1974 Ford Pinto

The 1974 Ford Models were similar to their 1973 counterparts. The emphasis was centered on satisfying safety and emission requirements as more federally mandated safety requirements were initiated. In most cases, this meant large rear 'safety' bumpers designed to handle direct impact, at five mph, without damage. Along with the front safety bumpers adopted in 1973, the weight of the car rose by nearly 350 pounds.

For 1974, the Pinto gained energy-absorbing bumpers. Other changes included the air slot opening in the gravel pan, and the removal of the center-mounted license plate holder.

The 1974 Pinto was available as a 2-door sedan, 2-door hatchback, or a 2-door station wagon. The base model Pinto's had plain bumpers; the Deluxe Decor package gained rubber-faced vertical guards and a black vinyl impact strip. The station wagons could be purchased with optional trim packages which included rooftop luggage racks and simulated woodgrain exterior panels.

Power was from an overhead-cam four-cylinder engine displacing 122 cubic-inches and offering 86 horsepower. An optional 139 CID four-cylinder unit brought horsepower to 80 HP. An optional Cruise-O-Matic transmission, an AM/FM stereo radio, AM radio, full wheel covers, forged aluminum wheels, air conditioning, and vinyl top could be ordered.

by Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2017