Based on the fact Ford deemed it a "new category of automobile", it appears they were rather proud of their redesigned 1987 Thunderbird Turbo Coupe. A power boosting intercooler and "a computer controlled suspension" (complete with idiot light) were added to the quirky four cylinder Turbo Coupe among other updates and improvements. Shown here in a very 80s advertisement, it was clear both Ford and whoever narrated this advertisement were very serious about the new Turbo Coupe.
In 1987 Ford introduced the redesigned and thoroughly beyond categorization Thunderbird Turbo Coupe seen here. Equipped with a five speed manual, the Turbo Coupe produced 190 horsepower from its intercooled 2.3 liter inline four engine. Ford offered an optional automatic transmission but it required the Turbo Coupe to be detuned (less boost) in the interest of protecting the transmission. We are amazed any Turbo Coupe buyers were able to refuse the attractive proposition of less power and an automatic.
Rather than fall into any existing category, the Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe decided to create its own. Although Ford probably didn't refer to that category as "interesting turbo sport coupes built for 1987 that weren't as good as the Buick Grand National even though they were more agile and came with a standard five speed transmission" we think they probably should have considered it.