Was is it about the Thunderbird you're after, tone or looks?
If it's the whole image then as you were. But if it's just the tone then how about the Epiphone Embassy?
From what I understand the pickups and electrics are the same as the vintage pro Thunderbird, and in a very similar position, bridge PU looks identical, neck PU looks to be slightly further neckwards than the Thunderbird.
I haven't weighed mine but I think they're lighter than the Thunderbird.
Maybe worth a look?.