The Torino was Ford’s mid-size automobile between 1968 and 1976. At first, it was a trim option on the Fairlane 500 but quickly replaced that brand on the cars. Third-generation Torino’s were built from 1972-to 76 and the seller has three of them, all the top-line Gran Torino, from model years 1972 (2 cars) and 1973 (1 car). Located in Calaveras County, California, none of the cars have run in some time but the seller believes little is needed to change that. Available here on craigslist, the ante is $7,000 per auto. Thanks to MattR for bringing these finds our way!
In 1972, the Torino’s were completely redesigned and went back to body-on-frame construction from the previously used unit-body construction. The long-hood/short-deck look of the cars was retained and bore strong elements of “coke bottle” styling. “DirectAire” ventilation was common on all Torino’s, so vent windows were finally a thing of the past. The most noticeable difference between 1972 and 1973 was that the grille opening on the former models was “open mouth” whereas a flat grille appeared the next year.
1972 Ford Gran Torino (Blue)
We’re told this car has a 351 cubic inch V8 with an automatic transmission and has been garaged for the past 20 years. Both the grille and front bumper are missing although the paint looks shiny. This one wears the SportsRoof body style, a bench seat inside, and both door panels are off and their whereabouts are unknown. The auto rolls on a cool-looking set of aftermarket wheels.
1972 Ford Gran Torino (Green)
Like the blue car, this Ford has the 351 V8, automatic tranny, and has spent two decades in the lockup. The grille is in place, but the front bumper is MIA. It wears a black vinyl top that matches the interior, and it may be in okay shape. The paint, on the other hand, is quite dull in its finish. The interior is dirty and may clean up just fine. This Torino wears the square-back roofline.
1973 Ford Gran Torino (Red/Green)
This car may have spent more time outdoors and the red stuff on the roof may be primer where a vinyl roof once existed. Also, the back window glass of this square-back looks to have been removed. The Ford is powered by a 400 cubic inch V8, again with automatic transmission. This one has the worst-looking interior where deep cleaning is needed along with new carpeting and dash pad.
With all these cars being offered at the same price, the blue 1972 SportsRoof looks to be the nicer of the three finds and may take the least amount of work, assuming no long-term gremlins exist in the drivetrain.
Actually the base 1972 Torino had a completely different grille design from the Gran Torino , it was more straight across and flat – and not anywhere near as good looking !
I like 68-72 GM A bodies but must admit- few cars were as good looking as a 72 Gran Torino Sportsroof …and it was pretty competent with a 351- I’d love to have one!
in the day I remember these had a 5 motor choice list, 3 or 4 trannies; notch, FB, sedan, coup, and wagon choices. The FB ‘went on for miles’. BIG car (to me), not the 15 ft lincoln/caddy tho.
Thus ending every kids dream of a “Starsky & Hutch” Theme Park.
If it would take very little to get the cars running, then why doesn’t the seller do it?
My 1st car was a 72 Sport.. 351-C 4v auto. Lotsa good memories were made. Gold with the lazer stripe
The blue fastback is the only one I would want, never liked the formal roof Torino.
I met a guy who raced Torino’s at road race events. He told that certain models front end styling was much more aerodynamic than others, making a big difference at high speeds. No idea which were the “better” years…
Posted 18 days ago, what is on top of the lift in the garage? Pantera?
The Torino is among my favorites.. Currently in the market for a 76 Gran Torino Elite.. If anyone has a lead I an use, speak up..
72 and 73 torinos were nice cars. I’m partial to the fastback roof. Love the medium green glow metallic color. Just a nice size car. Not huge but big enough.
There should be no apostrophe in the title.
You are correct Terry.. In todays’ world of “spell check” the correct way to spell and speak proper English is slowly disappearing into oblivion.
How hard & costly is it to find grills & bumpers for a ’72?
Looking at all the sellers many projects, he should have the bumpers laying .
around. If not, try Desert Valley used auto parts.(They ship and I’ve had great experience with them).. Also, Keystone automotive parts.. Local swap meets. older junk yards, offer up, Craigs list… Prices are what the market will bear..
Brings back memories. Had a metallic green 72 bought new. Wanted a gas saver so ordered it with the new 300 strait six. No hill climber but got 25 mpg.