Hardcore collectors won't likely have a hard time parting with part of their wallets when they see what's in one of the auction lots in Las Vegas this fall. One sleek maroon monster awaits them in the form of a 1969 Ford Torino Talladega stock car with an impressive NASCAR backstory to match. This speedy Ford, one of only 750, is a tribute to NASCAR Hall of Famer Benny Parsons. Currently listed as a featured item by Mecum Auctions, the car—named after the Alabama-based superspeedway—is a critical contributor to racing history.
Power Delivered By A Boss
At the heart of this Talladega is the engine, a Boss 429 Mustang motor, capable of generating 870 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 809 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm. That's a lot of horses under that hood, but adding to its value is the myriad of signatures on the radiator. Pretty much every racing great at the time from Junior Johnson and David Pearson to Jack Roush and Cale Yarborough signed it.
The engine also sports a set of magnesium valve covers, all taken from racing champion David Pearson's car. It also has a magnesium intake manifold and a magnesium dry sump oil pan. As an additional incentive, whoever drives off with this beauty will get a book that has photos of the drivers who signed the radiator as well as a brief history of each of the signees.
More Streamlined Look
The owner, Rick Stanton, built the car to honor Benny Parsons, collecting parts over a 45 year period. Building the car was the culmination of a dream Stanton had since the age of 19.
These 750 Talladegas sported a more streamlined look that helped the Ford dominate NASCAR standings in 1969, including the Winston Cup crown won by Pearson. With a longer and lower nose, blocked grille, and less obtrusive fenders, this was a contender that was tough to beat on the track.
The Parsons car also has a few footnotes worth mentioning, such as a feature spread in the 2007 edition of Hot Rod Magazine and being only one of six vehicles to be specifically invited to the Dyno Wars facilitated by Carroll Shelby's American Racing Museum.
This Ford Is Among Six Select Cars In Vegas
Because of its NASCAR heritage, for sure, Mecum has this Talladega listed as one of six featured collectibles to shift their focus towards Las Vegas this fall. Two additional Fords have also made that elite list (a 1963 Galaxie XL and a 1961 Woody station wagon), while three Chevys (1 1957 Bel Air, a 1961 Impala bubble top, and a 1970 Monte Carlo) will also be vying for top dollar. The Talladega will be up for auction October 9 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Source: Mecum Auctions