Factory prototypes were most often crushed after their short lives as test cars. Automotive manufacturers spent much time and money developing new and innovative technologies. But usually they did not want their competitors to know what they were up to, so to control their testing technology the factory “mules” were usually destroyed. That’s why finding a prototype like this 1970 Ford Torino King Cobra is such an outstanding trophy for a collector.
To be able to view a factory prototype in this kind of condition is a treat for any car fan. Be sure to click through to the ad on this 1970 Ford Torino King Cobra to see dozens of photos and a video done by RK Motors Charlotte where the car is now being advertised for sale. Ford dropped the proposed racing program for the Boss 429 Torino in favor of the Boss 429 Mustang, so this is one of only two Torino Boss 429s known to exist. It comes with the Boss 429 Hemi head V8 big block motor, a Toploader 4-speed manual transmission and never-before seen aerodynamic upgrades intended for NASCAR racing such as the convex rear window and hideaway headlights which you will see in the photos. Both Holman & Moody and Bud Moore Racing had a hand in the development of this car. The two test cars were saved by Bud Moore during a trip to Dearborn. He later sold this one to a local police officer who used it as a daily driver with a regular Torino front end on it. Two Ford fanatics later found the car sitting in a field and noticed there was something unusual about it. After a difficult restoration they brought it back to the way you see it today.
RK Motors Charlotte tells us there is an original build sheet that comes with the car. They also indicate a collection of original photos showing the cars during its days at Ford during King Cobra development. The odometer is said to show 43k miles. It comes with two large picture boards that can be used as displays at car shows.
The Torino King Cobra racing program was shut down by Lee Iaccoca when he took over the reigns at Ford. So we will never know how effective the Torino King Cobra might have been if it had been allowed to run NASCAR. This may have been the car to tip the scales in Ford’s favor in the “aero-car” wars of 1969 and 1970 when the Ford Torino Talladega did battle with the Dodge Daytona and Plymouth Superbird. The Torino King Cobra was to be the successor to the Talladega. Now we’ll never know what the King Cobra program could have meant for Ford. But we do have this King Cobra left as a reminder of what could have been. This would be the crowning acquisition for any discrete collection.
Click the video window below to see a video of this 1970 Ford King Cobra Boss 429:
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