Big news awaited Ford Fairlane buyers in 1968, as not only did the intermediate get a complete redesign, but a new and more upscale offering was also added to the lineup, known as the Torino.  The higher luxury moniker was available in both two and four-door models, plus a station wagon, as these were popular family travelers for the period.  This 1969 Ford Torino Squire here on eBay is presently in Warwick, Rhode Island, after the seller had it shipped to Little Rhodie all the way from California.  However, with what’s under the hood, driving the woodie wagon would have probably proven a more rewarding experience for covering such a long coast-to-coast distance.  The owner has set his buy-it-now price at $10,999, but he’s also willing to negotiate, as a make offer button is also included.

As with many autos back in the day, a fine selection of engine choices was available for the 1969 Torino Squire, including a 4-barrel version of the 390, which is what can be found under the hood here.  Factory rated at 320 horsepower, this is one potent station wagon, and sort of a rarity as the Marti report indicates that just 319 were produced with this engine and transmission combo.  The seller says he just added a new Holley 650 cfm carburetor, replaced the battery, and performed a tune-up with fresh items such as spark plugs, a distributor cap, points, wires, and a rotor.  The big engine is said to start a bit roughly, but after a minute, it’s described as running like a top.

With the climate differences of Cali and RI, I’m guessing there aren’t too many vehicles in the latter state that show this sort of patina, although most of the body is claimed to remain solid.  Some rust is mentioned above the firewall and in the cowl area, but the owner says everything else we see is on the surface.  It looks like the section of woodgrain has been replaced in the driver’s side quarter, as this material appears different from the rest, but a few pieces of new-old-stock are also included in the sale.  It’s going to be a tough decision for the next owner to choose whether to make a few body repairs and spray on a shiny new coat of paint immediately, or wait a while and just enjoy driving around in this one as it appears right now.

Considering how baked the finish on the hood appears, many of the interior components don’t seem quite as well-done, although the top of the dash and steering wheel look like they’ve spent a few decades tanning in the sun.  The front bench isn’t perfect, but probably OK for just an occasional cruiser, though the rear seat seems considerably better.  However, moving even further back, the plastic side panels in the cargo area have surely seen better days.  While the inside and outside are what I’d consider about average, the real beauty here is the powerplant, and I can see that 390 pushing the desirability of this 1969 Ford Torino Squire way up.  What are your thoughts on this old-school station wagon?