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Ford's 1971 Convertible Coupe debuted as the first ragtop in the widely celebrated LTD series. Discover additional images of this timeless automobile.The 1971 Ford LTD Convertible Coupe marked both the beginning and near-end of an era for the iconic automaker, standing as a rare and memorable model.
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Introduced in 1965, the LTD brought a touch of luxury to Ford's full-size vehicles, typically reserved for more expensive brands. This affordability made it irresistible to budget-conscious buyers, and by the late 1960s, the LTD was rivaling the Galaxie 500 in sales dominance. The 1970 expansion of the lineup, including the upscale Brougham models, further solidified its appeal.
By 1971, the popularity of convertibles was declining, making this classic car's production run brief.Initially limited to a few hardtop versions, the LTD lineup expanded to include a four-door sedan and incorporated the Country Squire station wagon. However, it wasn't until 1971 that a convertible was introduced. In 1970, Ford's only large convertible was part of the XL series, which marked the end of the division's full-size sports models. Despite the general decline in convertible demand, Ford retained the ragtop and upgraded it to the LTD series.
The 1971 model year brought a complete redesign for full-size Fords. The design featured a bold vertical grille inspired by the 1969-1970 LTDs and XLs. Headlights were exposed but nestled in deep recesses on either side of the central grille. The domed hood's trailing edge now hid the windshield wipers. Side profiles showcased two creases that emerged from the edges of the car and tapered toward the center. The rear featured a large recessed panel under the trunklid housing the taillights, which were a three-part design on LTDs and Broughams. The interior introduced a redesigned, flatter dashboard.
The dashboard was redesigned to be flatter and more modern compared to earlier models.The wheelbase remained unchanged at 121 inches, consistent since 1969, but the front and rear tracks were slightly widened. A power ventilation system became standard. Safety concerns were addressed with the addition of built-in steel "Guard Rails" inside each door.
All carryover engines in big Fords, except for the two optional 429-cid V-8s, saw a 10 bhp reduction compared to 1970. The standard engine in LTDs was a 351-cid V-8 paired with a three-speed manual transmission. Optional V-8s included the long-standing 390-cid, a new 400-cid engine, and the 429s. Most LTDs and Broughams were equipped with the SelectShift Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission.
This 1971 LTD Convertible is one of only 5,750 units produced that year.Standard features on the LTD included power front disc brakes, a self-regulating clock, and woodgrain interior accents. The convertible model added vinyl upholstery and a five-ply vinyl power top, available in white or black, featuring a tempered glass rear window. The starting price for the soft-top version was $4,094.
Vinyl interiors were among the standard offerings for the LTD.The 1971 LTD convertible owned by David and Karen Erschen from Pontiac, Illinois, has logged over 113,000 miles but remains entirely original. The pale green ragtop has undergone repainting of the body and engine compartment, along with rechromed bumpers, while retaining all its original components.
The LTD Convertible was equipped with a 400 V-8 engine featuring a two-barrel carburetor.Under the hood, a 260-bhp 400 V-8 engine with a two-barrel carburetor delivered power. This engine required the Cruise-O-Matic transmission. Additional features included power steering, a power-adjustable front seat, AM/FM stereo, air conditioning, cornering lamps, and premium wheel covers.
The Erschen's LTD is one of only 5,750 convertibles produced in 1971. Following the production of 4,234 units in 1972, Ford discontinued the LTD's brief foray into open-top vehicles.
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