Pinto

Race Setup and History

The photo above is the Pinto of Gary Manley of Southern California. Gary built this car for the 1971 season and still owns this car today.  The car is in good condition and he hopes to put it back on the track soon.  This car and Gary have a colorful history and a number of "first's" in the racing world. 

Gary also built the second Pinto to race the Challenge.  He reports that he recently purchased this car back and hopes to restore it to it's original race condition.

• This was the first Pinto built as a Trans-Am car. 
• They were the first race team to be sponsored by a chariatable organization, the March of Dimes. 
• The first (and only we think) "all female" pit crew!
• First U.S. made car in the 2.5 Challenge.
• Set a class track record at Ontario Motor Speedway.

Strong Points

• Made by Ford, lots of parts available.

Weak Points

• Like many of the B-Sedans, the Pinto is not a style winner.
• Not considered a "true" vintage racer in some organizations.
• Had reputation as fire hazard when hit from rear (street version).

• Use Ford 9 inch rear end
• NASCAR style front and rear adjustable swaybars

  Ford Pinto.Com

Books/Video

Design and Production History

 Some available on thePinto Info & Mailing List web site.