• During the 1970s Ford started producing family-oriented and fuel-efficient vehicles as an answer to changing customer tastes and new federal emission laws. Despite the drawbacks that the auto industry faced during that decade, Ford focused on releasing models that were both functional and comfortable. Most Ford muscle cars were downsized and were given specific target markets that eventually paved the way to a variety of models that Ford consumers enjoy today.
  
  

LTD

• The Ford LTD was introduced to the market in 1966 as a full-size car and continued production until 1986. The 1970s models are part of its third generation, which had three models--a four-door sedan, a two-door coupe and a four-door station wagon. The powertrain ranges from the 302 CID V-8 engine up to the 460 CID V-8 engine, depending on the model. Despite issues with its fuel efficiency, LTD sales during the 1970s still remained strong because of its size, pricing and features. Standard features include power steering, power front disc brakes, ventilation and vinyl upholstery. Prices for a 1970s LTD today ranges from $1,000 to $6,000 as of 2010, depending on the model year, trim and condition.
  
  

Thunderbird

• The Thunderbird was launched in 1955. The latest version was only discontinued in 2005. It was marketed as a two-door personal luxury car that seats two passengers. The sixth generation was released between 1972 and 1976, while the seventh generation was released from 1977 to 1979. Starting in 1977, the Thunderbird was downsized to give way for better fuel efficiency. The 1979 Thunderbird base model was equipped with a 5.0 L 302 CID V-8 engine, while a 5.8 L 351 CID V-8 engine was available as an upgrade. It was also offered with several types of interior design that ranged from cloth seating to full leather interior. A 1979 Thunderbird costs around $5,000 to $40,000 as of 2010, depending on the model and condition of the vehicle.
  
  

Mustang

• The Ford Mustang was introduced in 1965 and is still offered today. Most Mustangs from the 1970s are part of its second generation that was made from 1974 to 1978. In 1979, Ford released the Mustang on its third generation and models included a coupe and a hatchback. The powertrain ranged from the 88 horsepower 2.3 L in-line 4 engine to a 140 horsepower 5.0 L V-8 engine. A four-speed manual transmission comes standard, while a three-speed automatic transmission was an option. A third-generation Mustang is around $6,000 as of 2010, depending on the model, trim and vehicle condition.