Written by independent automotive journalist Steve Statham

Lot #1280 – 1970 Ford Torino GT 429 SCJ will be selling with No Reserve at our 2022 Scottsdale Auction.

Ford’s Total Performance mindset was on full display as a new decade dawned in 1970. In the Mustang lineup alone, a stroll through a Ford dealer’s lot would have speed-minded buyers choosing from among Boss 302, Boss 429, Mach 1, GT or Shelby Mustangs. For those in need of a larger car and wanting fresh, utterly distinct styling, a savvy salesman would have guided customers to Ford’s intermediate Torino line, where multiple performance choices awaited. If a buyer was really lucky, the dealership would have had a car on the lot like this Calypso Coral 1970 Torino GT 429 SCJ (Lot #1280) that will be offered with No Reserve at Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale Auction January 22-30.

The Torino was completely restyled for 1970, with sleeker lines and revised engine choices underhood. The 385-series big-block 429 V8 was a new addition to the Torino lineup, replacing the FE-series 390 and 428 cubic-inch V8s used in 1969. The 429 was available in three states of tune, with the 375hp Super Cobra Jet at the top of the hierarchy.

The GT model was the ideal home for one of the bruising 429 engines thanks to its combination of comfort and sporty features. The GT SportsRoof was set apart with a honeycomb taillight applique, black decklid appliques, color-keyed racing mirrors, GT identification, rocker moldings and a tinted glass backlite. Even in an era known for eye-grabbing muscle car graphics, the Torino GT’s optional Laser Stripe, with its reflective tape and graduated color, stood out from the crowd.

Ford built large numbers of Torino GTs, but most were powered by smaller V8s with 2-barrel carburetors. Only 241 GTs were equipped with the top-of-the-line 429 SCJ, like the car featured here. To get the Super Cobra Jet, the car had to be optioned with the Drag Pack, either with 3.91 Traction-Lok rear end or 4.30 Detroit Locker no-spin differential. That option triggered installation of the 429 SCJ, which was strengthened with four-bolt main bearings, solid lifters, a 780cfm Holley Carburetor, oil cooler, and other upgrades to handle the rigors of racing.

This Torino GT is outfitted with all the most desirable gear, such as the close-ratio 4-speed with Hurst shifter, center console, 4.30 gears, Shaker hood scoop, ribbon tachometer, hideaway headlamps, power front disc brakes, power steering, Magnum 500 wheels, F60x15 belted tires with raised white letters, AM radio with dual rear speakers, and deluxe seat belts. It has been completely restored to concours standards using original or NOS parts, including its original body panels.

A Torino GT like this would have turned heads when new, and it is still turning heads today. It was featured in the April 2017 issue of Muscle Car Review magazine, and featured on motortrend.com. On the show circuit it was a Goodguys Pacific Northwest Nationals Muscle Car of the Year finalist.

Among the paperwork that comes with the car are two build sheets and a thick packet of restoration receipts. The Marti Report breaks down this car as the only 1970 429 SCJ Torino GT 4.30 Drag Pack that came from the factory in Calypso Coral paint.

The best muscle cars give you a hit of acceleration that gets your heart racing, and also hit you between the eyes visually. This is one Torino GT that delivers that exact one-two punch.

For up-to-date information on this vehicle, visit here.

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