Packed with new parts and rebuilt components, then sold for health reasons before the job was completed, this 1970 Ford Torino GT is a sad testament to the rigors of restoration. It’s not unusual to spend years of your time and scads of your dollars, bringing a car back to glory. The result can be worth it, but for this Torino, listed here on eBay, the satisfaction is delayed while the car awaits a new enthusiast to tackle its cosmetics. Bid to $7o99, reserve not met, and located in Rochester, Washington, this Torino does start and run, but there’s a caveat….
The VIN indicates that the original engine was a 302 cu. in. V8, but we have no idea if the 302 currently in residence comes from the correct era. The seller notes that the differential, engine, and automatic transmission were rebuilt within the last 200 miles, though that must have been months or even years ago, judging by the grimy appearance and corrosion shown in other photos. New parts include a high-capacity aluminum radiator and transmission cooler, Edelbrock carb, new shocks, new steering components, new brakes, and a new exhaust system from the headers back. The radiator shroud is cracked, and though the car will run, the seller reports that the valve train is noisy.
The upholstery is decent, though dirty, but gauges are missing, and the driver’s footwell reveals a measure of rust. Speaking of rust, there’s more, here near the left rear wheel well. The seller notes that the door hinges need new pins at the very least, and someone installed a hood with scoops from a red car – the scoops were mostly nonfunctional but could be ordered with most Torinos, and they look cool. Happily, the original owner’s card comes with the sale.
The underside is another exhibition of old and new, with copious surface rust showing next to freshly installed parts. The Torino was historically overshadowed by the Mustang and competitive offerings from Chevy, but that only makes today’s prices seem slightly reasonable as everyone chases more popular cars. Still, prices have been trending up over the last five years. Nice examples equipped with the base 302 will run mid-$20k; the beastly 429 Cobra Jet is far more expensive. So many Torinos have seen their original specifications changed, and still others have been hot-rodded – the market is a case of “find what you like and bargain for the best price you can”. This example will need plenty of work to achieve even “good” quality; what do you think it’s worth?
I love Torinos tho a devote Mustang Man. Having said that, Torino was Motor Trend’s Car of the Year in 1970 also. Whole lotta ?’s with this one tho, even with the 302 being a proven stalwart engine, having issues.
302, bench seat, column shifter, no concealed headlights, no lazer stripes, has to be the most basic GT on the planet. Looks like the mechanicals are done, on with the cosmetics. Seller doesn’t say the valve train is noisy, he says there’s a slight tapping during start up, probably a lifter bleeding down. If a crusty Charger is worth 25grand, this is certainly worth something. Great looking cars, the competition had nothing on a Torino
The competition had nothing on a Torino? Come on get real!
I’m very real
Obviously a chevy guy. Loosen your bowtie, it’s too tight.
It’s valvetrain, not valve train, compound words are still okay to use despite what AutoCorrect says.
*valvetrain lol
Some interior and body work 8K and it is a nice car, engine could be in need of head work 2K, worth 8 K as it sits.
Nice Torino. One would want to inspect in person before a buy but this looks like a lot of Ford potential. Ready for a rebuilt 351w maybe?
351c
I had a 1970 Fairlane with the 351C in it. From the factory. I’m still kicking myself for getting rid of that car.
Yblocker I’d be fine with a warmed over Windsor. I know the difference.
Metallic Grey & Green with a Giant fist on the side & HULK SMASH.
Resto-mod huge engine giant meats on the rear & a Green Metallic engine bay with all green wiring & all the components powder coated Green.
Of course the obligatory Green 250 NOS shot EFI set up etc.
Rip out that bench & interior a Green & Grey Hulk bucket seats & Green “Gamma ray Lazer” lighting.
Betty Page “Hulk Smash” in the passengers seat.
Get real? Seriously? The ’70 Torino GT that I used to own had a 428 SCJ under the hood, a wide ratio top loader 4 speed, & a 411 posi rear, 9″. 1/4 mile straight line dragging, hooked up to a fifth wheel= 178 mph & the front wheels hardly touched! Only little boys play with bow ties!
Pretty sure Ford never put a 428 in a 70 Torino, 68-69, yes, 70-71 would’ve been a 429. Love your enthusiasm though