Ford redesigned its mid-size cars in 1968 and introduced the Torino nameplate as top-dog. In 1969, if you were looking for all-out performance, you opted for a Torino Cobra and went for the R-code Super Cobra Jet engine (428 cubic inches). This rusty example has been in a pole barn for what may have been ages, and it has succumbed to corrosion and other afflictions caused by Mother Nature. Located in Jacksonville, Florida, this bold project is waiting for someone with the budget to tackle it here on eBay for $12,500. An attaboy to “Curvette” for yet another killer tip!
Ford assembled just under 15,000 Torino Cobras in 1969. The fastback version was the most popular and accounted for 75% of the builds. The seller’s car is one of 3,766 hardtops with the formal roofline. And all of them had the CJ 428 V8 as standard fare. It’s estimated that maybe 3,000 copies came with the Super Cobra Jet (SCJ) that added Ram Air and 335 hp. So, even though this car is a mess, there can’t be that many of them left compared to the Chevelle SS 396 or Pontiac GTO.
The seller is a dealer that specializes in FOMOCO muscle cars. Sadly, this one is minus its original SJC engine, instead housing what’s left of a 410 CI with CBAE H heads that were manufactured by Mercury. It’s flanked by a “Rock Crusher” 4-speed manual transmission and power front disc brakes, plus Ford’s famous 9-inch rear end.
This Ford also has the GT suspension package that I assume came with all Cobras. It also has a set of GT wheels with tires that may be older than the Earth itself. The car has a bucket seat interior, but is it as rough as the rest of the machine looks? Rust is more than prevalent with this Torino, including the floorboards, which have holes in them. We assume the Ford is complete somehow, and the seller is waiting for a Marti Report to confirm its heritage.
A very big project. But a fairly desirable car.
This business has been around for decades. They mostly deal in Ford muscle cars which are in poor condition. Plus a parts department. Maybe one of you BFers has some familiarity with them. I google mapped their address; it’s… interesting….
Thanks Russ.
I believe the 410 that’s in it now was only offered for one year, in the ’66 Mercury. Its bore and stroke were borrowed from the 390 and 428, can’t remember which way. Anyway seeing as it’s missing some bits, it looks like you’ll be looking for another mill as well as a bunch of sheet metal. As a non-original project needing a ton of serious work, this car is waaaay overpriced.
3K on a good day.
The SCJ had nothing to do with Ram Air, if a car came with 3.91 or 4.30 gears ratio (drag pack) the engine was automatically upgraded to the Super Cobra Jet, any other gear ratio had the Cobra Jet.
Steve R