Some classic cars are interesting because of their performance, while others stand out because of their history. This 1969 Ford Torino Talladega manages to offer both. Listed on craigslist in California’s Inland Empire, this Wimbledon White example is advertised as a remarkably original survivor with 53,000 documented miles, a numbers-matching 428 Cobra Jet V8, and an ownership history that includes the San Diego Auto Museum. Thanks for the tip, Rocco B.!
The Talladega was Ford’s answer to the increasingly competitive world of NASCAR aerodynamics, making it one of the more fascinating muscle cars of 1969. The seller describes this example as one of approximately 750 produced and says it retains its factory-original Wimbledon White paint. According to the listing, the car has been garaged since new, helping preserve the finish and interior without the sun damage often associated with older California vehicles. The seller purchased it approximately 20 years ago from the San Diego Auto Museum, when it was reportedly still a one-owner car.
The mileage history is particularly interesting. The seller says the Talladega was wearing tires installed in 1974, when it had accumulated approximately 36,000 miles. Receipts for those tires, along with additional paperwork, are said to support the current 53,000-mile reading. Inside, the seller describes the upholstery as excellent and original, with protective plastic still covering the rear seat and sun visors. Additional equipment includes under-dash gauges and an eight-track stereo, although the listing doesn’t specify when those accessories were installed.
Under the hood sits the numbers-matching 428 Cobra Jet V8, which the seller claims has never been internally disturbed. Apart from routine tune-up components, the engine is described as original, and the car reportedly retains the front H-pipe section of its factory exhaust system. An automatic transmission completes the drivetrain. Better still, the seller says the Talladega runs and drives exceptionally well, with strong power, tight steering, and no noticeable squeaks or rattles. Those are encouraging claims for a car whose appeal depends so heavily on its preserved condition.
Although craigslist displays a $1 asking price, that clearly isn’t the seller’s intended selling figure. The owner says the car was professionally appraised years ago at well over $100,000 and is entertaining serious offers, with possible trades in either direction. The listing also reports a clean title and excellent overall condition. For Ford enthusiasts, the combination of Talladega’s NASCAR connection, claimed original paint, documented mileage, and untouched Cobra Jet engine makes this an especially intriguing survivor.
All Talladegas were equipped with auto trans and front bench seat. I prefer my 68 Torino fastback with buckets. As cool as the Talladega is, it just looks a bit ungainly. But it is historic.
These were interesting cars.
Since the seller obviously wants a huge offer on it,you’d think that
they’d post decent pictures,& a lot of them,& whats up with that
front window tint? You can see some writing from it that shows up
in the picture of the front seat,but no pictures of the whole front of
the car.
Does anyone else think this may be a clone? Something about real ones using the back bumper on the front as an air dam? Also something about the rocker panels were raised for lower overall height. I can’t find any images with a spoiler like that -either, I think it’s a clone, I read a lot were created. Still a really cool car.
Yeah, they didn’t come with a spoiler. The rear bumper was used in place of the front bumper. The nose of a Torino was extended several inches.
This is not a serious seller. He’s on a fishing expedition, by not putting a price in the ad he’s inviting low offers even from serious potential buyers. He should name his price, even if too high for the market it’s a starting point. Sellers that don’t pick a price are playing games, they know what they won’t accept and will be quick to turn down offers they don’t like.
Steve R
That side view looks a bit odd. Door and rear panel and crease seem damaged, rocker appears suspect.
Love the Talladegas, but in white this is blah.