Minute Performance Difference
I don't remember the exact figures, but my recollection is that the '03 was a few tenths of a second faster in 0-60 time. Since expressway travel only allows half-speed for the 147 mph top end of the '02, if I were making the decision, I'd base it on color rather than speed. Additionally if they ever become collectors items (which in time they probably will) the '02 would be of greater value. As the owner of an '02 now with about 32,000 unbelievably happy miles of driving (including one day of over 800 miles), I can unequivocably state that whatever way you go, if you're half as happy with the T-Bird as I am, you won't make a mistake.
Jim