Into the sunset // Grab these models before they're gone

This is the time to consider grabbing desirable 1997 cars thatwill be dropped or given major changes for the 1998 model year, whichbegins Oct. 1.

For instance, the Ford Thunderbird coupe is being discontinuedat model year's end and doesn't return until 2001, when it becomes asporty convertible.

A new Mazda Miata arrives for the first time since the car's1989 debut, but the sporty Ford Probe is being dropped forever. TheMercury Cougar goes away for just one model year - returning as asmaller, sporty coupe that also will be sold in Europe innear-identical form.Cars undergoing significant changes for 1998 include the hotHonda Accord. The Geo Prizm returns for the …