1971 Ford Torino GT

Description

Eager to capitalize on all segments of the exploding muscle car market of the late 1960s, Ford introduced the intermediate Fairlane to bridge the gap between the entry-level Falcon and full-size Galaxie in 1968. Initially a subseries of the Fairlane, the Torino became the primary intermediate model in 1970, dropping the Fairlane name entirely the following year. The Torino could be had in sedan, coupe, convertible, and station wagon body styles, with the high-performance Torino GT and Tornio Cobra earning the focus of collectors. The GT, offered as a two-door SportsRoof and a Convertible in 1971, could be optioned with the Cobra’s standard four-barrel 351 cu-in V8 rated at 285-horsepower. As the second-highest trim level available, the Torino GT also received color-keyed racing mirrors, GT badging, a hood scoop, hub caps, chrome trim, and full-width taillights with honeycomb effect as standard equipment. Torino GTs are sought after today as stylish and uncommon alternatives to the era’s icons, delivering impressive performance and refinement when well specified as this example is. 

Highlights 

• One of 1,613 Torino GT Convertibles produced for 1971, and one of only 17 in this trim configuration 

• Second model year of the comprehensively restyled second-generation (1970-1971) Torino, featuring a longer, lower, ‘coke bottle’ shape, new front and rear facia, and a fully redesigned interior

• Equipped with the optional four-barrel 351 cu-in Cleveland V8 mated to a three-speed ‘C-6’ automatic transmission

• According to the accompanying Marti Auto Works Report, this Torino was ordered with the following features: White power top with glass backlite, NOX emission system, F60X15 Wide Oval belted raised white letter tires, electric clock, power steering, power front disc brakes, AM radio, tinted glass

• Repainted circa 2008 in its original factory shade of Dark Green Metallic over Black vinyl upholstery

• Offered with owner’s manuals, spare, boot cover, and numerous spare parts including a compete interior and new convertible top

• Indicating 6,111.5 miles on the five-digit odometer at the time of listing, total milage is believed to be 106,111 miles

Features

• 15-inch Magnum 500 wheels 

• Hood scoop

• GT badging 

• Yellow side stripe decals

• Power-operated convertible top

• Power steering

• Air conditioning

• Aftermarket Alpine radio and speakers

• Power front disc brakes 

Known Flaws

• Smoke on startup when cold

• Large scratch in windshield from wipers 

• Some stone chips on hood and front bumper

• Rear convertible top seam coming apart

• Radio and/or speakers inoperable 

• Carpets heavily worn

Included

• Marti Auto Works Report

• Owner’s manuals

• Spare tire

• Boot cover

• Numerous spare parts including a complete interior and new convertible top with NOS set of 70-71 Torino GT top weatherstripping and seals, a full list of which is available for review under Additional Documents

Ownership History

Prior to being purchased by the consignor in 2014, the Torino was enjoyed by a long-term Arizona-based owner for over 25 years.