Attending to the needs of automotive enthusiasts across Northern California, Geoffrey Palermo owns GMP Cars, LLC, and provides services that keep exotic models running at peak performance. Over the years, Geoffrey Palermo has personally restored numerous classic European cars, as well as iconic American muscle cars of the 1960s and 1970s.
Overshadowed by the Ford Mustang, one of the late 1960s’ most noteworthy muscle cars is the Ford Torino GT, which debuted in 1968 and was developed from the company’s smaller pony car, the Fairlane. Produced until 1971, the base two-door V8 Torino GT proved popular, with the initial GT coupe joined by a convertible and a SportsRoof coupe.
With basic Torinos offering good value to the restoration enthusiast, a variety of special-edition models also exist. In 1969, Ford introduced its no-frills Torino Cobra as a response to the popular 1968 Plymouth Road Runner. Equipped with a 428 V8, the car stood out on the dragstrip as it reached 60 miles per hour in less than six seconds and completed a quarter mile in 14.5 seconds.
Also launched in 1969, the Ford Torino Talladega was wind-tunnel designed for greater aerodynamic efficiency at the same horsepower as the Cobra. It marked the model’s entry into NASCAR competition against the likes of the Dodge Charger and the Mercury Cyclone, with street versions also produced. The Talladega generated immediate results, as it notched 26 victories for Ford in NASCAR Grand National Series races, as well as the 1969 championship.
