So, you’ve got a reasonable stash of cash burning a hole in your pocket, and you’re in the market for a classic bearing the blue-oval badge. What do you do? Some people may look favorably upon a First Generation Mustang, but why not a 1971 Torino GT? This one presents superbly courtesy of a fresh paint job, while the upgraded V8 under the hood should supply enough power to satisfy most enthusiasts. With the hard work completed, the next journey for this Torino will be to a new home. So far, it looks like a winning combination worthy of closer examination. Located in Bennett, Colorado, the owner has listed the GT for sale here on Craigslist. They have set a sale price of $39,995, and when you consider what is offered, the price looks pretty tempting. I have to say a big thank you to Barn Finder Gunter K for spotting this beauty for us.

The Second Generation Torino broke cover in 1970 and remained in production for a mere two years. Its styling was different from its predecessor, forsaking squarer lines in favor of the prevailing “Coke bottle” look. It proved a hit with potential buyers, with 588,812 Torinos across all models finding their way to new homes in 1971. There’s a lot for potential buyers to consider with this Torino, and most of it surrounds positive news. The car presents superbly in Code 3 Bright Red. This is hardly surprising since barely two months have elapsed since the vehicle emerged from the paint shop after a cosmetic refresh. The shop applied paint to the panels, the door jambs, and inside the trunk. It shines magnificently, without a flaw or blemish in sight. Once the paint had dried, a fresh set of laser stripes found their way onto the arrow-straight panels. Rust is not a consideration, with the car appearing spotless. The chrome and other trim pieces continue the theme of immaculate presentation, as does the glass. Rounding out the package is a set of Magnum 500 wheels that add further to this classic’s sense of presence.

When we open the Torino’s doors, we find a pretty nice interior. Upholstered in Black vinyl, the owner recently added new covers for the bucket seats and a new dash pad. This last item is significant because pads are particularly prone to UV deterioration. If I were to buy this car, I would prioritize adding a cover as a protective measure. I have one on my 26-year-old daily driver, and the pad looks as-new underneath. The remaining upholstery is original and is in good condition. If I wanted to pick faults, I would say that I’m disappointed by the fit of the new seatcovers. They seem to sag and wrinkle, suggesting the seller didn’t stretch them properly during installation. If I became the lucky next owner, that’s a fault I would address. The only other flaw of note is cracking on the wheel. It isn’t bad, and restoration may prove a more affordable option than sourcing a replacement wheel.

Did you say you craved power? Well, I’m sure this GT can accommodate that need. Its engine bay is occupied by a 429ci V8 that sends its power to the 9″ rear end via a C6 automatic transmission. If you haven’t received enough good news so far, I’m about to add more. This V8 has accumulated less than 1,000 miles since the owner treated it to a rebuild. This wasn’t simply a case of throwing in piston rings, bearings, and a few new gaskets. This monster has been built to Super Cobra Jet specifications, meaning the driver will have more than 375hp at their disposal. That should allow the GT to storm the ¼ mile in around 14.7 seconds, although a lower figure is possible. The mileage means the engine is barely broken in, but the seller says that the car runs and drives well. It is a turnkey proposition awaiting a new owner.

I’ve always found it fascinating that many enthusiasts focus more on First Generation Mustangs than the Torino GT when commencing their search for a classic Ford. When new, the sales figures between the GT and the performance Mustang derivatives were closer than some people might expect. In 1971, there were 31,641 buyers willing to hand over their cash for a Torino GT Hardtop, while the company produced 38,305 Mustangs in either Mach 1 or Boss 351 form. Statistically, that hands a win to the Mustang. The lighter Mustang, particularly a Mach 1 with a 429 Cobra Jet under the hood, could show the GT a clean set of heels in a straight line. However, the Torino GT holds one key advantage over its pony car sibling. If you are an enthusiast with children heading into their teens, you will know how legroom in any car can be a crucial consideration. The Mustang does okay on that front, but the larger Torino offers more room to move if your child is an aspiring basketballer. If you’re in that situation, this GT deserves a closer look.