Documentation
Mike Herman got this information to us on August 13, 2016. All docs have been transcribed below.
Ford Division
Ford Motor Company
Kansas City District Sales Office
U.S. Highway No. 69
Claycomo Missouri
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 11040--Antioch Branch
Kansas City, Missouri 64119
October 28, 1969
TO: ALL KANSAS CITY DISTRICT FORD DEALERS
SUBJECT: TOTAL PERFORMANCE DAY
Gentlemen:
It gives me great pleasure to invite you, your Sales Manager, Parts Manager, Service Manager and Mechanics to the Kansas City District Total Performance Day to be held Friday, November 7, 1969.
The event will be held at the Kansas City International Raceway, 8201 Noland Road, Kansas City, Missouri, and will feature Ford's Drag Team, the Total Performance Show, and Tasca Ford's High Performance Show.
In the morning, in one area, Mr. Bob Tasca will talk to you and your Sales Manager about how to get your share of the multi-million dollar high performance market, while in another area, his high performance Technicians will hold a Technical Meeting for your Parts Manager, Service Manager and Mechanics.
At noon, an old-fashioned barbeque lunch will be served by Stephensons Restaurant.
The afternoon will feature drag racing by the Ford Drag Team, and you will each be given an opportunity to drag and take a turn on the road course. This will be a very exciting part of the program and should produce some interesting results. Winners in both events will be awarded Trophies.
The performance car market is expanding at a rapid rate, from 55,000 in 1964 to an estimated 800,000 in 1970. The information you gained at this event will help you to be able to cash in on these tremendous profit opportunities and will give you many ideas for merchandising.
To help plan for the event please notify us of the name of those who will be in attendance from your dealership. A form is enclosed for that purpose.
We are looking forward to seeing you and your personnel at this informative and funfilled day.
Sincerely,
C.V. Toussaint
C.V. Toussaint
District Sales Manager
Ford Motor Company
Kansas City District Sales Office
U.S. Highway No. 69
Claycomo Missouri
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 11040--Antioch Branch
Kansas City, Missouri 64119
October 28, 1969
TO: ALL KANSAS CITY DISTRICT FORD DEALERS
SUBJECT: TOTAL PERFORMANCE DAY
Gentlemen:
It gives me great pleasure to invite you, your Sales Manager, Parts Manager, Service Manager and Mechanics to the Kansas City District Total Performance Day to be held Friday, November 7, 1969.
The event will be held at the Kansas City International Raceway, 8201 Noland Road, Kansas City, Missouri, and will feature Ford's Drag Team, the Total Performance Show, and Tasca Ford's High Performance Show.
In the morning, in one area, Mr. Bob Tasca will talk to you and your Sales Manager about how to get your share of the multi-million dollar high performance market, while in another area, his high performance Technicians will hold a Technical Meeting for your Parts Manager, Service Manager and Mechanics.
At noon, an old-fashioned barbeque lunch will be served by Stephensons Restaurant.
The afternoon will feature drag racing by the Ford Drag Team, and you will each be given an opportunity to drag and take a turn on the road course. This will be a very exciting part of the program and should produce some interesting results. Winners in both events will be awarded Trophies.
The performance car market is expanding at a rapid rate, from 55,000 in 1964 to an estimated 800,000 in 1970. The information you gained at this event will help you to be able to cash in on these tremendous profit opportunities and will give you many ideas for merchandising.
To help plan for the event please notify us of the name of those who will be in attendance from your dealership. A form is enclosed for that purpose.
We are looking forward to seeing you and your personnel at this informative and funfilled day.
Sincerely,
C.V. Toussaint
C.V. Toussaint
District Sales Manager
TOTAL PERFORMANCE BULLETIN
October 31, 1969
TO: ALL KANSAS CITY DISTRICT FORD DEALERS
SUBJECT: News Release _ TOTAL PERFORMANCE DAY
Gentlemen:
For your information, a copy of a news release is attached that will cover the Kansas City District TOTAL PERFORMANCE DAY, to be held November 7, 1969. This News Release has been prepared by the Ford Public Relations Department and will be forwarded to the local newspapers of dealers attending the Kansas City District Total Performance Day.
An 8" x 10" photograph of each dealer, taken with Mr. Bob Tasca, Ford's most aggressive - and most successful performance car dealer - will also be forwarded to local newspapers. The Long Range Weather Forecast for Next Friday calls for clear skies with temperature in the mid-fifties. This will make for a fast track!
So make your plans to attend - - -
This MOST
INTERESTING,
INFORMATIVE - and
ENJOYABLE DAY,
G. D. Woody
G. D. Woody, Manager
K.C. District Car Merchandising Dept. - Ford D-
October 31, 1969
TO: ALL KANSAS CITY DISTRICT FORD DEALERS
SUBJECT: News Release _ TOTAL PERFORMANCE DAY
Gentlemen:
For your information, a copy of a news release is attached that will cover the Kansas City District TOTAL PERFORMANCE DAY, to be held November 7, 1969. This News Release has been prepared by the Ford Public Relations Department and will be forwarded to the local newspapers of dealers attending the Kansas City District Total Performance Day.
An 8" x 10" photograph of each dealer, taken with Mr. Bob Tasca, Ford's most aggressive - and most successful performance car dealer - will also be forwarded to local newspapers. The Long Range Weather Forecast for Next Friday calls for clear skies with temperature in the mid-fifties. This will make for a fast track!
So make your plans to attend - - -
This MOST
INTERESTING,
INFORMATIVE - and
ENJOYABLE DAY,
G. D. Woody
G. D. Woody, Manager
K.C. District Car Merchandising Dept. - Ford D-
TOTAL PERFORMANCE DAY
KANSAS CITY INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
NOVEMBER 7, 1969
DELIVERY OF "TWISTER SPECIAL" UNITS
DISTRICT RESPONSIBILITY: MR. L. K. HAYDEN
DISTRIBUTION PERSONNEL
Mr. Hayden should make arrangements with Mr. Bob Sadler to have all "Twister Special" units delivered to the Kansas City International Raceway, 8201 Noland Road, no later than 3:00 P.M., Thursday, November 6, 1969.
Mr Hayden and his personnel will be responsible for the placing of invoices in all units and maintaining an accurate record of units to be driven out by dealers. All units will be numbered so they can be easily located by the dealers.
At 4:00 P.M., Friday, November 7, 1969, Mr. Hayden and his personnel will be responsible for getting the drive-out release form signed by all the dealers who will be driving out units.
Mr Hayden will make arrangements for Dealers Transport to pick up the units, that will not be driven out, on Saturday, November 8, 1969.
* * * * * * * * * * *
TOTAL PERFORMANCE DAY
KANSAS CITY INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
NOVEMBER 7, 1969
PREPARATION AND POSITIONING OF MR. W. C. TEMME
"TWISTER SPECIAL" UNITS: ALL TRAVELING PERSONNEL
Mr. Temme will be responsible for the final positioning of the 190 "Twister Special" units. These units must be lined up numerically for easy location by dealers. Mr. Davenport will supply Mr. Temme with a list of all units, each with a number assigned.
On Thursday, November 6th, at 1:00 P.M. - All District Travelling Personnel, not on other assignments, will report to Mr. Temme at the Kansas City Raceway. Mr. Temme will provide specific instructions on the final preparation and positioning of the "Twister Special" units.
Mr. Temme will make arrangements to have all units locked and the keys secured before the conclusion of the work session.
* * * * * * * * * * *
KANSAS CITY INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
NOVEMBER 7, 1969
DELIVERY OF "TWISTER SPECIAL" UNITS
DISTRICT RESPONSIBILITY: MR. L. K. HAYDEN
DISTRIBUTION PERSONNEL
Mr. Hayden should make arrangements with Mr. Bob Sadler to have all "Twister Special" units delivered to the Kansas City International Raceway, 8201 Noland Road, no later than 3:00 P.M., Thursday, November 6, 1969.
Mr Hayden and his personnel will be responsible for the placing of invoices in all units and maintaining an accurate record of units to be driven out by dealers. All units will be numbered so they can be easily located by the dealers.
At 4:00 P.M., Friday, November 7, 1969, Mr. Hayden and his personnel will be responsible for getting the drive-out release form signed by all the dealers who will be driving out units.
Mr Hayden will make arrangements for Dealers Transport to pick up the units, that will not be driven out, on Saturday, November 8, 1969.
* * * * * * * * * * *
TOTAL PERFORMANCE DAY
KANSAS CITY INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
NOVEMBER 7, 1969
PREPARATION AND POSITIONING OF MR. W. C. TEMME
"TWISTER SPECIAL" UNITS: ALL TRAVELING PERSONNEL
Mr. Temme will be responsible for the final positioning of the 190 "Twister Special" units. These units must be lined up numerically for easy location by dealers. Mr. Davenport will supply Mr. Temme with a list of all units, each with a number assigned.
On Thursday, November 6th, at 1:00 P.M. - All District Travelling Personnel, not on other assignments, will report to Mr. Temme at the Kansas City Raceway. Mr. Temme will provide specific instructions on the final preparation and positioning of the "Twister Special" units.
Mr. Temme will make arrangements to have all units locked and the keys secured before the conclusion of the work session.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Ford News Release
Regional Public Relations Office
One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Ill. 60601
Telephone: (312) 321-0370
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KANSAS CITY, MO. -- Nearly 500 district Ford dealers, their representatives and the press attended the Tasca Dealer Performance Seminar today at the Kansas City International Raceway, 8200 Noland Road.
Traveling from city to city, the unique seminar is designed to train Ford salesmen and service technicians to be the best in the business - the business of selling and servicing high performance cars and the myriad of parts that makes them run.
As a special attraction, Kansas City district dealers participated in a drive-away of 200 specially-built performance cars -- 100 Mustang Mach I's equipped with 351 and 428 high performance engines, and 100 Torino Cobras equipped with 429 Cobra engines. The Mach I's are painted Grabber Orange with a black racing stripe along each side panel and black Twister Special decals on each rear fender. The Torinos are painted Vermillion and will have similar decals and racing stripes. The performance units will be placed on sale at hometown dealerships.
Mr. Tasca told the dealers that the market for "muscle cars" -- those over 326 horsepower -- is approximately 700,000 units annually. He also noted that high performance car owners are more concerned with mechanical and handling characteristics than with styling. He cited an independent market survey which revealed that 60 per cent of muscle car owners said they look for overall performance and handling ability, but only 22.5 per cent buy on the basis of styling.
The Tasca seminar is housed in a specially designed 40-foot van stocked with a Boss Mustang for the street and thousands of dollars worth of testing and analysis machines and the tools to keep performance cars performing. The van has a self-contained stage from which the seminars are conducted.
The seminar includes a demonstration by three of the top racing mechanics in the country -- Billy Loomis, John Healey, and Bill Gilbert -- who convert a factory car into a car ready to take on any competition at the track. And they do it in a matter of hours.
While the mechanics are demonstrating their skills in servicing performance cars for dealership parts and service personnel, Bob Tasca is busy telling the dealers and their sales staffs how to sell them. Mr. Tasca is a Rhode Island Ford dealer whose nickname, "Mr. Performance," is copyrighted. He is Ford's most agressive -- and most successful -- performance car dealer.
Tasca's number one driver is Billy Lawton, one of the finest drag racers in the eastern part of the country. Lawton was among the leading point winners last year in Region One of the National Hot Rod Association. Driving a SS/EA Mustang Cobra Jet, he won 96 of 107 races last year. The nine-year drag racing veteran travels with the Tasca seminar demonstrating his prowess on the local strips.
The performance seminar appearances are generally supplemented by appearances of Ford Division's new Total Performance Shows or Drag Teams. The Total Performance shows include displays of muscle cars and the parts that make them run while the drag teams do the actual running in their Fairlane Cobra and Mach I Mustang team cars. The shows and teams have been appearing at dealerships and raceways around the country since early this year.
The Tasca seminar made its debut in May this year at Pittsburgh. With its Kansas City appearance, Friday, November 7, the seminar is launching a busy fall schedule that will take it throughout the midwest.
It's all part of Ford Division's new emphasis for '70: To make Ford's production cars the "goingest things" around and to make Ford dealerships from coast-to-coast "Performance Headquarters, U.S.A."
# # #
11-7/69
Regional Public Relations Office
One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Ill. 60601
Telephone: (312) 321-0370
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KANSAS CITY, MO. -- Nearly 500 district Ford dealers, their representatives and the press attended the Tasca Dealer Performance Seminar today at the Kansas City International Raceway, 8200 Noland Road.
Traveling from city to city, the unique seminar is designed to train Ford salesmen and service technicians to be the best in the business - the business of selling and servicing high performance cars and the myriad of parts that makes them run.
As a special attraction, Kansas City district dealers participated in a drive-away of 200 specially-built performance cars -- 100 Mustang Mach I's equipped with 351 and 428 high performance engines, and 100 Torino Cobras equipped with 429 Cobra engines. The Mach I's are painted Grabber Orange with a black racing stripe along each side panel and black Twister Special decals on each rear fender. The Torinos are painted Vermillion and will have similar decals and racing stripes. The performance units will be placed on sale at hometown dealerships.
Mr. Tasca told the dealers that the market for "muscle cars" -- those over 326 horsepower -- is approximately 700,000 units annually. He also noted that high performance car owners are more concerned with mechanical and handling characteristics than with styling. He cited an independent market survey which revealed that 60 per cent of muscle car owners said they look for overall performance and handling ability, but only 22.5 per cent buy on the basis of styling.
The Tasca seminar is housed in a specially designed 40-foot van stocked with a Boss Mustang for the street and thousands of dollars worth of testing and analysis machines and the tools to keep performance cars performing. The van has a self-contained stage from which the seminars are conducted.
The seminar includes a demonstration by three of the top racing mechanics in the country -- Billy Loomis, John Healey, and Bill Gilbert -- who convert a factory car into a car ready to take on any competition at the track. And they do it in a matter of hours.
While the mechanics are demonstrating their skills in servicing performance cars for dealership parts and service personnel, Bob Tasca is busy telling the dealers and their sales staffs how to sell them. Mr. Tasca is a Rhode Island Ford dealer whose nickname, "Mr. Performance," is copyrighted. He is Ford's most agressive -- and most successful -- performance car dealer.
Tasca's number one driver is Billy Lawton, one of the finest drag racers in the eastern part of the country. Lawton was among the leading point winners last year in Region One of the National Hot Rod Association. Driving a SS/EA Mustang Cobra Jet, he won 96 of 107 races last year. The nine-year drag racing veteran travels with the Tasca seminar demonstrating his prowess on the local strips.
The performance seminar appearances are generally supplemented by appearances of Ford Division's new Total Performance Shows or Drag Teams. The Total Performance shows include displays of muscle cars and the parts that make them run while the drag teams do the actual running in their Fairlane Cobra and Mach I Mustang team cars. The shows and teams have been appearing at dealerships and raceways around the country since early this year.
The Tasca seminar made its debut in May this year at Pittsburgh. With its Kansas City appearance, Friday, November 7, the seminar is launching a busy fall schedule that will take it throughout the midwest.
It's all part of Ford Division's new emphasis for '70: To make Ford's production cars the "goingest things" around and to make Ford dealerships from coast-to-coast "Performance Headquarters, U.S.A."
# # #
11-7/69
KANSAS CITY DISTRICT'S TOTAL PERFORMANCE DAY
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1969
SALES PROGRAM
9:00 - 9:30 A.M. Registration: Dealers & Sales Managers (Area 3)
9:30 - 10:00 A.M. Opening Remarks: Mr. C. V. Toussaint
Review of Ford's Total Performance
Program - Mr. J. L. Heisler, Special
Promotions Coordinator - Ford Divi-
sion. (Area 3)
10:00 - 11:45 A.M. Muscle Market and
High Performance
Dollar: Mr. Bob Tasca (Area 3)
11:45-12:00 Noon Professional Drag
Demonstration: Mr. Hubert Platt (Area 5)
12:00 - 1:00 P.M. L U N C H (Area 6)
1:00 - 3:30 P.M. Dealer Drag Race: Group "A" (Dealers or Sales Managers -
only one per dealership) - Zones A, C,
D, E, F, G. (Area 5)
Dealer Slalom
Road Race: Group "B" (Dealers or Sales Managers -
only one per dealership) - Zones H, I,
J, K, L, M, N. (Area 4)
After Dealer Drag Group "A" has made their run, they will
compete in Slalom Road Race. (Area 4)
After Dealer Group "B" has finished driving The Road Course,
they will compete in The Drag Race. (Area 5)
Dealers waiting to drive in The Drag Race or Slalom Road
Race will have their pictures taken with Mr. Bob Tasca
at that time.
3:30 P.M. TROPHY PRESENTATION for all Zones. (Area 7)
4:00 P.M. DRIVE OUT of "TWISTER SPECIAL" UNITS (Area 8)
* * * * * 0 * * * * *
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1969
SALES PROGRAM
9:00 - 9:30 A.M. Registration: Dealers & Sales Managers (Area 3)
9:30 - 10:00 A.M. Opening Remarks: Mr. C. V. Toussaint
Review of Ford's Total Performance
Program - Mr. J. L. Heisler, Special
Promotions Coordinator - Ford Divi-
sion. (Area 3)
10:00 - 11:45 A.M. Muscle Market and
High Performance
Dollar: Mr. Bob Tasca (Area 3)
11:45-12:00 Noon Professional Drag
Demonstration: Mr. Hubert Platt (Area 5)
12:00 - 1:00 P.M. L U N C H (Area 6)
1:00 - 3:30 P.M. Dealer Drag Race: Group "A" (Dealers or Sales Managers -
only one per dealership) - Zones A, C,
D, E, F, G. (Area 5)
Dealer Slalom
Road Race: Group "B" (Dealers or Sales Managers -
only one per dealership) - Zones H, I,
J, K, L, M, N. (Area 4)
After Dealer Drag Group "A" has made their run, they will
compete in Slalom Road Race. (Area 4)
After Dealer Group "B" has finished driving The Road Course,
they will compete in The Drag Race. (Area 5)
Dealers waiting to drive in The Drag Race or Slalom Road
Race will have their pictures taken with Mr. Bob Tasca
at that time.
3:30 P.M. TROPHY PRESENTATION for all Zones. (Area 7)
4:00 P.M. DRIVE OUT of "TWISTER SPECIAL" UNITS (Area 8)
* * * * * 0 * * * * *
This Performance Participation Award was handed out after the Total Performance Day and signed by the KC District Sales Manager, C.V. Toussaint.
NEWS FROM THE WORLD OF FORD
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Return of the Twister
On November 7, 1969, a Twister hit Kansas City Ford dealers' showroom and was a smashing success. Now, 15 years later, the Twister returns.
The original Twister was a high-performance version of Ford Mustang and Torino and was an immediate sell-out hit with performance car buffs. The 1985 Twister is a Mustang with a 210-horsepower V-8 engine, 5-speed manual transmission and special exterior trim.
"This one's going to sell out, too," says Joe Heisler. "It is an exclusive, limited Kansas City special edition car and Ford dealers already have taken orders for one-third of the scheduled production."
The 15th anniversary of the original Twister and the introduction of the '85 version will be celebrated at a luncheon next Wednesday at the Marriott Hotel at I-35 and Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, Kansas.
Several of the original Twisters will be on display, courtesy of a local Twisters owners group, along with the '85 models. Members of that group and area Ford dealers will be honored at that luncheon.
-------
REGIONAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE, ANTIOCH STATION, PO BOX 11009, KANSAS CITY, MO. 64119 TELEPHONE (816) 459-1167
TWISTER SPECIAL UPDATE #2 - NOVEMBER 1984
Dear Fellow Twister Owners:
Not much has happened since my last letter as far as location of more Twisters is concerned. However, the real news this time comes from Ford and started back last May. As it was only in the planning stages when I last wrote, I could not say anything about it.
On November 6th, 7th and 8th, in Springfield, Mo, Kansas City and Wichita, KS, the Kansas City Sales District was once again struck by a Twister. The debut of the 1985 Mustang GT 'Twister II' was held at these 3 cities with a siminar (sic) and luncheon. At Wichita there was a cocktail and dinner party in celebration of Twister II. Figuring one good turn deserves another, 102 Twister II's were produced for the Kansas City Sales District with their release coming 15 years to the day in Kansas City, November 7, 1984.
Kathy and I were invited to tour with the Kansas City staff at these siminars (sic). I never really understood the meaning of the song "On the Road Again" until the week of November 5th. From the time we left home Monday until we return Friday afternoon, we put 925 miles on the van. I think the Twister had the best go of it, he just went along for the ride.
Enclosed are copies of the Twister II press release kit for those of you who haven't already received one. There is also a Xerox copy of the Twister II dash plaque and alabaster coaster that came with each car. The Kansas City District did a far better job of documenting the Twister II. At this time, I have the serial numbers of 90 out of the 102 twister II's, the remaining 12 should be along any day.
Also enclosed is the Twister Special Story which was run in a recent publication by the Shelby Owners of America, Inc. You will note that we have just recently found out that there were actually only 96 Twister Mustang's produced. Further research indicates that there were probably only 90 Torino Cobra Twister's and 4 Torino Ranchero Twister's, making a total of 190, 1970 Twister Specials.
Two things came to my attention in August. If you would like copies of your Twister Mustang's invoices, they are available from Lois C. Eminger, P.O. Box 220, Dearborn, Mi., 48121. The cost is $20.00. Also, one set of the reproduced stripes and decals are available from a fellow owner who has totaled his Twister. He has asked $175.00 for them. These are on a first-come basis. If you are interested, give me a call.
Until the next update, I wish you all a happy holiday season and the best of New Years. Maybe 1985 will bring our long-awaited reunion.
Terry
Terry Fritts
7520 N.W. Rochester Rd.
Topeka, Ks. 66617
913-288-0155
Dear Fellow Twister Owners:
Not much has happened since my last letter as far as location of more Twisters is concerned. However, the real news this time comes from Ford and started back last May. As it was only in the planning stages when I last wrote, I could not say anything about it.
On November 6th, 7th and 8th, in Springfield, Mo, Kansas City and Wichita, KS, the Kansas City Sales District was once again struck by a Twister. The debut of the 1985 Mustang GT 'Twister II' was held at these 3 cities with a siminar (sic) and luncheon. At Wichita there was a cocktail and dinner party in celebration of Twister II. Figuring one good turn deserves another, 102 Twister II's were produced for the Kansas City Sales District with their release coming 15 years to the day in Kansas City, November 7, 1984.
Kathy and I were invited to tour with the Kansas City staff at these siminars (sic). I never really understood the meaning of the song "On the Road Again" until the week of November 5th. From the time we left home Monday until we return Friday afternoon, we put 925 miles on the van. I think the Twister had the best go of it, he just went along for the ride.
Enclosed are copies of the Twister II press release kit for those of you who haven't already received one. There is also a Xerox copy of the Twister II dash plaque and alabaster coaster that came with each car. The Kansas City District did a far better job of documenting the Twister II. At this time, I have the serial numbers of 90 out of the 102 twister II's, the remaining 12 should be along any day.
Also enclosed is the Twister Special Story which was run in a recent publication by the Shelby Owners of America, Inc. You will note that we have just recently found out that there were actually only 96 Twister Mustang's produced. Further research indicates that there were probably only 90 Torino Cobra Twister's and 4 Torino Ranchero Twister's, making a total of 190, 1970 Twister Specials.
Two things came to my attention in August. If you would like copies of your Twister Mustang's invoices, they are available from Lois C. Eminger, P.O. Box 220, Dearborn, Mi., 48121. The cost is $20.00. Also, one set of the reproduced stripes and decals are available from a fellow owner who has totaled his Twister. He has asked $175.00 for them. These are on a first-come basis. If you are interested, give me a call.
Until the next update, I wish you all a happy holiday season and the best of New Years. Maybe 1985 will bring our long-awaited reunion.
Terry
Terry Fritts
7520 N.W. Rochester Rd.
Topeka, Ks. 66617
913-288-0155
TWISTER SPECIAL UPDATE #3 - MAY 1985
Dear Fellow Twister Owners:
No, the Twister Special Mach 1 on pages 40 and 41 of the May issue of Mustang Monthly, does not belong to Terry Fritz, nor does it belong to me! This beautifull (sic) example, the only 351C-4V, 4 speed located to date, belongs to Laura Klein of Milwaukee, Wisc.
fter 3 years research, the Twister Mustang serial number list is complete. The number produced, the number located and the serial number range are as follows;
Produced Located Serial Number Range
351C 4V 4 speed 9 1
428 SCJ 4 speed 24 5
351C 4V Automatic 39 9
428 SCJ Automatic 24 10
96 25
I now have a serial number list for the 90 Twister Special Torino Cobra's. To date we have located 6 of these cars. I would appreciate your assistance in locating any remaining cars. The Torino serial numbers are as follows:
0A38J131596 thru 0A38J131625
0A38J133412 thru 0A38J131470
0A38J134632
I am also told that there were 4 or 5 Twister Special Ranchero GT's produced. I am currently working on getting a serial number pull for all 1970 Rancero's (sic) shipped to the Kansas City Sales District. Will furnish more information on these if it becomes available.
In update #2, I told you of the 1985 Mustang GT Twister II's. The Kansas City Sales District has informed me that there were only 90, not 102 of these cars produced and marketed, 76 GT hardtops and 14 GT convertibles. I have a complete serial number list of these cars also.
Kathy and I felt very lucky to get a chance to meet some of you in person at a few of the Mustang car shows last year. Therefore, we are going to include a tentative 1985 show schedule with this letter in hopes of seeing you again and possibly getting the chance to meet a few more of you. Remember, these shows are only tentative and subject to change or cancellation. If you want to know for sure if we will be there, drop us a note or give us a call about a week before the show date.
A very special Thank You goes to Louis C. Eminger for her assistance in completing the Twister Special Mustang serial number list. Remember, Louis can furnish Ford's carbon copies of your Twister Mustangs invoice. Her address is P.O. Box 220, Dearborn, Mi. 48121. The cost is $20.00.
Also, a continued Thank You to Joe and Fred of Ford's Kansas City District Sales Office for their assistance in the documentation of the Twisters, both I's and II's.
I have very much enjoyed writing these newsletters and sharing the Twister research with you. I plan to continue them as new information becomes available. I don't mind underwriting the cost of these letters as long as my fellow owners like getting them. However, in some cases, I have heard nothing from some of you for quite a while. If the back of your envelope is marked with an 'X', this will be the last update you will receive unless I hear something from you before the next newsletter. I must assume that you either no longer own your Twister or you are not interested in any additional information concerning the Twister Specials. I'm sorry to do this, but it will allow me to reduce my costs and continue these updates to those wanting them.
Until the next update, I wish you all a good summer and hopefully we'll get to see you at a Mustang show this summer.
Terry
Terry Fritts
7520 N.W. Rochester Rd.
Topeka, Ks. 66617
913-288-0155
One late addition. Help! Help! Help!
One of our fellow owners had a mishap with his just completed restoration of his 428 4 speed car. He was trailering it to its first show and the hitch on the trailer broke. Extensive damage to the car, but it's fixable. He is in need of a new stripe kit. Those who purchased more than one set, interested in helping him out should contact Howard Farmer, P.O. Box 365, Drumright, Ok. (918) 352-9609. Our hearts go out to Howard and Tammye, just think if it had been one of our cars. The car only had liability insurance on it, so there will be no help from the insurance company. Fortunately, no one was injured. They figure possibly two years to restore it again, but they swear it will be back again. Good luck to them.
Also, just learned of a 428 Auto for sale. Call for details if interested!
So long for now,
Terry
Dear Fellow Twister Owners:
No, the Twister Special Mach 1 on pages 40 and 41 of the May issue of Mustang Monthly, does not belong to Terry Fritz, nor does it belong to me! This beautifull (sic) example, the only 351C-4V, 4 speed located to date, belongs to Laura Klein of Milwaukee, Wisc.
fter 3 years research, the Twister Mustang serial number list is complete. The number produced, the number located and the serial number range are as follows;
Produced Located Serial Number Range
351C 4V 4 speed 9 1
428 SCJ 4 speed 24 5
351C 4V Automatic 39 9
428 SCJ Automatic 24 10
96 25
I now have a serial number list for the 90 Twister Special Torino Cobra's. To date we have located 6 of these cars. I would appreciate your assistance in locating any remaining cars. The Torino serial numbers are as follows:
0A38J131596 thru 0A38J131625
0A38J133412 thru 0A38J131470
0A38J134632
I am also told that there were 4 or 5 Twister Special Ranchero GT's produced. I am currently working on getting a serial number pull for all 1970 Rancero's (sic) shipped to the Kansas City Sales District. Will furnish more information on these if it becomes available.
In update #2, I told you of the 1985 Mustang GT Twister II's. The Kansas City Sales District has informed me that there were only 90, not 102 of these cars produced and marketed, 76 GT hardtops and 14 GT convertibles. I have a complete serial number list of these cars also.
Kathy and I felt very lucky to get a chance to meet some of you in person at a few of the Mustang car shows last year. Therefore, we are going to include a tentative 1985 show schedule with this letter in hopes of seeing you again and possibly getting the chance to meet a few more of you. Remember, these shows are only tentative and subject to change or cancellation. If you want to know for sure if we will be there, drop us a note or give us a call about a week before the show date.
A very special Thank You goes to Louis C. Eminger for her assistance in completing the Twister Special Mustang serial number list. Remember, Louis can furnish Ford's carbon copies of your Twister Mustangs invoice. Her address is P.O. Box 220, Dearborn, Mi. 48121. The cost is $20.00.
Also, a continued Thank You to Joe and Fred of Ford's Kansas City District Sales Office for their assistance in the documentation of the Twisters, both I's and II's.
I have very much enjoyed writing these newsletters and sharing the Twister research with you. I plan to continue them as new information becomes available. I don't mind underwriting the cost of these letters as long as my fellow owners like getting them. However, in some cases, I have heard nothing from some of you for quite a while. If the back of your envelope is marked with an 'X', this will be the last update you will receive unless I hear something from you before the next newsletter. I must assume that you either no longer own your Twister or you are not interested in any additional information concerning the Twister Specials. I'm sorry to do this, but it will allow me to reduce my costs and continue these updates to those wanting them.
Until the next update, I wish you all a good summer and hopefully we'll get to see you at a Mustang show this summer.
Terry
Terry Fritts
7520 N.W. Rochester Rd.
Topeka, Ks. 66617
913-288-0155
One late addition. Help! Help! Help!
One of our fellow owners had a mishap with his just completed restoration of his 428 4 speed car. He was trailering it to its first show and the hitch on the trailer broke. Extensive damage to the car, but it's fixable. He is in need of a new stripe kit. Those who purchased more than one set, interested in helping him out should contact Howard Farmer, P.O. Box 365, Drumright, Ok. (918) 352-9609. Our hearts go out to Howard and Tammye, just think if it had been one of our cars. The car only had liability insurance on it, so there will be no help from the insurance company. Fortunately, no one was injured. They figure possibly two years to restore it again, but they swear it will be back again. Good luck to them.
Also, just learned of a 428 Auto for sale. Call for details if interested!
So long for now,
Terry
TWISTER SPECIAL UPDATE #4 - MAY 1988
Dear Fellow Twister Owners:
It's been a while since my last update. I hope everyone is fine and their cars remain in good shape.
The registry continues to grow with occasional finds still coming in. There are now 30 Twister Mustang's and 10 Twister Torino Cobra's located.
I am currently computerizing the "Registry" to make it easier to keep updated. Enclosed you will find a print of the registry database on your car. As you will see there are several areas lacking completed data concerning you and your car. I would very much appreciate your completion of the form and its return. If there is any information you wish kept private, please mark it accordingly and I will note it so that the personal data is not passed on to anyone else. The area for cost of acquisition will, under no circumstances, be revealed to anyone. The cost information is for my use only so that statistics may be kept to help our fellow owners
determine a fair market value for their cars or provide assistance to owners should they need to process an insurance claim.
If ownership of your car has changed please let me know so that I can keep the registry updated. You might also wish to pass this newsletter on to the new owner as they may be interested in the following subject.
GOOD NEWS FOR MANY OF YOU ! Enough additional cars have been located to allow one more run of the Mustang Twister Special Stripe and Decal kits. The only detail left in the process is to determine the number of sets needed. Due to the suppliers minimum order requirements this, in my mind, will be the last time these kits will be reproduced. The cost is $175.00 per set including delivery. Since I must guaranty (sic) the sale of this additional order, I will require a deposit of at least 50% or $87.50 per set ordered. I will collect the remaining balance due by C.O.D., on delivery for your order via UPS once the kits are completed by the supplier which is anticipated to be July 25th, 1988 based on my order to be placed June 20th, 1988. I must have your order and deposit by June 10th, 1988 for you to be included in this order.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Page 2
Torino Cobra Owners. It is possible to run some extra Twister Decals for use on your cars. The cost is $30.00 per set of two(2) decals. Due to the lower costs, full payment at time of ordering is required.
Don't miss out on this final opportunity to get the most important restoration item for your Twister.
Earthquake & Twister Hit California ! Late last summer, unknown to most California Mustangers, a Twister slipped into Anaheim. Quietly, over the past few months Walt Weiss, his son-in-law and grandson have given Jim Mollencamp's former car a complete facelift. This included a stay at a Whittier paint shop during California's recent earthquake. Luckily, even though sitting on top of the epicenter, the freshly painted Twister sustained no damage, although a can of blue paint came too close for Walt's comfort. Restoration is complete and the California show season has started. California Mustangers have forgotten all about earthquakes these days. Seems they're too busy watching the horizon for a "Twister" is headed their way.
Until the next update, I wish you and yours a great summer. Please update and return your Registry data sheet and once again, if there's any chance you'll ever need a stripe kit for your Mustang or decals for your Torino, don't miss out on this one last chance.
Terry Fritts
Twister Special Registry
7520 N.W. Rochester Rd.
Topeka, Ks. 66617
913-288-0155 (nightly after 7PM)
Dear Fellow Twister Owners:
It's been a while since my last update. I hope everyone is fine and their cars remain in good shape.
The registry continues to grow with occasional finds still coming in. There are now 30 Twister Mustang's and 10 Twister Torino Cobra's located.
I am currently computerizing the "Registry" to make it easier to keep updated. Enclosed you will find a print of the registry database on your car. As you will see there are several areas lacking completed data concerning you and your car. I would very much appreciate your completion of the form and its return. If there is any information you wish kept private, please mark it accordingly and I will note it so that the personal data is not passed on to anyone else. The area for cost of acquisition will, under no circumstances, be revealed to anyone. The cost information is for my use only so that statistics may be kept to help our fellow owners
determine a fair market value for their cars or provide assistance to owners should they need to process an insurance claim.
If ownership of your car has changed please let me know so that I can keep the registry updated. You might also wish to pass this newsletter on to the new owner as they may be interested in the following subject.
GOOD NEWS FOR MANY OF YOU ! Enough additional cars have been located to allow one more run of the Mustang Twister Special Stripe and Decal kits. The only detail left in the process is to determine the number of sets needed. Due to the suppliers minimum order requirements this, in my mind, will be the last time these kits will be reproduced. The cost is $175.00 per set including delivery. Since I must guaranty (sic) the sale of this additional order, I will require a deposit of at least 50% or $87.50 per set ordered. I will collect the remaining balance due by C.O.D., on delivery for your order via UPS once the kits are completed by the supplier which is anticipated to be July 25th, 1988 based on my order to be placed June 20th, 1988. I must have your order and deposit by June 10th, 1988 for you to be included in this order.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Page 2
Torino Cobra Owners. It is possible to run some extra Twister Decals for use on your cars. The cost is $30.00 per set of two(2) decals. Due to the lower costs, full payment at time of ordering is required.
Don't miss out on this final opportunity to get the most important restoration item for your Twister.
Earthquake & Twister Hit California ! Late last summer, unknown to most California Mustangers, a Twister slipped into Anaheim. Quietly, over the past few months Walt Weiss, his son-in-law and grandson have given Jim Mollencamp's former car a complete facelift. This included a stay at a Whittier paint shop during California's recent earthquake. Luckily, even though sitting on top of the epicenter, the freshly painted Twister sustained no damage, although a can of blue paint came too close for Walt's comfort. Restoration is complete and the California show season has started. California Mustangers have forgotten all about earthquakes these days. Seems they're too busy watching the horizon for a "Twister" is headed their way.
Until the next update, I wish you and yours a great summer. Please update and return your Registry data sheet and once again, if there's any chance you'll ever need a stripe kit for your Mustang or decals for your Torino, don't miss out on this one last chance.
Terry Fritts
Twister Special Registry
7520 N.W. Rochester Rd.
Topeka, Ks. 66617
913-288-0155 (nightly after 7PM)
Editor's Note: Some of the information contained in the next section is WRONG and has since been corrected and updated both within the transcribed section below the pages and on the 1970's Muscle Page of the new twisterspecial.com located at the link mentioned. For the sake of history, I will be transcribing exactly as was written at the time of publication with notations as to the corrected information.
THE TWISTER SPECIALS
by Terry Fritts
The Twister Specials, a group of 96 specially ordered and consecutively numbered Mach 1's, were a promotional Mustang made exclusively for the Ford Kansas City Sales District dealers. Also produced were (86) incorrect, should be 90 Torino Cobra’s with 429 SCJ engines and (4) incorrect, should be 2 Torino Ranchero’s with (unknown statistics) 429 SCJ engines, updated statistics can be found here.
Over the past several years I’ve had the pleasure of talking to several current and former Ford employees. Located in Detroit, Dearborn, or Kansas City years ago they have provided enough information and documentation to track the Twisters evolution.
To set the background for our story we must back up in time to late in the 1969 production year. The Boss 302 has been highly successful. The Boss 429 is being produced to meet NASCAR production requirements and the phase out of the Shelby/Mustang has begun. Ford is coming in late but very strong to the performance car mass production era. Sales plans for the 1970 models will concentrate heavily on special promotions to help Ford capture a larger share of the high performance market, an estimated market of some 800,000 cars in 1970 alone. It’s here that the Twister Story begins to unfold.
In Detroit, Ford’s Special Promotion Division was approached by the President of American Raceway's, Inc. (ARI), a close personal friend of “Bunkie” Knudsen, Ford’s president. He requested pace cars for use at five of his existing or planned race tracks. Ten 1970 Mustangs were built. Five Mach 1’s and five convertibles. Each were equipped with 428 SCJ's and four speed (C6) transmissions. All ten cars were sent to a special Ford garage in Dearborn where the drivetrains were completely balanced and blueprinted for high speed requirements for pacing NASCAR races. Distinctive side stripes and rear quarter decals having the appropriate track logo were designed. Plans called for color coordination of the tracks and pace cars. Late in the production phase disaster struck, ARI went bankrupt. Ford had made a large investment in a promotion destined for failure.
***
Meanwhile, back in Kansas City, unaware of the ill-fated ARI project, the District Sales Office was approaching Detroit concerning some promotional cars. Kansas City had no idea how welcomed their request was. Special Promotions work on the ARI project was not to be in vain.
The ARI logo was removed from the side stripes with new designs containing the Ford oval and a Mach 1 logo. Rear quarter panel decals were replaced with a tornado background and the Twister Special logo. Certainly everyone knows of the midwest's reputation for these quick and high powered storms
***
All information between the asterisks was later proved false. In order to make the ARI project possible, because of the high investments costs, Special Promotions had to find a Ford District willing to do a promotional car, with around 100 cars pre-sold to District dealers. The Kansas City Sales District Sales Office (DSO 53) stepped up and signed on with the project. Ford was encouraging use of District special promotion cars as part of their 1970 high performance marketing plans. Special Promotions work on the ARI project would be the pattern used to create the Twister Specials. As Note; None of the ARI cars were converted into Twister Special Mustangs and still exist today.
The Twister Specials - Page 2
The original order was placed for 100 Mach 1’s, light on convenience and luxury, heavy on performance options. Goodies included 428 SCJ engines, drag pack, competition suspension, power front disk brakes, shaker hood scoop and Goodyear F70x14 Raised White Letter Polyglass tires. The only non-performance options were an AM Radio and Tinted Glass. Half the order was to have been equipped with C6 automatic transmissions and 3.91 traction-lok differentials. The remainder with four-speed manual transmissions and 3:91 traction-loks.
Upon receipt of the order in Dearborn there were not enough 428 SCJ engines on hand. The 48 available 428 SCJ’s were used and the remaining 48 cars were equipped with the newly announced 351 Cleveland 4V engines and 3.50 traction-loks. Except for the power train combinations, all of the Twister Mustangs were produced in Grabber Orange and equipped identically. All 96, 1970 Twister's were built at Dearborn in the early to middle part of October 1969. At the same time, in Atlanta, the 90, 1970 Twister Torino Cobra's were being produced in Vermilion having either 429 CJ or 429SCJ engines. The Twister Mustangs were produced first. The Twisters were in the 118,000 VIN series while the 10 ARI pace cars were in the 120,000 series.
The cars were shipped via rail to Kansas City then transferred by truck to Ford's Claycomo assembly plant transportation lot. Stripes and decals were applied by a detailing firm under contract with Ford’s Special Promotions Division. Completely finished, the cars were once again trucked transferred, this time as the main attraction for Kansas City’s special day.
On Friday, November 7, 1969, Kansas City Sales District dealers participated in a special promotion held at the Kansas City International Raceway called “Total Performance Day.” Featured attractions were special appearances by the Ford Drag Team, Ford’s Total Performance Show and Bob Tasca’s High Performance Show. These teams were a traveling caravan touring the country promoting Ford’s high performance cars and after market muscle parts. Morning seminars were held for the dealers, their sales, parts and service managers. The afternoon brought exhibitions by the Drag Teams and then a chance for participants to try their luck on the road race course or the quarter mile. Trophies were presented to the winners in each of the district’s 13 sales zones. Participation certificates were furnished all who dared a shot at the clock on the road course or quarter mile.
Around 4:00 P.M., after a full day of awesome high performance demonstrations the dealers were taken to an area containing the specially prepared, high performance, Twister Specials. Before their eyes, awaiting the drive home or shipment to their dealerships, were 96 Grabber Orange Mach 1’s and 90 Calypso Coral Torino Cobra’s. To a Mustang and Ford enthusiast, what a beautiful sight that must have been.
NOTE: Without the 1970 Twisters being produced to defray the cost of the ARI project, there never wouldn't have been any ARI pace cars produced!!
The Twister Specials - Page 3
Currently Known Production Figures
Mustang Mach 1's
Stolen
Existing or
Produced Located Totalled
351C 4V 4 speed 3.50 traction-lok 9 2 0
351C 4V Automatic 3.50 traction-lok 39 15 1
428 SCJ 4 Speed 3.91 traction-lok 24 13 1
428 SCJ Automatic 3.91 traction-lok 24 15 1
---- ---- ----
96 45 3
Torino Cobras
Stolen
Existing or
Produced Located Totalled
429CJ/SCJ 4 speed or Automatic
3.50, 3.91 or 4.30 traction-lok 90 23 0
Torino Rancero's
Stolen
Existing or
Produced Located Totalled
429CJ/SCJ 4 speed or Automatic
3.50, 3.91 or 4.30 traction-lok 4 0 0
rev. 9/11/91
by Terry Fritts
The Twister Specials, a group of 96 specially ordered and consecutively numbered Mach 1's, were a promotional Mustang made exclusively for the Ford Kansas City Sales District dealers. Also produced were (86) incorrect, should be 90 Torino Cobra’s with 429 SCJ engines and (4) incorrect, should be 2 Torino Ranchero’s with (unknown statistics) 429 SCJ engines, updated statistics can be found here.
Over the past several years I’ve had the pleasure of talking to several current and former Ford employees. Located in Detroit, Dearborn, or Kansas City years ago they have provided enough information and documentation to track the Twisters evolution.
To set the background for our story we must back up in time to late in the 1969 production year. The Boss 302 has been highly successful. The Boss 429 is being produced to meet NASCAR production requirements and the phase out of the Shelby/Mustang has begun. Ford is coming in late but very strong to the performance car mass production era. Sales plans for the 1970 models will concentrate heavily on special promotions to help Ford capture a larger share of the high performance market, an estimated market of some 800,000 cars in 1970 alone. It’s here that the Twister Story begins to unfold.
In Detroit, Ford’s Special Promotion Division was approached by the President of American Raceway's, Inc. (ARI), a close personal friend of “Bunkie” Knudsen, Ford’s president. He requested pace cars for use at five of his existing or planned race tracks. Ten 1970 Mustangs were built. Five Mach 1’s and five convertibles. Each were equipped with 428 SCJ's and four speed (C6) transmissions. All ten cars were sent to a special Ford garage in Dearborn where the drivetrains were completely balanced and blueprinted for high speed requirements for pacing NASCAR races. Distinctive side stripes and rear quarter decals having the appropriate track logo were designed. Plans called for color coordination of the tracks and pace cars. Late in the production phase disaster struck, ARI went bankrupt. Ford had made a large investment in a promotion destined for failure.
***
Meanwhile, back in Kansas City, unaware of the ill-fated ARI project, the District Sales Office was approaching Detroit concerning some promotional cars. Kansas City had no idea how welcomed their request was. Special Promotions work on the ARI project was not to be in vain.
The ARI logo was removed from the side stripes with new designs containing the Ford oval and a Mach 1 logo. Rear quarter panel decals were replaced with a tornado background and the Twister Special logo. Certainly everyone knows of the midwest's reputation for these quick and high powered storms
***
All information between the asterisks was later proved false. In order to make the ARI project possible, because of the high investments costs, Special Promotions had to find a Ford District willing to do a promotional car, with around 100 cars pre-sold to District dealers. The Kansas City Sales District Sales Office (DSO 53) stepped up and signed on with the project. Ford was encouraging use of District special promotion cars as part of their 1970 high performance marketing plans. Special Promotions work on the ARI project would be the pattern used to create the Twister Specials. As Note; None of the ARI cars were converted into Twister Special Mustangs and still exist today.
The Twister Specials - Page 2
The original order was placed for 100 Mach 1’s, light on convenience and luxury, heavy on performance options. Goodies included 428 SCJ engines, drag pack, competition suspension, power front disk brakes, shaker hood scoop and Goodyear F70x14 Raised White Letter Polyglass tires. The only non-performance options were an AM Radio and Tinted Glass. Half the order was to have been equipped with C6 automatic transmissions and 3.91 traction-lok differentials. The remainder with four-speed manual transmissions and 3:91 traction-loks.
Upon receipt of the order in Dearborn there were not enough 428 SCJ engines on hand. The 48 available 428 SCJ’s were used and the remaining 48 cars were equipped with the newly announced 351 Cleveland 4V engines and 3.50 traction-loks. Except for the power train combinations, all of the Twister Mustangs were produced in Grabber Orange and equipped identically. All 96, 1970 Twister's were built at Dearborn in the early to middle part of October 1969. At the same time, in Atlanta, the 90, 1970 Twister Torino Cobra's were being produced in Vermilion having either 429 CJ or 429SCJ engines. The Twister Mustangs were produced first. The Twisters were in the 118,000 VIN series while the 10 ARI pace cars were in the 120,000 series.
The cars were shipped via rail to Kansas City then transferred by truck to Ford's Claycomo assembly plant transportation lot. Stripes and decals were applied by a detailing firm under contract with Ford’s Special Promotions Division. Completely finished, the cars were once again trucked transferred, this time as the main attraction for Kansas City’s special day.
On Friday, November 7, 1969, Kansas City Sales District dealers participated in a special promotion held at the Kansas City International Raceway called “Total Performance Day.” Featured attractions were special appearances by the Ford Drag Team, Ford’s Total Performance Show and Bob Tasca’s High Performance Show. These teams were a traveling caravan touring the country promoting Ford’s high performance cars and after market muscle parts. Morning seminars were held for the dealers, their sales, parts and service managers. The afternoon brought exhibitions by the Drag Teams and then a chance for participants to try their luck on the road race course or the quarter mile. Trophies were presented to the winners in each of the district’s 13 sales zones. Participation certificates were furnished all who dared a shot at the clock on the road course or quarter mile.
Around 4:00 P.M., after a full day of awesome high performance demonstrations the dealers were taken to an area containing the specially prepared, high performance, Twister Specials. Before their eyes, awaiting the drive home or shipment to their dealerships, were 96 Grabber Orange Mach 1’s and 90 Calypso Coral Torino Cobra’s. To a Mustang and Ford enthusiast, what a beautiful sight that must have been.
NOTE: Without the 1970 Twisters being produced to defray the cost of the ARI project, there never wouldn't have been any ARI pace cars produced!!
The Twister Specials - Page 3
Currently Known Production Figures
Mustang Mach 1's
Stolen
Existing or
Produced Located Totalled
351C 4V 4 speed 3.50 traction-lok 9 2 0
351C 4V Automatic 3.50 traction-lok 39 15 1
428 SCJ 4 Speed 3.91 traction-lok 24 13 1
428 SCJ Automatic 3.91 traction-lok 24 15 1
---- ---- ----
96 45 3
Torino Cobras
Stolen
Existing or
Produced Located Totalled
429CJ/SCJ 4 speed or Automatic
3.50, 3.91 or 4.30 traction-lok 90 23 0
Torino Rancero's
Stolen
Existing or
Produced Located Totalled
429CJ/SCJ 4 speed or Automatic
3.50, 3.91 or 4.30 traction-lok 4 0 0
rev. 9/11/91
Twister Special Update - August 1997
Dear Fellow Owners:
It's been a long while since I've contacted all of you. Yes, I am still alive and well, but extremely hard to get ahold, of as many of you are well aware.
Several things have changed in my life the past 5 years. Some for the good and some not. Kathy and I divorced in 1993 and I have played Mr. Mom to the kids about 60% of the time since then. Darin turned 18 in July and is on his way to college this fall. Stephanie was 15 in July and going to high school. Seems as if just yesterday they were both toddlers at the many car shows we went to. My stable of Mustangs now totals four. The Twister, a 1972 Coupe(Darin's), a 1992 LX (Stephanie's) and my latest playtoy a 1996 Cobra. Wonder where those two kids got their desire for Mustang's ???????
I am still employed by the railroad but it is now the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway having undergone a merger in 1995. We were given two years to consolidate the two companies computer systems and I've spent way too many long days and weeks on that task. Have only had time for 1-2 shows a year between work and kids.
The kids and I along with six others from Kansas City made the 30th Anniversary MCA show at Charlotte in 1994. Had the chance to personally meet a couple more of the Twister owners. It was a tough trip to make but what a weekend. Good friends and family, great cars, meeting fellow owners and vendors in person and we even brought home one of five awards of excellence in the 69-70 Mach 1 class out of about 40 cars entered. We did encounter a fake Twister and I really enjoyed making it a miserable weekend for him and the fake car.
To date there are 50 Twister Mustang's accounted for and 25 Twister Torino's. I still have some Mustang stripe kits, some Torino kits and about 20 1985 Twister II kits on hand.
The main reason for this update is the enclosed information concerning the Ertl "Twister Special" model being produced by Town and Country Toys. I just recently learned of them and contacted Dean. Somehow he was able to get the Twister serial numbers but has no info on the current owners. I volunteered to make this mailing for him if he would furnish me the info, envelopes and postage. I know there are many of you who don't want your address publicly known so he provided all the necessary info. I am taking this opportunity to say hi and then add the gum labels and send them on to you. It is not too late to order your matching serial number car from Dean. Just let them know you are one of the registry owners who just got this info from me.
Terry Fritts
7520 NW Rochester Rd.
Topeka, Ks. 66617
or E-Mail - [email protected]
Dear Fellow Owners:
It's been a long while since I've contacted all of you. Yes, I am still alive and well, but extremely hard to get ahold, of as many of you are well aware.
Several things have changed in my life the past 5 years. Some for the good and some not. Kathy and I divorced in 1993 and I have played Mr. Mom to the kids about 60% of the time since then. Darin turned 18 in July and is on his way to college this fall. Stephanie was 15 in July and going to high school. Seems as if just yesterday they were both toddlers at the many car shows we went to. My stable of Mustangs now totals four. The Twister, a 1972 Coupe(Darin's), a 1992 LX (Stephanie's) and my latest playtoy a 1996 Cobra. Wonder where those two kids got their desire for Mustang's ???????
I am still employed by the railroad but it is now the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway having undergone a merger in 1995. We were given two years to consolidate the two companies computer systems and I've spent way too many long days and weeks on that task. Have only had time for 1-2 shows a year between work and kids.
The kids and I along with six others from Kansas City made the 30th Anniversary MCA show at Charlotte in 1994. Had the chance to personally meet a couple more of the Twister owners. It was a tough trip to make but what a weekend. Good friends and family, great cars, meeting fellow owners and vendors in person and we even brought home one of five awards of excellence in the 69-70 Mach 1 class out of about 40 cars entered. We did encounter a fake Twister and I really enjoyed making it a miserable weekend for him and the fake car.
To date there are 50 Twister Mustang's accounted for and 25 Twister Torino's. I still have some Mustang stripe kits, some Torino kits and about 20 1985 Twister II kits on hand.
The main reason for this update is the enclosed information concerning the Ertl "Twister Special" model being produced by Town and Country Toys. I just recently learned of them and contacted Dean. Somehow he was able to get the Twister serial numbers but has no info on the current owners. I volunteered to make this mailing for him if he would furnish me the info, envelopes and postage. I know there are many of you who don't want your address publicly known so he provided all the necessary info. I am taking this opportunity to say hi and then add the gum labels and send them on to you. It is not too late to order your matching serial number car from Dean. Just let them know you are one of the registry owners who just got this info from me.
Terry Fritts
7520 NW Rochester Rd.
Topeka, Ks. 66617
or E-Mail - [email protected]
1970 Mustang ARI Pace Cars
Model Produced Located VIN's Invoices
Mach 1 - 428 SCJ 5 1 5 4
Convertible - 428 SCJ 5 5 5 5
1970 Mustang Mach 1 Twister's
Engine/Transmission/Axle Type Produced Located Totaled Stolen
351C 4V 4 speed 3.50 traction-lok 9 2 0 0
351C 4V Automatic 3.50 traction-lok 39 18 1 0
428 SCJ 4 Speed 3.91 traction-lok 24 14 1 0
428 SCJ Automatic 3.91 traction-lok 24 18 2 1
---- ---- ---- ----
96 52 4 1
1970 Torino Cobra Twister's
Engine/Transmission/Axle Type Produced Located Totaled Stolen
429CJ 4 speed 3.50 traction-lok 38 12 0 0
429CJ Automatic 3.50 traction-lok 20 8 0 0
429 SCJ 4 Speed 3.91 traction-lok 12 3 0 0
429 SCJ Automatic 3.91 traction-lok 20 5 0 0
---- ---- ---- ----
90 28 0 0
1970 Torino Ranchero Twister's
Engine/Transmission/Axle Type Produced Located Totaled Stolen
351C 4V Automatic 3.50 traction-lok 4 0 0 0
Editors Note: We now know that Terry's original assumption of 4 Ranchero units was wrong. Only two existed and neither have been accounted for.
1985 Mustang GT Twister II's
Cars Produced - 90
Engine Options: 302 HO Option - 83 302 EFI Option - 7
Body Style: Hardtop GT - 77 Convertible GT - 13
Roof Options: T-Top - 24 Flip Open - 11
Color Options: White - 14 Bright Red - 74 Medium Canyon Red - 1 Silver - 1
2008/2009 Mustang GT Twister's
Cars Produced: Street Versions - 15 Racing Versions - 2
Engine: 4.6L, 24 Valve
Transmission: 5 Speed - 7 Automatic - 8 Tremac 6 Speed - 2
Body Style: Coupe - 13 Convertible - 4
EF-1 - Coups A/T - 2 5 Speed - 1
EF-1 - Convertibles A/T - 1 5 Speed - 0
EF-2 - Coups A/T - 1 5 Speed - 3
EF-2 - Convertibles A/T - 1 5 Speed - 0
EF-3 - Coups A/T - 1 5 Speed - 1
EF-3 - Convertibles A/T - 0 5 Speed - 1
EF-4 - Coups A/T - 1 5 Speed - 2
EF-4 - Convertibles A/T - 0 5 Speed - 0
EF-5 - Coups Tremac 6 Speed - 1
EF-5 - Convertibles Tremac 6 Speed - 1
List above last revised on 05/03/2009 by Terry Fritts
Editor's Note: In an effort to restart the registry, these numbers will be left alone to history and a new tally started.
Model Produced Located VIN's Invoices
Mach 1 - 428 SCJ 5 1 5 4
Convertible - 428 SCJ 5 5 5 5
1970 Mustang Mach 1 Twister's
Engine/Transmission/Axle Type Produced Located Totaled Stolen
351C 4V 4 speed 3.50 traction-lok 9 2 0 0
351C 4V Automatic 3.50 traction-lok 39 18 1 0
428 SCJ 4 Speed 3.91 traction-lok 24 14 1 0
428 SCJ Automatic 3.91 traction-lok 24 18 2 1
---- ---- ---- ----
96 52 4 1
1970 Torino Cobra Twister's
Engine/Transmission/Axle Type Produced Located Totaled Stolen
429CJ 4 speed 3.50 traction-lok 38 12 0 0
429CJ Automatic 3.50 traction-lok 20 8 0 0
429 SCJ 4 Speed 3.91 traction-lok 12 3 0 0
429 SCJ Automatic 3.91 traction-lok 20 5 0 0
---- ---- ---- ----
90 28 0 0
1970 Torino Ranchero Twister's
Engine/Transmission/Axle Type Produced Located Totaled Stolen
351C 4V Automatic 3.50 traction-lok 4 0 0 0
Editors Note: We now know that Terry's original assumption of 4 Ranchero units was wrong. Only two existed and neither have been accounted for.
1985 Mustang GT Twister II's
Cars Produced - 90
Engine Options: 302 HO Option - 83 302 EFI Option - 7
Body Style: Hardtop GT - 77 Convertible GT - 13
Roof Options: T-Top - 24 Flip Open - 11
Color Options: White - 14 Bright Red - 74 Medium Canyon Red - 1 Silver - 1
2008/2009 Mustang GT Twister's
Cars Produced: Street Versions - 15 Racing Versions - 2
Engine: 4.6L, 24 Valve
Transmission: 5 Speed - 7 Automatic - 8 Tremac 6 Speed - 2
Body Style: Coupe - 13 Convertible - 4
EF-1 - Coups A/T - 2 5 Speed - 1
EF-1 - Convertibles A/T - 1 5 Speed - 0
EF-2 - Coups A/T - 1 5 Speed - 3
EF-2 - Convertibles A/T - 1 5 Speed - 0
EF-3 - Coups A/T - 1 5 Speed - 1
EF-3 - Convertibles A/T - 0 5 Speed - 1
EF-4 - Coups A/T - 1 5 Speed - 2
EF-4 - Convertibles A/T - 0 5 Speed - 0
EF-5 - Coups Tremac 6 Speed - 1
EF-5 - Convertibles Tremac 6 Speed - 1
List above last revised on 05/03/2009 by Terry Fritts
Editor's Note: In an effort to restart the registry, these numbers will be left alone to history and a new tally started.
From Terry Fritts' original Twister Special Registry:
Previous Twister Sales History
* 2004 - 1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - A/T *
Solid # 2 Car - Private Sale - $83,000.00
* 2005 - 1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - A/T *
Basket Case - Matching Numbers
Ebay - SOLD - Final Bid/Selling Price - $43,900.00
*** 2006 ***
* 1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - A/T *
Solid # 1- to 2+ Car, Service Block, Complete Smog System
Complete Documentation Back to Selling Dealer & Original Owner
Ebay - Final Bid - $90,250.00 - Did Not Meet Reserve
Re-Listed 11/05/2006 - 7 day listing - Ended 11/12/2006
Ebay - Final Bid - $85,1000.00 - Did Not Meet Reserve
* 1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - 4 Speed *
Needed Total Restoration
Ebay - Final Bid - $92,900.00 - Did Not Meet Reserve
1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ A/T - In Need of Full Restoration
Listed 11/15/2006 - 7 day listing - Ended 11/22/2006
Ebay - SOLD - Final Bid/Selling Price - $30,000.00 Non-Matching #'s
1985 Mustang GT Twister II
Listed 11/06/2006 - 7 day listing - Ended 11/13/2006
Ebay - Final Bid - $4,050.00 - Did Not Meet Reserve
*** 2007 ***
* 1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - A/T *
Solid # 1- to 2+ Car, Service Block, Complete Smog System
Complete Documentation Back to Selling Dealer & Original Owner
Sold - Private Sale July 2007 - $98,000.00
*** 2008 ***
* 1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - A/T *
Number 1 Concurs Restored Car by R&A Motorsports
Complete Documentation Back to Selling Dealer & Original Owner
Sold - Private Sale June 2008 - $250,000.00
*** 2009 ***
1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - A/T Matching Numbers Car - Excellent Condition
Sold - Private Sale December 2009 - $120,000.00
Original 1970 American Raceways Inc. Convertible Pace Car
Number 1 Condition - Concours Restored
Incredible Documentation Including:
Original MCO, Transfer of ownership from Ford to ARI,
Lease Agreement Between Ford and ARI are just a few examples.
Sold - Private Sale December 2009
Sales Price Not Disclosed At Request of Seller & Buyer.
Let's Just Say - A LOT OF MONEY !!
*** 2010 ***
2008 - Twister Coupe Production VIN #1 Editor's note: Originally belonging to Terry Fritts
Sold - Private Sale March 2010 - $50,000.00
BUYERS BE AWARE ON 0F05R118854 - STOLEN IN 1980
Car may have been converted to a fake Shelby and is rumored to be in Michigan where it was stolen.
BUYERS BE AWARE ON 0A38J133456 - STOLEN IN 1998 From Ferguson, MO
From Terry Fritts' original Twister Special Registry:
Below is the documentation I currently have:
Press Release for 1970 Twsiter's
District Work Papers for High Performance Day at KCIR 11/07/1969
Numerous Magazine, Book Articles and Published Photos for the 1970 Twister's
Picture of All 1970 Twister's Sitting In A Lot at KCIR 11/07/1969
Picture of 1970 Mach 1 ARI Specials at FMCO Headquarters - Dearborn
Press Release Documents/Pictures for 1985 Mustang GT Twister II
Pictures of the 1985 Mustang GT - Twister II
Previous Twister Sales History
* 2004 - 1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - A/T *
Solid # 2 Car - Private Sale - $83,000.00
* 2005 - 1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - A/T *
Basket Case - Matching Numbers
Ebay - SOLD - Final Bid/Selling Price - $43,900.00
*** 2006 ***
* 1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - A/T *
Solid # 1- to 2+ Car, Service Block, Complete Smog System
Complete Documentation Back to Selling Dealer & Original Owner
Ebay - Final Bid - $90,250.00 - Did Not Meet Reserve
Re-Listed 11/05/2006 - 7 day listing - Ended 11/12/2006
Ebay - Final Bid - $85,1000.00 - Did Not Meet Reserve
* 1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - 4 Speed *
Needed Total Restoration
Ebay - Final Bid - $92,900.00 - Did Not Meet Reserve
1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ A/T - In Need of Full Restoration
Listed 11/15/2006 - 7 day listing - Ended 11/22/2006
Ebay - SOLD - Final Bid/Selling Price - $30,000.00 Non-Matching #'s
1985 Mustang GT Twister II
Listed 11/06/2006 - 7 day listing - Ended 11/13/2006
Ebay - Final Bid - $4,050.00 - Did Not Meet Reserve
*** 2007 ***
* 1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - A/T *
Solid # 1- to 2+ Car, Service Block, Complete Smog System
Complete Documentation Back to Selling Dealer & Original Owner
Sold - Private Sale July 2007 - $98,000.00
*** 2008 ***
* 1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - A/T *
Number 1 Concurs Restored Car by R&A Motorsports
Complete Documentation Back to Selling Dealer & Original Owner
Sold - Private Sale June 2008 - $250,000.00
*** 2009 ***
1970 Mach 1 Twister 428 SCJ - A/T Matching Numbers Car - Excellent Condition
Sold - Private Sale December 2009 - $120,000.00
Original 1970 American Raceways Inc. Convertible Pace Car
Number 1 Condition - Concours Restored
Incredible Documentation Including:
Original MCO, Transfer of ownership from Ford to ARI,
Lease Agreement Between Ford and ARI are just a few examples.
Sold - Private Sale December 2009
Sales Price Not Disclosed At Request of Seller & Buyer.
Let's Just Say - A LOT OF MONEY !!
*** 2010 ***
2008 - Twister Coupe Production VIN #1 Editor's note: Originally belonging to Terry Fritts
Sold - Private Sale March 2010 - $50,000.00
BUYERS BE AWARE ON 0F05R118854 - STOLEN IN 1980
Car may have been converted to a fake Shelby and is rumored to be in Michigan where it was stolen.
BUYERS BE AWARE ON 0A38J133456 - STOLEN IN 1998 From Ferguson, MO
From Terry Fritts' original Twister Special Registry:
Below is the documentation I currently have:
Press Release for 1970 Twsiter's
District Work Papers for High Performance Day at KCIR 11/07/1969
Numerous Magazine, Book Articles and Published Photos for the 1970 Twister's
Picture of All 1970 Twister's Sitting In A Lot at KCIR 11/07/1969
Picture of 1970 Mach 1 ARI Specials at FMCO Headquarters - Dearborn
Press Release Documents/Pictures for 1985 Mustang GT Twister II
Pictures of the 1985 Mustang GT - Twister II