Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for naturally aspirated, higher octane recommended for supercharged)
Engine Codes
V6 Engine Code:
3.8L OHV: 'E' (standard), '4' (supercharged)
V8 Engine Code:
4.6L SOHC: 'W'
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic
Standard Transmission Model:
AXOD-E (Electronic Control) / AX4N
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (available on some SC models)
Optional Transmission Model:
Tremec TR-3030 (TF)
Features
Transmission Features:
Overdrive gears, electronic control for smooth shifts, selectable drive modes (e.g., Normal/Sport)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Inches:
114.0
Overall Length Inches:
197.5
Overall Width Inches:
73.1
Overall Height Inches:
53.2
Front Track Inches:
60.5
Rear Track Inches:
59.2
Weights
Curb Weight Lbs:
3400 - 3800 (depending on engine and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:
4500 - 4700 (approximate)
Towing Capacity Lbs:
Not typically specified or recommended for this vehicle class
Wheels And Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Standard Wheel Size:
16-inch alloy
Standard Tire Size:
P205/60R16 (varies by trim)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Rating Driver:
3-star (1994 model year, typical for era)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Rating Passenger:
3-star (1994 model year, typical for era)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most models, Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point active seatbelts, rear 3-point seatbelts
Headrests:
Adjustable front and rear headrests
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard in 1994; typically relies on seatbelt installation
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player
Speaker Configuration:
4-speaker or 6-speaker premium sound system (optional)
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Connectivity
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors
Comfort Features
Climate Control Type:
Manual climate control, optional automatic climate control
Seats:
Cloth or leather upholstery, power adjustable driver's seat (optional)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Miles:
3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months (under normal conditions)
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ certified, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for exact specification based on climate)
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
4.0 (3.8L V6), 5.0 (4.6L V8) - excluding filter
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Coolant Capacity Quarts:
12.0 - 13.0 (approximate, varies by engine)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon V Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 3.5 (drain and fill), 11.5 (total capacity)
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Serpentine Belt Inspection Miles:
30,000 miles (or as needed)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially 3.8L V6), transmission control issues, suspension component wear (ball joints, bushings), potential for electrical gremlins, intake manifold gasket leaks (4.6L V8)
Supercharger Specific Issues:
Supercharger belt wear, intercooler issues (SC model)
Technical Specifications
Idle Speed Rpm:
600-750 (varies by engine, check manual)
Ignition Timing:
Electronically controlled, refer to manual for base timing settings if applicable
Wheel Alignment Specs:
Camber, Caster, Toe specifications provided in manual for front and rear
Tire Pressure Psi:
Typically 30-32 PSI (check driver's door jamb sticker)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Ford Brand Legacy:
Ford Motor Company, a major American automotive manufacturer with a long history of innovation and popular vehicles.
Model Evolution
Thunderbird Lineage:
The Thunderbird nameplate has a storied history dating back to 1955, evolving through numerous designs and market segments.
Ninth Generation Introduction:
The ninth generation (MN12 platform) was introduced for the 1989 model year, marking a significant departure with its focus on aerodynamics and sportiness.
1994 Model Year Updates:
Minor styling tweaks, potential powertrain refinements, and feature updates over earlier MN12 models.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Lorain, Ohio, USA
Production Years Ninth Gen:
1989-1997
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journal Awards:
While specific awards for the 1994 model are not widely publicized, the MN12 platform generally received praise for its handling and ride quality compared to previous generations.
Performance Reviews:
The SC model, in particular, was often cited for its strong performance and sporty demeanor.