1970 Ford Torino SportsRoof – A Survivor from Muscle Car Glory

The 1970 Ford Torino was a symbol of change for Ford’s mid-size line—reborn with a sleeker, more muscular look and serious performance to back it up. Replacing the Fairlane in spirit and style, the Torino's second generation offered everything from sensible family sedans to fire-breathing street warriors. At the heart of it all was the SportsRoof—a fastback body style that oozed late '60s aggression and aerodynamic attitude, making it a favorite among collectors and muscle car aficionados today.

This particular 1970 Ford Torino, finished in its factory-correct “T” code Red paint, represents a rare kind of survivor. Built in Atlanta and originally delivered to Warren Wooten Ford in Cocoa, Florida, this Torino rolled off the line on January 22, 1970, just two days behind schedule. More than five decades later, it remains remarkably intact, with 99,467 miles believed to be actual—a testament to its preservation and care.

Under the hood sits the numbers-matching 351 cubic inch Cleveland V8, a four-barrel variant (engine code “M”) known for its high-revving potential and robust performance. Backed by the FMX 3-speed automatic transmission and a 3.25 conventional rear axle, this Torino was built to deliver a smooth, confident cruise with the torque to move when asked. Original Autolite carburetion and factory exhaust—complete with H-pipe, dual tailpipes, and even original Ford mufflers—keep things authentic. The engine bay is very original, showing only minor aging and retains the correct DOAE-J casting and 9K23 date code.

Rolling on 14-inch Magnum 500 wheels wrapped in Cooper Cobra white letter tires, the Torino sports an appropriately vintage stance. The exterior, wearing what appears to be mostly original paint, has aged gracefully with light patina and modest blemishes that underline its survivor status. The red finish is matched with the correct “7A” code black vinyl/cloth bench seat interior, also original and well-preserved. The split bench seat, manual windows and locks, and Philco AM radio—all factory equipment—remain intact, joined by period-correct additions like an AM/FM tuning device and 8-track radio.

The car features power front disc brakes and manual steering, with a front sway bar enhancing stability. Although it doesn’t have air conditioning or power accessories, its simplicity is part of its charm—pure, analog motoring from a golden age. Even without A/C, the blower motor and mode settings function properly (though the temp blend cable is frozen). Electricals are largely go—lights, signals, horn, dash lights, heater, and radio are all functioning. The car even comes with two sets of keys for ignition, doors, and trunk.

Underneath, the car is described as very solid and original. Suspension and steering components appear older, possibly original, but all check out as mechanically sound. From the road feel to the tight handling, PC Classic Cars notes that this Torino is “one of the tighter-driving” examples they’ve seen—a strong endorsement from a team that knows their classic muscle.

Originally ordered through the Jacksonville District Sales Office and equipped with extras like tinted glass and Argent Styled Steel Wheels (now swapped for Magnums), this Torino was one of only 631 built with this engine/transmission combo and just 383 with this paint and trim combination. The Marti Report and a reproduction Ford invoice confirm its factory pedigree.

This 1970 Ford Torino is more than a muscle-era icon—it’s a rolling time capsule. From its untouched body lines to the subtle growl of its Cleveland V8, it represents a rare opportunity to witness the raw, unfiltered experience of late-‘60s Ford performance engineering.

At PC Classic Cars in Sherman, Texas, vehicles like this survivor Torino are more than just inventory—they’re celebrated for their heritage, authenticity, and the stories they carry. With a passion for preserving automotive history, PC Classic Cars continues to be a trusted source for classic car enthusiasts and collectors alike.