1-of-1: 1970 Ford Torino GT Convertible 351/4-Speed

This 1970 Ford Torino GT Convertible demonstrates that outright performance and top-down touring aren’t mutually exclusive. It makes a positive first impression, though a close inspection reveals a few faults that the buyer should address fairly quickly. However, none are bad enough to require immediate attention, allowing the new owner to enjoy the Torino for the remaining summer months. What makes this Torino genuinely interesting is the seller’s claim that its combination of options makes it a genuine 1-of-1 vehicle. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the GT listed here on eBay in Florida, New York. The seller set their price for this potent classic at $35,000 OBO.

Released in 1970, Ford’s Second Generation Torino remained on sale for only two years. This first-year example is a GT Convertible. It presents nicely in Blue Metallic, with only a few minor cosmetic flaws. The power top in contrasting White fits as tight as a drum, and the graphics are crisp and clear. The front spoiler adds a sense of purpose, and the Magnum 500 wheels are excellent. So far, this Torino seems to make a positive first impression. However, digging deeper reveals a few potential problems. The rust in the lower front fender on the driver’s side isn’t a huge concern, and the buyer could eliminate it with a well-crafted patch. More troubling is what appears to be developing rust along the rocker’s lower pinch seam, visible in this shot. If it genuinely is what it appears to be, the seam would need to be opened, and it may require an entire rocker replacement to eliminate the problem effectively. The underside shows evidence of surface corrosion, but no further signs of penetrating rust.

Ford offered 1970 Torino GT buyers some pretty potent engine options, but this car’s first owner walked the middle ground by specifying the four-barrel version of the 351ci V8. The factory quoted power and torque figures of 300hp and 380 ft/lbs, which this car effectively delivers to Planet Earth via a four-speed close-ratio manual transmission and 3.00 Traction-Lok rear end. Adding the power steering and power front disc brakes ensures that the Torino provides an effortless driving experience. Its acceleration should be mighty impressive, but the rear-end ratio should make this classic an excellent open-road cruiser. The seller states that the engine was rebuilt in 1999 and has only clocked around 18,000 miles since the work ended. They recently fitted a new Edelbrock carburetor, plugs, wires, and electronic ignition. They flushed the cooling system before fitting new belts, hoses, a thermostat, oil, and a filter. The GT is a turnkey proposition, allowing the buyer to fly in and drive it home.

The interior helps this Torino to achieve the “wow” factor. Trimmed in Parchment vinyl, it features air conditioning, power windows, a rimblow wheel, a factory tachometer, bucket seats, and a console. The seller indicates that while the A/C system is complete, it doesn’t blow cold. The remaining features work as they should. Pale vinyl trim is prone to getting dirty and yellowing, but this Convertible shows no such issues. There is no wear, evidence of abuse or neglect, and no crumbling plastic. The seller states that the Marti Report confirms that the first owner ordered the car with an AM/FM stereo radio. However, it has disappeared, with its rightful spot concealed behind a blanking plate.

This 1970 Ford Torino GT Convertible is an attractive classic, and its specifications should provide excellent performance. The rust visible in the listing images, especially that appearing to develop on the rocker, is a concern. That could potentially become nasty if not addressed fairly soon. The car is far from a lost cause, and returning it to a rust-free state would be a rewarding winter project. I feel that the price might be slightly optimistic, but life has taught me that if you don’t ask, you don’t get. Some potential buyers might focus on the car’s supposedly unique status, although they would need to study the Marti Report to determine whether it is a factor that could increase its value. The listing statistics are pretty healthy, but do you believe they will translate into sales success? I will be interested to discover what you might pay for this Torino.