Ford’s popular intermediate platform received a complete reboot in 1970, with swoopy new styling, an expanded model range, and some novel graphics. Here’s the pitch.
Ford treated its Fairlane/Torino line to a comprehensive makeover for 1970, with dramatic new “shaped by the wind” sheet metal—longer, wider, and lower, naturally—and an expanded model range. The big, broad new lineup included (deep breath) Fairlane, Fairlane 500, Torino, Torino Brougham, Torino GT, and Torino Cobra. Powerplant choices were equally generous: a 250 CID inline six, small-block V8s in 302 and 351 CID versions, and the muscular 429 CID canted-valve V8, available in standard, Cobra, or Cobra Jet Ram Air tune with a trendy shaker hood scoop.
It’s fair to say that in trim levels, features, and equipment, Dearborn did its best to offer something for everyone in its intermediate-class entry that year, from family to luxury to performance. This original commercial spot from 1970 is focused on the Torino GT, the sport-luxury entry in the lineup, which might be best remembered today for its distinctive Laser Stripe graphics package. The star in this clip happens to be in Calypso Coral with yellow-to-red fadeaway stripes, which proved to be a popular combination for buyers that year. Video below.
I had a ’70 GT convertible, in a light yellow that looked much like the convertible in this picture. It had a shaker, hidden headlights, laser stripe and a 4bbl 351.
I’d always wanted one, and this had a solid body. But there wasn’t, and probably still isn’t, enough support for restoration parts. Everyone wants Chevelles and Road Runners. I sold it and bought a Triumph TR-6.
By the way, your lead photo shows the 1971 cars. The 1970 models didn’t have a split grille.
Thanks for the catch. Somehow we failed to spot that. A correct photo will go in shortly.
I had a 70 Ranchero GT 351 4V Clevo. Auto.
Underneath a slightly less strong version of the Aussie Falcon, though the tray was probably 6″ longer than a Falcon ute.
Drove like a Falcon, went as you would expect
My mate Dennis had a 73 model; very very rusty and I was wondering about the low mileage- he give it the berries pulling away from the lights and the dashboard literally fell in our laps- you guessed it- clocked!
Almost had a ’70 429SCJ, 4spd., shaker hood, iffy repair job on the pass. door. Then my mother reminded me about insurance, and what the price of gas was doing in ’74.
Ended up with a ’67 Dodge Polara 500. Sportier version of the Monoco. Buckets, console auto, 383, no vinyl top, but a fastback. One of the looooongest cars I ever saw for it’s class.
No, I’m not Dave’s mate, Dennis.