I'm new, so if this has been addressed somewhere already, just give me a pointer.
I'm looking for a 1972 Ford Pinto since it was my first car some 30 years ago. But, I'm seeing 71 and 73 models for sale also. Externally, they look very similar. So, what are the official differences between the cars of these years?
Thanks,
Kevinwi
Correct me if I am wrong, but I can give it a try since I own a 73...
71 and 72 were the same. In 73, changes were made due to federal standards that caused an odd bumper arrangement and the front suspension had started to change so some parts may not be interchangeable. Engines in 71-2 were either a 1600 or a 2000 with the 2000 being most desirable. In 73, you only could get the 2000.
74 is where it really changed with larger bumpers, engine and more parts shared with the Mustang 2 (at least with the front suspension and engine)
If I had to do it again, I would start with a 74 and go from there, but I am in california and that cannot be changed now.
first :welcome:
I'd lile to add a few more comments...
the 74 and up models could be V8 powered with standard Ford parts. and today many after market brake manufactures have kits to up grade, from mild to wild! all bolt on stuff. Not becuase of the Pinto, it was the MustangII and the front supension. It is probably the most popular hot rod front end.
the issue with 74 and up was more weight...Pintos gained additional pounds every year in production.
Also, as vonkysmeed stated...If I was to do it all over again...I'd start with a 74 or newer if I was to hot rod it.
Thanks!!
But I do not regret doing what I have done to my car, it is a blast to drive and can hardly wait to test it out this week after the subframe install.
'71 & '72 are the most sought after because of the small front bumpers. '71 had drum brakes all around, late '71 and '72's had disc. Some of the '72's had those ugly bumper gaurds. '73 had a one year only rack and some suspension parts are '73 only. And as the others said, if you are going the V-8 route,, '74-up is a better choice for an easier install. But a '71 V-8 is do-able! ;D
ok I would say something here since I have all of the years cars here but Jimmy has great knowledge he nailed it for you. If you need pictures I can show. Fred :)
I am slowly learning on the parts that are not 73 only as I think the list is smaller.
Quote from: 71pintoracer on April 04, 2011, 10:08:41 PM
'71 had drum brakes all around, late '71 and '72's had disc.
Hmmm... In all my research ov the 71-72/3 differences i've never come across this. Were discs an option at least in (early) 71? The supposed weight differences between 71 and 72 are pretty big (150lbs give or take), those must be some heavy brakes.
Seems to me like most ov the 71's i've seen online had front discs, but i could be remembering that wrong... I'm still looking for that 71 2L/4-spd/hatch runabout for my daily driver...
I think the 1600cc had drums on all four corners....the 2.0 had disc on the front.
Quote from: oldeguy on May 10, 2011, 06:41:57 AM
I think the 1600cc had drums on all four corners....the 2.0 had disc on the front.
Is that fact? As in, will every 2L 71 have the discs? or just most...?? ?
Some data points. A friend had a early Pinto (forgot year) with a 2.0L and drum brakes. My 2.0L 71 had disc brakes. My 71 did not have the crash bars in the doors while my 72 does (this is part of the weight increase). Below is a thread on the weight increases. Enjoy your Pinto hunt.
http://www.fordpinto.com/general-pinto-talk/what-makes-the-72-pinto-heavier-than-the-71/msg111489/#msg111489 (http://www.fordpinto.com/general-pinto-talk/what-makes-the-72-pinto-heavier-than-the-71/msg111489/#msg111489)
My '71 had the 2.0 and drums all around. It was an option in '71, in '72 discs came standard w/ the 2.0. :)