I think the mentality behind a 4x4 is sound. To counter your roadspeed argument, not only can today's 4x4 vehicles reach standard highway speeds they often also have 2H and A4WD (2 wheel and automatic 4x4). On top of that, I've seen Katrina and numerous earthquake and hurricane newscasts where massive interstate traffic jams are the norm. That's even with all lanes going outbound during the emergency.

Having a 4x4 to take you on roads less traveled in order to bypass some of that exiting traffic is a great Idea. I don't know that I would want to haul a trailer on really nasty backroads, but it might be possible. In that case I think I'd also want a PTO for real off-road work. In a worst case scenario, should you need to abandon a trailer (on or off road), you'll be able to transfer far more intp a 4x4 SUV type vehicle.

Anyway, your T-Bird might be nice for cruising down the road. I just hope you vacate the area before the highway slows to a crawl. I guess it all boils down to utility and planning. If you have your exit strategy planned and have multiple eventualities covered then you may not need the utility of 4x4. I drive my Chevy Trailblazer pretty much daily and it's a nice ride. I've taken it offroad, but it's not really hardened for rock climbing or anything like that. Still, it has no problems in muddy unpaved terrain.

To each his own, and I'll go with the extra options that 4x4 bring me.