Surprisingly Rare Ford Torino GT Emerges With Mysterious Engine, 1 of Only 2

3 months, 2 weeks ago - 4 September 2024, autoevolution
1970 Ford Torino GT
1970 Ford Torino GT
If you're in the market looking for a rare car, this Torino GT has all the reasons in the world to at least be worth checking out.

I won't comment much on its condition because anyone can inspect the photos and see the work that must be done to save this 1970 Torino GT, including the floors and the other rusty parts, so let's focus on the rest of the details.

The interior needs a refresh. The top must be replaced, and the rear seat is missing. The door panels and dashboard also require some attention.

The car's engine is as mysterious as possible. It's still a 390 FE unit—similar to the one that came with the Torino GT—but it's unclear if this is original to the car. eBay seller 429twister says they did not check if the numbers match, but they claim the V8 has never been torn apart or started. Its condition is unknown, so you'll want to have the under-the-hood part thoroughly inspected before making an offer.

The best part of this Torino GT is how rare it is.

The Marti report, which you can read in full in the photo gallery, confirms that this Torino GT was born at the Lorain assembly plant. However, what sets it apart is the special paint, as the Marti report indicates that only 21 Torino GTs received this treatment before rolling off the assembly lines.

Ford produced approximately 1,000 Torino GTs with a white power top and glass backlite, but the paint makes it truly special. Furthermore, only 2 left the factory with the same paint and trim codes, so if you don't get this example, you'll only find one more Torino GT like it.

On the other hand, Ford also produced 55 more Torino GTs with the same engine and transmission codes, so if you're not necessarily interested in the paint, you should still be able to find a similar sibling.

Restoring this Torino GT shouldn't be difficult, especially because most parts are still available, but it's clear it's not a typical project for the average Joe. The engine requires particular attention, so you should find a good mechanic and inspect everything under the hood before making an offer. However, the whole car needs a thorough check or a third-party inspection, so contact the seller and discuss all the details first.

One of the biggest problems is the selling price. As anyone can expect, a rare Torino GT can't sell cheaply, and this example makes no exception. The seller hopes to get $10,500 for this car, and the price is firm, so you can only make offers after contacting them for more details. The car is parked in McPherson, Kansas, and you will need a trailer to take it home. 

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