Car: Ford Torino Cobra
Year: 1970
What makes it special: For 1970, the Torino became the primary model and the Fairlane became a sub-series of Torino. Ford moved away from emulating the boxy lines of the full-size Fords to a completely new body for the 1970 Torino/Fairlane line influenced by coke bottle styling. Ford stylist Bill Shenk designed the 1970 Ford Torino, and was inspired by supersonic aircraft with narrow waists and bulging forward and rear fuselages needed to reach supersonic speeds.
What made it famous: The 1970 Torino had more prominent long hood short deck styling, and was longer, lower and wider than the 1969 models. The sporty “Torino GT” was available as a 2-door SportsRoof and convertible. The performance model, the “Torino Cobra” was available as a 2-door SportsRoof only. The engine line-up received major changes, and only the 250 cu in Inline-6, 302-2V and the 351W-2V were carried over from 1969. Optional engines included the 302-2V, standard on GT and Brougham models, 351W-2V, the new 351 Cleveland available with a 2- or 4-barrel carburetor, and the new 429-4V 385 Series V8, standard on the Cobra models. The 429-4V was available in three different versions. Ram Air induction was optional on the 351C-4V, 429 CJ and 429 SCJ. The Ram Air option included a “Shaker Hood” where the scoop was attached to the top of the air cleaner assembly, and protruded through a hole in the hood. A 3-speed transmission was standard on all models except for the Cobra which came with a 4-speed as standard equipment. The Cruise-O-Matic was optional for all engines while the 4-speed transmission was available on all engines except the six and the 302-2V
Why I would want one: I have loved this body-styled Torino since it was produced. Its sport and muscle car all in one.
Fun fact: Ford also chose the Torino as the base for its NASCAR entrants, and it has a successful racing heritage.