I am the last person to criticize another person's project...howe ver, before you do a 4x4 Pinto, google it and you will find bazillions Pintos having been converted in such a manner. In other words, it will not be as unique as you think. What's more unique is keeping it stock or even resto-modded! You will be amazed how many people will come forward to see your Pinto!
Your 1973 seems decent, and not knowing what the overall condition it is in, I'd hazard a guess that it is easily restorable (easily is relative speaking ...chuckling)
Godspeed in your project! Hope to see you at the Stampede!
Happy Motoring!
Dan