Where the Money Went:
Internet message boards and eBay are virtual swap meets where hot rodders can save big bucks, and Greg Pettit's Torino proves the point. Only the most critical components (like the rotating assembly, rings, bearings, and gaskets) were purchased new. Additionally, little parts like the cooling fan and gauge cluster were purchased at AutoZone. They're not fancy name brands, but they don't need to be.
| '71 Ford Torino GT: | $2,600 (in 1987) |
| Paint & body: | $5,000 |
| Mini-tubs: | $0 |
| Wheels: | $400 |
| Tires: | $500 |
| Engine block: | $400 |
| Rotating assembly: | $1,150 |
| Rings & bearing: | $150 |
| Machining: | $500 |
| Cam: | $140 |
| Lifters: | $120 |
| Pushrods: | $75 |
| Used rockers: | $120 |
| Timing set: | $20 |
| Cylinder heads: | $1,800 |
| Used intake manifold: | $200 |
| Used carb: | $400 |
| Stock distributor: | $40 |
| MSD ignition box: | $180 |
| Plug wires: | $70 |
| Used oil pan: | $100 |
| Oil pump: | $120 |
| Gaskets: | $110 |
| Used headers: | $200 |
| Mufflers/collectors: | $120 |
| Used fuel system parts: | $300 |
| Radiator: | $125 |
| Water pump: | $180 |
| Cooling fan: | $40 |
| Trans: | $1,300 |
| Torque converter: | $400 |
| Shifter: | $100 |
| Rearend build: | $670 |
| Rear shocks: | $20 |
| Rear springs: | $0 |
| Rear sway bar: | $10 |
| Front suspension rebuild kit: | $140 |
| Vinyl seat dye: | $30 |
| Auto Meter tach: | $110 |
| Oil/volt/temp gauges: | $30 |
| Rollbar: | $1,500 |
| Five-point harnesses: | $400 |
| Total: | $19,870 |