1972 Ford Gran Torino Sport 449

• Desirable one-year-only fastback Gran Torino Sport model in fantastic condition throughout

• 351 Cobra Jet engine with four-barrel carbs, shows like new

This lot is available for online bidding at WorldwideAuctioneers.com

VIN: 2H35Q164291

• Documented by the Deluxe Marti Report

• Full numbers matching drivetrain with power steering and power brakes

Ford’s new Torino for 1972 spread sighs of relief across Dearborn when sales reached nearly a half million units. Ford proved the formula that had worked for so many years was still valid –combining a comfortable ride, sporty styling, and V-8 performance – all without crushing the kid's college fund. After all, things in Detroit were looking a bit grim back in 1971 – import brands and subcompacts were the hot sellers, and Uncle Sam was about to make all cars heavier and slower, so Ford stepped up with a clean sheet redesign for 1972. It was a full, wide lineup, with everything from stripped-down six-cylinder coupes to LTD-flavored Broughams to full-sized Gran Torino wagons with the three-way Magic Door tailgates. The high-performance end was covered by the Gran Torino Sport, with a singular fastback body style and plenty of power like the car we see here today. This fine example came out of 18-year-long ownership in entirely original condition – obviously, a car that was truly cherished. The new owner used it sparingly for a few seasons and then decided the time was right to make it perfect once again and began to restore all the original components. The body was in great shape and was comprehensively repainted in the correct Medium Bright Yellow paint, with the scooped hood, vinyl stripes, and black vinyl top all beautifully presented. All of the original chrome was restored and reused, right down to the factory Magnum 500 chrome rims. Today, it’s the full factory look for one of the lowest and widest cars Ford ever built. Even the grille is unique to the Gran Torino Sport, and today, with that racy, long fastback design, it’s simply one of the most desirable cars of the era. Step inside, and slide right into the deluxe vinyl interior, with a unique split bench seat and a wood-grained interior with a cool two-spoke steering wheel. This car features the Rally Pack instrument group, tinted windows, an AM radio, and everything in top-notch condition.

Even the mirrors are color-keyed, and everyone who sees the car is impressed with how clean and accurate the interior remains. Pop the hood, and a lot of the fun begins, with a fully restored, highly accurate, numbers-matching 351 Cobra Jet engine. With that huge four-barrel carb setup and larger intake and exhaust valves in place, these beautiful engines simply breathe easier than most and pull over 266 HP. They remain today one of the most sought-after performance engines of the era, and finding a full numbers-matching drivetrain is a rarity. The correct C6 automatic transmission is in place – the one with the one-piece aluminum case and bell housing – followed by the correct 3.25 rear end. Mix in performance radials and front disc brakes, and you are ready to hit the road with a potent recipe for performance. Collectors agree that the 1972 Gran Torino Sport was a one-year highlight in an era of fading performance – just before new smog regulations and huge ugly bumpers were mandated. With just 74,000 original miles and an impressive restoration, this fully numbers-matching Gran Torino Sport simply stands as one of the very best we’ve ever seen.