The seller claims this 1973 Ford Gran Torino Sport is an original survivor. If that proves true, many enthusiasts would consider its condition well above average. Adding to its appeal, it features one of the most desirable drivetrain combinations offered by the company in that model year. After two years of utilizing this classic for car shows and weekend outings, they feel the time is right for it to find a new home. They have listed the Gran Torino here on eBay in Dickinson, Texas. The bidding has raced to $9,100, although it is yet to reach the reserve.

The seller purchased this Gran Torino around two years ago, and it has received limited use since. It mainly hits the road for the occasional weekend outing or trip to a car show but remains squirreled away when not in use. They describe the car as original, suggesting it has never undergone any form of restoration. If this is accurate, its Code 9A White paint is impressive. It wears a few minor marks and imperfections but retains a winning shine and the ability to receive favorable comments. The story is the same with the panels. There are some small blemishes, but nothing demanding immediate attention. However, that brings us to the subject of rust, which can be a touchy topic. Torinos of this vintage developed a reputation for significant rust problems, with many succumbing to the ravages of tin worm. This Fastback hasn’t suffered that fate, and its dry location has undoubtedly helped its cause. The panels are clean, and the underside shots reveal nothing beyond surface corrosion. Having said that, I would treat the corrosion to prevent further deterioration if I found this classic in my garage. The exterior trim is in good order, and I can’t spot any problems with the glass.

If this Gran Torino has a potential highlight, that honor may fall to its interior. Its overall presentation in Beige vinyl is impressive. While the seller stresses the car’s originality, I feel the interior may have received some attention. There is absolutely no wear on any upholstered surfaces, while the carpet and headliner are in as-new condition. Maybe I’m being suspicious, but the overall condition is well above what you might expect in a survivor of this vintage. However, examining this interior shot reveals what appears to be some wrinkles in the dash pad. It may be a trick of the light, but it looks like a pad that wears an aftermarket cap cover. The wheel is a later addition, but I can’t spot any other changes. It isn’t loaded with luxury features, but the factory air conditioning and AM radio should make life on the road a pleasant experience.

Powering this Gran Torino is the Q-Code 351ci V8 producing 246hp and 312 ft/lbs of torque. That power feeds to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission, while the original owner specified power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes. Tightening emission regulations may have taken a big bite out of engine powers and performance figures by 1973, but this car should still romp through the ¼ mile in 15.3 seconds before winding its way to 127mph. The engine bay presents well for its age, but the seller doesn’t indicate whether this classic is numbers-matching. They include a Marti Report confirming its specifications and say the Gran Torino runs and drives well. It sounds like the winning bidder will be able to fly in and drive home, giving them a chance to build a strong bond with their new purchase.

In 1973, Ford sold an impressive 496,581 Torinos to eager buyers. Of those, 51,853 people handed their Ford dealer the additional cash for a Gran Torino Sport Fastback. Today, the Fastback remains the most desirable variant in the ’73 Gran Torino range. Rust problems took a toll on these classics, but if an original and unrestored example has survived for nearly five decades without a problem, it must be a real beauty. That appears to be the case with our feature car, and the eighteen bids submitted so far suggest that people like what they see. Its drivetrain combination helps its cause, and I believe the bidding may have to top $15,000 before surpassing the reserve. Do you agree, or do you have another figure in mind?