Off To Talladega... [PIC]

  For 1969, both MOPAR and Ford opted for special aerodynamic features for their mid-sized NASCAR eligible race cars. MOPAR's winged Daytonas and Superbirds had 18" nose cone extensions whereas the Ford Talladega and Mercury Cyclone opted for a flattened nose to reduce drag. For the Talladega, it's season started with their venerable 427 side oiler but later switched to the 429 Cobra Jet which oddly was homologated in their Boss 429 Mustangs. The Talladega platform was homologated with their 428 in production cars. Like the MOPARS, the Talladegas were not only a hard sell to the public, but they still lost $1000 per car. Despite their exotic looks, the MOPARS lost out to the Talladega which won 29 Grand National races in the 69-70 season winning both the Manufacturers and Drivers Championships (David Pearson). Richard Petty in this #43 took 2nd overall.

 While GMP provided us with the two versions of the Cyclone ll, this WIX model seems to be the only example of the Torino Talladega I could find. For its low price, it's a pretty decent representation as part of their Richard Petty series.