The 1970 Ford Torino represents a high point for American muscle car styling and performance. It was a fastback design that looked ready for the high banks of a NASCAR oval, yet it was available to the public. The 1970 Ford Torino Twister Special is far from a standard model. It is an ultra-rare, regional performance package created exclusively for the Kansas City sales district. With only 90 units produced and a potent 429 Cobra Jet V-8 engine, this car represents a significant piece of Ford history. Furthermore, this is one of only 30 units equipped with the highly desirable 4-speed manual transmission.
The Twister Special Story
The Twister Special was conceived as a limited-edition promotional model to boost showroom traffic in the Kansas City sales area. This regional marketing strategy was similar to others like the California Special Mustang. Ford applied the special edition badge to both the Torino and the Mustang for the 1970 model year. The car’s visual distinction comes from its striking Vermillion paint and specific “Twister Special” decals.
A Unique Cobra Jet Package
Unlike the standard Torino, all Twister Specials were equipped with the high-performance 429 cubic inch Cobra Jet Ram Air V-8. This potent engine package was the only motor offered for this exclusive model. It instantly established the car as a serious contender on the street and perhaps even the drag strip. This combination of rarity and factory performance makes it truly unique.
The Dominant 429 CI Cobra Jet V-8
The 429 Cobra Jet was a true behemoth of the muscle car era, featuring a stout bottom end and free-breathing heads. It includes the Ram Air shaker hood scoop, which fed cool, dense air directly into the engine’s four-barrel carburetor. This setup maximized the engine’s power output. This specific model is correctly documented with its original build sheet, adding confidence in its pedigree.
Extreme Rarity of the 4-Speed Manual
Of the 90 total Twister Specials produced, only one-third, or 30 cars, were paired with the 4-speed close-ratio manual transmission. The vast majority received an automatic gearbox. The manual transmission greatly enhances the driver’s connection to the powerful Cobra Jet engine. This specific combination is incredibly difficult to find and highly prized by collectors.
Equipped for Serious Performance
To handle the tremendous output of the big-block V-8, Ford installed a 3.50 Traction Lok rear axle. This limited-slip differential was mandatory with the performance engine. Although power steering and power brakes were included, the car’s setup was designed for raw, linear acceleration. The whole package came together to create a formidable street machine.
Style and Provenance
All of the 1970 Torino Twister Specials were finished in the attention-grabbing Vermillion color, a bright, fiery red. This color was a perfect match for the car’s aggressive SportsRoof body style and muscular intentions. The exterior is accented by black body graphics and Cobra logos on the fenders. Chrome Magnum 500 wheels complete the unmistakable period look.
Solid Documentation and Pedigree
This particular example is well-documented, which is essential for rare, limited-production vehicles. It is accompanied by a laminated Deluxe Marti Report, which confirms its factory specifications and its authenticity as one of the 90 specials. The inclusion of the original build sheet further verifies its place in muscle car history.
Power, Engine Specs, and Performance
The 429 CI Cobra Jet V-8 engine, featuring Ram Air induction, was factory rated at 370 horsepower at 5,400 rpm. Torque was substantial, generating 450 lb-ft at 3,400 rpm. The 4-speed close-ratio manual transmission and 3.50 Traction Lok rear axle were perfectly matched for quick launches. This powertrain allowed the 1970 Ford Torino Twister Special to achieve 0-to-60 mph times in the low six-second range. Such figures were easily competitive with any muscle car of the time.
Summary
The 1970 Ford Torino Twister Special is a true icon of regional muscle car marketing and raw power. With only 90 units ever built, and just 30 of those sporting a 4-speed manual transmission, this specific car is extremely scarce. Its Vermillion paint, 429 Cobra Jet engine, and comprehensive documentation make it a highly desirable collector piece. It perfectly captures the excitement of Ford’s late-model muscle era.
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Source: mecum.com
