2002 Ford Thunderbird MPG & Specs — Real Fuel Cost
Quick answer
The 2002 Ford Thunderbird gets an EPA-estimated 15/22 MPG (city/highway) and 17 MPG combined, with an estimated $4,450/year fuel cost and 522.765 g/mi CO₂. Engine: 3.9 L 8-cyl.
The 2002 Ford Thunderbird with the 3.9-liter 8-cylinder premium gasoline engine returns an EPA-estimated 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway, for a combined 17 MPG. This page summarizes the official EPA fuel-economy and emissions data for this configuration.
| Engine | 3.9 L 8-cyl |
| Transmission | Automatic 5-spd |
| Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel type | Premium Gasoline |
| Vehicle class | Two Seaters |
| MPG — city | 15 |
| MPG — highway | 22 |
| MPG — combined | 17 |
| Annual fuel cost* | $4,450 |
| CO₂ tailpipe | 522.765 g/mi |
| EPA GHG score | — |
How efficient is it?
With a combined 17 MPG, the 2002 Ford Thunderbird sits in the low range for fuel economy. That is roughly 16% thirstier than the typical Two Seaters of its era (20 MPG class average) — expect higher fuel bills than class-average alternatives.
Fuel economy and running costs
At about $4,450 per year in fuel (EPA estimate, 15,000 mi/yr), fuel is a major part of the cost of owning the 2002 Ford Thunderbird. Over five years that is roughly $22,250 at today's prices — before insurance, maintenance, and depreciation.
Emissions
The 2002 Ford Thunderbird emits approximately 522.765 grams of CO₂ per mile at the tailpipe. Lower emissions generally track higher fuel economy.
How to read these numbers
EPA figures come from standardized laboratory test cycles and are the same estimates shown on the vehicle's window sticker. Your real-world mileage depends on driving style, conditions, fuel grade, and maintenance. Use combined MPG and annual fuel cost to compare vehicles fairly.