Rare Ragtop: 1970 Ford Torino GT

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When was the last time you saw one of these? Unless you own one, I bet it has been a while as the total Ford Torino convertible count for ’70 only measured up to 3,939 units out of a total Torino count of 230K copies (1.7%) – I’d say that’s rare. This Pompano Beach, Florida example looks pretty darn tidy so let’s give it the once over. Here on eBay is where you’ll find it and it’s available for a BIN price of $19,900, OBO.

Torino was available in multiple body styles and trim levels in ’70 but if you wanted a convertible that meant the “GT” was the only way to go.  Besides the Torino, Ford’s “other” mid-size,  the stripper-level Fairlane 500, from where the Torino originated in 1968, was still on the books and delivered a healthy 177K examples. The venerable Fairlane name would be retired at the end of ’70, ending a run that started in 1955.

Being a Torino GT meant V8-only power, a black grille, integral hood-scoop, hidden headlamps (though these seem to be permanently open), 70-series tires, a one-inch lowered stance, trunk lid applique, and badging. Our subject car also wears the optional laser stripe, wheels that appear to be from a 2000s Mustang GT, and a deck lid spoiler from who knows where. The Wimbledon White finish and white folding top check out – no demerits warranted there, but…that driver’s door, what’s going on along the bottom ledge? I think a closer look is going to be warranted.

Inside we find optional white vinyl, high-back seats with a center console, and a contrasting black carpet. White can be a bear to keep clean but doesn’t appear to be an issue in this case though there is a minor bit of yellowing starting to occur, a common foible that befalls white interiors. Good to see is no indication of too much top-down, fun in the sun time as the upholstery still seems fluid and not cooked to a crisp.

A first-year 351 CI “Cleveland” V8 engine powers this convertible and the VIN’s H-code reveals that it started life as a 250 gross HP variant. The seller doesn’t elaborate but the engine appears to have been treated to a solid state, high-energy ignition system, chrome-plated valve covers, an aluminum intake manifold, and some sort of a goofy-looking radiator hose shroud. The seller adds, “new high-performance suspension and brake system, delivering the power and performance that made the Torino a legend on the streets.” I’m not sure what the suspension and brake system stuff includes but this is a disc brake-equipped car. As is usually the case, a three-speed automatic transmission handles all gear-related matters.

If this car were a ’70 Chevrolet Chevelle or a Pontiac LeMans convertible, it would probably warrant a shrug, they’re still rather common finds. A 1970 Ford Torino GT, however, is another matter entirely. And considering what those GM twins trade for these days, this Ford convertible seems almost reasonable, especially the OBO part, right?

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Comments

  1. StanMember

    Can’t say ive ever seen a Torino Convertible on the road.

    Like 1
  2. DavidH

    What can $19,000.00 buy new today in comparison? This could be a decent buy.

    Like 3
  3. PaulG

    Nice, get rid of the wing and off into the sunset!
    BTW there aren’t hidden headlights open, it’s equipped with a standard grill…

    Like 2
  4. Roland

    One for sale in Lowell, MA as well.

    One correction: the car presented in the article above car does not have hidden headlights – zoom into the picture of the grill. I don’t know if these were an option, but I have seen a few advertised with and without them.

    Like 0
  5. Bud Lee

    There is a black one with red stripes, all factory ( or so it appears) that drives around in my hometown.

    Like 1
  6. CCFisher

    Torino Broughams had hidden headlamps standard. They were optional on Torino and Torino GT. They would make the perfect finishing touch for this sweet convertible. As long as I’m changing things, I’d swap out the red brake calipers for blue ones to match the stripes, and I’d lose the side exit exhaust. That has to be obnoxious when cruising around with the top down.

    Like 1
  7. Howie

    This looks and sounds like a great deal!!

    Like 0

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