1974 Ford Pinto Runabout up for auction right now on Bring a Trailer (which, like Car and Driver, is part of Hearst Autos). Painted Grabber Blue with a white roof. Under that hood is a 5.0-liter crate engine ready to unleash some rock-‘n’-roll rumble.
The Runabout was the hatchback version of the Pinto, and this 1974 example has further practicality thanks to its chrome roof rack. Reportedly an Arizona car, this example puttered around in the same family since new, a funky little classic that was perhaps not all that interesting to drive, but still good fun. That all changed in 2019.
The Pinto went under the knife, and in went a 302-cubic-inch V-8 from ATK engines. Added performance upgrades include a Holley Quick Fuel carburetor, a Weiand intake manifold, and a PerTronix distributor, with an FSR racing radiator to keep everything cool. The power isn’t listed here, but an ATK 302 should be good for about 375 horsepower. A Pinto Runabout normally weighs under 2000 pounds.
However, this isn’t some Frankenstein’s monster of a hack job, but a very neatly done V-8 swap. The interior is correct and complete, and the fuel tank has had the period modifications made to make it more safe. The car even retains its single rear tailpipe for extra sneakiness.
