Build Year: 1968
Build Month: 06
Make: Ford
Model: Torino GT
Body Type: 2 Door Fastback
Transmission: 4 Speed Manual
Exterior / Interior Colour: B – Royal Maroon / 6A Black Vinyl
Engine Type: 390 V8 4V
Odometer: 55985 Miles Showing
VIN / Chassis No: 8A42S255814
Engine No: 322 Unsighted
Fuel: Petrol
1968 Ford Torino GT Fastback 390 S-Code V8 / Four-Speed Manual / Original Paint / Exceptional Unrestored Survivor. A remarkable piece of American motoring history, preserved for almost six decades.
Built on 8 June 1968, this Ford Torino GT Fastback represents an increasingly uncommon example of a largely unrestored American muscle car. Powered by its original 390 cubic-inch S-Code V8, coupled to a factory four-speed manual transmission, this Torino retains an extraordinary amount of its original factory equipment, including its exterior paintwork, drivetrain, suspension and pollution-control equipment.
The American Years – 1968 to 2012.
The original Ford Owner Card and warranty documentation identify the Torino’s first owner as Clair C. Seidel of Mertztown, Pennsylvania, with the warranty commencing on 10 August 1968. Remarkably, surviving documentation dated 12 March 2008 records the vehicle passing through Lape’s Auto Sales in Pennsylvania, suggesting a possible association with its original owner spanning almost 40 years. On 23 May 2012, the Torino was purchased from Lape’s Auto Sales by Christopher Kiddle for US$19,250. The purchase documentation records approximately 43,000 miles. An American shipping condition report subsequently recorded 45,484.6 miles, providing further historical evidence of the vehicle’s relatively low recorded mileage.
Recognised in Hemmings Motor News.
Adding to the vehicle’s provenance is its appearance in Hemmings Motor News in 2012, prior to its export from the United States. The publication recognised the Torino’s rarity and originality, including its desirable four-speed manual transmission, original paintwork, preserved interior and low recorded mileage. Its combination of the 390 S-Code V8, factory four-speed transmission and unusual bench-seat configuration makes this particular example especially interesting. The article also noted the somewhat dusty appearance of the engine bay.
Following the Torino’s arrival in Australia, Christopher Kiddle had the engine bay repainted to improve its presentation while retaining the original mechanical equipment.
The Journey to Australia.
Christopher Kiddle imported the Torino into Australia in October 2012. The vehicle remained in his ownership until approximately 2020, when it was purchased directly by its current Australian owner. During approximately six years of subsequent ownership, the vehicle has been carefully preserved, with particular attention paid to maintaining its originality.
An Exceptional Original Survivor.
Perhaps the most remarkable characteristic of this Torino is its extraordinary state of preservation.
Believed to retain approximately 95% of its original factory components, the vehicle remains substantially as Ford manufactured it in June 1968. It retains its original 390 S-Code V8, factory four-speed manual transmission, drivetrain, leaf springs, shock absorbers, suspension components and factory pollution-control equipment.
The exterior continues to wear its factory-original 1968 paintwork.
Although displaying minor stone chips, light scratches and the natural patina expected of a vehicle approaching six decades of age, the paintwork continues to present beautifully. The interior is equally impressive, retaining its original factory bench-seat upholstery, dashboard, door trims and interior fittings. The carpeting appears to have been replaced at some stage, but otherwise the cabin remains exceptionally original. Minor mechanical maintenance has included replacement of the fuel pump and spark plug leads. The removed original components have been retained and accompany the vehicle. The engine bay was cosmetically refinished following the vehicle’s arrival in Australia, while the exterior retains its original factory finish.
Extensive Historical Documentation.
The Torino is accompanied by an impressive collection of original and historical documentation, including:
Deluxe Marti Report confirming factory specifications and production details.
Original Ford Owner card and warranty documentation.
Three original factory build sheets.
Original owner’s manual.
Historical American ownership and title paperwork.
Original May 2012 purchase documentation.
American shipping condition report.
Historical Hemmings Motor News coverage.
Supporting vehicle and engine identification documentation.
The vehicle currently displays approximately 60,000 miles, supported by historical odometer records, although the total mileage cannot be independently guaranteed.
A Genuine Piece of American Muscle Car History.
With its desirable 390 S-Code V8, factory four-speed manual transmission, unusual bench-seat configuration, original exterior paintwork and extensive historical documentation, this 1968 Ford Torino GT Fastback offers collectors an opportunity to acquire a remarkably preserved example of Ford’s muscle car heritage.
This is not a vehicle restored to resemble its original 1968 appearance. It is a vehicle that has largely survived from 1968. Its originality, documented history and authentic presentation are what make this Torino GT particularly special.
This vehicle is located in our facility in Newcastle, for further information please contact Phil Shaw 0437 637 644.
To protect your investment vehicle bidders should consider at a minimum replacement of fuel, oil, fluids, filters and thorough brake inspection as vehicles may have been stationary for some time. Vehicles are sold as is off the floor – unregistered. Please check photos carefully for vehicle condition. No warranty expressed or implied, sold with all or any faults, and were applicable sold with Australian Government Import Approval.
