One-Year-Only: 1971 Ford Torino 500

Ford designed its mid-size cars in 1970, introducing a sleek, more aerodynamic look that was a departure from the boxy 1968-69 editions. The Torino 500 was a one-year-only offering in 1971, perhaps as a nod to the former Fairlane 500 that the series used to be known for. We’re told this Ford is a two-owner automobile in survivor condition with 118,000 miles. Located in Stockton, California, this Torino is available here on craigslist for $12,500. An attaboy goes to Tony Primo for the tip!

The 1971 Torino was little changed because everything was new the year before. The Torino 500 was a mid-range offering in terms of trim, sandwiched between the base Torino and the Torino Brougham. Buyers interested in sport or speed went for either the Torino GT or Cobra. Body styles were many, including a 4-door sedan or hardtop, a fastback, or a 2-door hardtop like the seller’s vehicle. That configuration was the most popular and found 90,000 buyers. Ford redesigned the car again in 1972, presumably unhappy with 1970-71 sales.

This Ford came with an optional 351 “Cleveland” V8 with a 2-barrel carburetor. That was two steps up from the base six-cylinder and the 302. An automatic transmission is onboard, and we assume the car has power steering and brakes (no under-the-hood photos). The seller says the automobile runs and drives great, and we wonder if any work has been done, given the mileage.

The body is rust-free, but the paint is faded, and there is a ding or two here and there. The contrasting vinyl top looks okay. On the other hand, we’re told the interior is like new (which suggests it may have been redone, especially since the red stripes look out of place to me). The car is offered by its second owner, though we don’t know how long he or she has had it. The Ford is ready to be driven home with no known repairs needed.