When people think of the Ford Torino, several images probably come to mind. Some may picture the 1974 Gran Torino from the television series, "Starsky and Hutch". Still others may bring to mind a vision of the Torino Talledega, a high performance vehicle that took over Nascar in the late 1960s.

Either way, Ford produced several different versions of the Torino from 1968 to 1976. From station wagons to muscle cars and everything in between, consumers saw the line of vehicles change and adjust over the course of several years.

Named for the city of Turin in Italy, the vehicle started out as just an upscale model of the Ford Fairlane. The only difference seemed to be the options available when the two were compared side by side. Because of its success and its popularity, eventually the Fairlane name was dropped completely and the Ford Torino became the primary name for all the intermediate vehicles. Most people purchased the 4-door sedans and hardtops as these were the most practical choices. But at the same time, Ford was also creating a high performance vehicle based on this model that would eventually be known as the Torino Cobra, to enter into Nascar.

In 1970, the new Torino was released. The exterior changed considerably and some of the stylists say supersonic aircraft inspired the design. Being aerodynamic and still keeping a sleek and stylish look was important. There were 13 different models offered in that year ranging from the base model, called the Fairlane 500, all the way up to the Torino Cobra, Ford's top performance vehicle. Customers could choose from two doors, four doors, convertibles and hardtops. The station wagon was still available as well.

From 1972 to 1976, the Gran Torino took center stage. The grille was completely changed to a more oval opening that some considered to be odd while others deemed it part of the pleasing look of the vehicle. At this point, there were only nine different models available, including the Gran Torino, the Torino Brougham and the Gran Torino Sport. Again, the Squire station wagon was still available. There was a shift in priorities with Ford and the Cobra was discontinued as the manufacturer shifted its focus from performance to luxury. They received a successful response with almost half a million units being produced in 1972. Consumer Guide considered the Ford Torino to be a 'Best Buy'.

Government regulations caused several different changes to the Torino over the course of the next few years. At one point, the front needed to be able to take on a 5 mile per hour impact without damage to the front headlights. Then, a year later, vehicles needed to have a specific bumper to meet standards. It was the Gran Torinos produced in 1975/76 that were featured on the television series, Starsky and Hutch. 1976 was the last year for the Ford Torino.