The Ford Torino is a classic muscle car produced from 1968 to 1976. It is a popular car today, and it remains a sought-after collector’s item today. The Ford Torino, named after the city of Turin, boasts perfect aerodynamics for smooth tracks. Ford is synonymous with a massive slanted lid and a vast glass window, earning it the nickname ‘steel boat.’
Historically, the 1969 model was produced in limited quantities, with only 215 units made. While most Torinos were conventional, featuring four-door sedans and two-door hardtops, owning a Ford Torino or Ford Torino GT guarantees turning heads on the road. Maintaining this automotive gem ensures it continues to captivate attention, showcasing Ford’s excellence in engineering solutions.
If you are thinking of buying a Ford Torino, this article discusses what you need to know about the Ford Torino’s price, features, and reviews.
Ford Torino Overview
The Ford Torino, a notable automobile in Ford’s history, was manufactured for the North American market from 1968 to 1976. Competing in the intermediate market segment, it was closely related to the Mercury Montego line.
Originally an upscale version of the Ford Fairlane, the Torino became the primary name for Ford’s intermediate lineup in 1970, replacing the Fairlane entirely in 1971. While popular models included four-door sedans and two-door hardtops, Ford also introduced high-performance “muscle car” versions with potent engines like the 428 cu in (7.0 L) and 429 cu in (7.0 L) “Cobra-Jet” engines.
With a successful racing heritage in NASCAR, the Torino solidified its place in automotive history. Established in 1903 by Henry Ford, the Ford Motor Company pioneered large-scale assembly line production, becoming a leading global automotive brand known for its influence, profitability, and historical significance in the industry. Today, Ford stands among the world’s largest car manufacturers.
Ford Torino Key Features
- Engine: 351-4V rated at 285 hp (213 kW)
- Transmission: 4-speed manual with a Hurst shifter
- Tires: F70-14
- Design elements: Cobra emblems, competition suspension, hub caps
- Styling: Blacked-out grille
Ford Torino Design
Ford Torino Exterior:
1969 Model:
- Prominent center dividing bar.
- Aluminum dividing bar across the rear panel.
- Few styling modifications; the overall appearance remained similar.
1970 Model:
- More noticeable extended hood and short deck design.
- Longer, lower, and broader than the previous model.
- Lower and less prescribed roofline.
2018 Model:
- Attractive exterior with massive lines and a sports car look.
- Huge bumper with a perfect combination of short and long strips.
Ford Torino Interior:
1969 Model:
Essential features and functions in the central core, transmission, and melodies.
1970 Model:
All-new interiors with a chic linear speedometer and a “ribbon” style tachometer for V8 models.
High back bucket seats.
2018 Model:
Simple yet engaging interior with vital features for a pleasurable driving experience.
Ford Torino GT (1968):
- Market prices for 1968 Torino GT:
- $2,772 – hardtop
- $2,747 – fastback
- $3,001 – convertible
- Powered by a 4.7L V8 engine, offering 195 horsepower.
- Exotic features include attention-grabbing wheel covers, stylish exterior trim, and modish door panel lamps.
- Excellent road grip with classic brakes.
Note: The Ford Torino GT has been featured in Gran Torino, contributing to its nickname. The drivetrain is known for its durability, but buyers should be mindful of normal wear and tear, especially in older models.
Ford Torino Engine Specifications
1969 Ford Torino:
- Redesigned engine options for 1969 models.
- Standard larger 250 cu in I-6 engine for most prototypes.
- Optional engines included 302 cu in 4.9 L -2V (standard on GTs), 428 cu in (7.0 L)-4V Cobra Jet (standard on Cobras).
- The 428 CJ came with or without a Ram Air Induction set.
- Features for 428 CJ without Ram Air included an 80-ampere durable battery, 3.25:1 open differential, durable cooling set, 55-ampere alternator, chrome valve concealments, and twin exhaust.
1970 Ford Torino:
- Significant changes in the engine lineup.
- The typical engine for most models was the 250 CID I-6.
- Optional engines included 302-2V, 351W-2V, and the new 351 Cleveland.
- Ram Air induction is optional on certain models.
- Ram Air did not affect advertised power ratings.
- The Ram Air option featured a “shaker hood” and was available for 351C-4V, 429 CJ, and 429 SCJ.
- Cruise-O-Matic transmission is optional for all engines; 4-speed transmission is offered on all engines except two.
2018 Ford Torino:
- The 2018 model introduced a 2.3-liter engine with Ecoboost technology.
- An alternative 2.7-liter engine with additional features was also available.
- The engines provided a powerful and distinctive driving experience.
Ford Torino Price
The Ford Torino, produced by Ford for North America from 1968 to 1976, competed in the intermediate market and was essentially a twin to the Mercury Montego line.
- 1972 Ford Torino · $8,500.00
- 1970 Ford Torino · $19,200.00
- 1971 Ford Torino · $3,000.00
- 1968 Ford Torino · $2,500.00
- 1969 Ford Torino · $7,500.00.
Ford Torino Review
A fun car I’ve loved since 1976. Powered by a 351C 4V and a Hurst shifter, it delivers good performance. Stopping, thanks to large drum brakes, is reasonable for its time. Comfortably accommodating five adults with ample legroom, it boasts a smooth ride and handles corners well for its age. (Jan 26, 2015)
My first performance car, loved by all. A great car that reliably got me to work. Red with a black vinyl top, black cloth interior, and an automatic transmission. It struggled in winter, facing the 1976 to 1978 blizzard.
| Pros | Cons |
| Agile and quite fast | Poor gas mileage |
| Comfortable seats | Not best for driving in snow |
| Provides sporty fun | Paint color needs innovation |
| Fun to drive | Lack of spare parts |
| It looks like a muscle car | |
| Easy maintenance |
Ford Torino Summary In Short
Ford Torino Highlights:
- Iconic image associated with fathers and grandfathers’ cars.
- Named after Turin, the city in Italian (Torino).
- Recognized for perfect aerodynamics and nicknamed ‘steel boat.’
- Limited production of the 1969 model with only 215 units.
- Ford Torino and Torino GT turn heads on the road.
- Captivates attention, showcasing Ford’s engineering excellence.
Ford Torino Overview:
- Produced by Ford for North America from 1968 to 1976.
- Competed in the intermediate market, a twin to the Mercury Montego line.
- Originally an upscale version of the Ford Fairlane.
- Primary name for Ford’s intermediate lineup from 1970, replacing Fairlane in 1971.
- Introduced high-performance “muscle car” versions.
- Successful racing heritage in NASCAR.
- Founded in 1903 by Henry Ford, Ford Motor Company revolutionized assembly line production.
- Among the world’s largest car manufacturers today.
Ford Torino Key Features:
- Engine: 351-4V rated at 285 hp (213 kW).
- Transmission: 4-speed manual with a Hurst shifter.
- Tires: F70-14.
- Design elements: Cobra emblems, competition suspension, hub caps.
- Styling: Blacked-out grille.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
How much does the Ford Torino cost?
The average cost of a Ford Torino is around $51,122.82, showing a 6.5% increase from last year.
How many Ford Torinos were made?
Including Fairlane production, 371,787 cars were produced. The Torino received positive reviews from the automotive press, and a 1968 Torino GT convertible was chosen as the pace car for the 1968 Indianapolis 500.
Who designed the Ford Torino?
The Ford Torino was designed by William B. Shenk, who joined Ford Motor Company’s design studio in 1962 after graduating from the Art Center School in Los Angeles. Shenk’s design credits also include the aero styling update to the 1987 Ford Mustang and the exterior design for the 1987 Mercury Cougar XR-7.
What does GT mean in the Ford Torino GT?
The “GT” in the Ford Torino GT stands for Grand Touring. Initially, it had a specific definition, highlighting performance and luxurious comfort. Originally coined by an Italian automaker, the term meant a car should excel in performance while offering a lavish interior. However, over time, the GT designation became somewhat diluted as it began to be widely applied, losing some of its original significance.
The Bottom Line
The Ford Torino, with two million units built in less than a decade, stands as an iconic rarity. Its regular presence in movies and screens adds to its legendary level. Famous for customization possibilities, a simple paint job or suspension tweak can transform it into a dream ride. Beyond its attractive and comfortable interior, the Torino boasts perfect aerodynamics, delivering outstanding sports car sound on the road.
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