Been doing some research on the forums about late model (79-80) Pinto windshields vs. early model (71-78) Pinto windshields. Here are my findings:


79-80 model windshields are larger than early models. They are glued and sealed into place instead of using a gasket like early models use. From my understanding, there is "trim" that goes around the windshield on the outside and the inside, simulating a gasket for a smooth appearance.

71-78 model windshields are smaller than late models, and are sealed and secured by means of a gasket.


Now the fun part. a 79-80 windshield CAN be used in an early model car (71-78), but MUST be glued into place. A 71-78 windshield CAN be used in a late model car (79-80), but MUST be accompanied by the gasket.

From my research, the window frame of ALL model pintos is the same, the only difference is the size of the glass, and how it is secured to the car.

And finally, if I understand correctly, if you want to use 79-80 glass on and early model car, you will want to have the outside "windshield seal simulator trim" in order to put your chrome windshield reveal trim on the car and have it appear stock.


I have verified valuable information on the windshields regarding 1978 model Pintos!!!!!

For those of you looking for 78 model windshields, there are TWO types used in 1978...

For cars produced BEFORE 06/78 (June of 1978), you will be using a gasket type windshield.

For cars produced AFTER 06/78, you will be using the larger windshield which is held in place by sealant.

The late model 78 through 80 windshields are more readily available than the early model windshields that use the gasket, thus they are cheaper.


UPDATE: Correct gasket type glass for 71 through 06/78 model pintos is domestic windshield 774 glass. Just ask glass shops or suppliers if they can obtain a domestic 774 for you!


If anyone else has any helpful info on this topic, please contribute, it will be nice to have any and all information centralized in one post.

my understanding is that a 79 -80 will work on a  older one as you stated being glued in.  but that does not meen the 71-78 winshield will fit the 79- 80  model even with the gasket.

I have verified valuable information on the windshields regarding 1978 model Pintos!!!!!

For those of you looking for 78 model windshields, there are TWO types used in 1978...

For cars produced BEFORE 06/78 (June of 1978), you will be using a gasket type windshield.

For cars produced AFTER 06/78, you will be using the larger windshield which is held in place by sealant.

The late model 78 through 80 windshields are more readily available than the early model windshields that use the gasket, thus they are cheaper.

I called every glass shop here in the Boise valley in Idaho and I got the last gasket type windshield here. We really need to get these things reproduced!