1973 Pinto Runabout with dual color-keyed racing mirrors, accent group.

It seems that our basic, durable, economical little Pinto has arrived.

Not only is it being bought by people who just want a basic, durable, economical little car, it's also finding its way into the hands of a lot of pretty knowledgeable enthusiasts. Who see it is not just for what it is. But also for what it can be.

Well, that's fine with us. As a matter of fact, we were sort of planning on it.

Which is one of the reasons we made things like rack and pinion steering, high-back buckets, and an all synchro 4-speed standard. Not to mention big wide wheelwells for big fat tires.

That's why we included things on the option list like a 2000 cc cam in head 4. A handling suspension package complete with front stabilizer bar. Forged aluminum wheels, steel-belyed radials, raised white letter wide ovals, an AM/FM stero, sports accent group and dual racing mirrors.

And how many car dealers do you know who stock things like inexpensive tape packages, fiberglass air dams, spoilers and wheelwell flares? Well a lot of Ford dealers do.

It all goes back to a philosophy that's worked pretty well for us over the years; supplying the basics and leaving the rest up to you.

From all indications it's still working.