Description
The Ford Torino Squire Wagon was the upscale station wagon variant of the Torino lineup, produced during the late 1960s and 1970s when station wagons were at their peak as the quintessential American family car. Ford positioned the Squire as the most luxurious wagon in the Torino range, distinguished by its trademark simulated woodgrain side panels that gave it an elegant, country-inspired character. It combined practicality and space with a touch of style and refinement, appealing to buyers who wanted more than just utility from their family wagon.
From the outside, the Torino Squire Wagon was instantly recognizable thanks to the woodgrain applique running along the sides, framed by bright trim. This styling cue, borrowed from Ford’s larger Country Squire wagons, gave the mid-size Torino wagon a more upscale and distinctive look compared to plainer Torino and Fairlane wagons. Chrome bumpers, roof racks, and optional hidden headlights in certain model years further added to its presence. The Squire was available in both two-door (rare and short-lived) and four-door wagon configurations, though the latter was by far the most popular.
Inside, the Torino Squire Wagon emphasized comfort and versatility. The interior was more richly trimmed than standard wagons, with upgraded upholstery, wood-grain dash inserts, and available features such as air conditioning, power accessories, and AM/FM radios. Depending on the configuration, it could seat six passengers with two bench seats or up to eight when fitted with an optional rear-facing third-row seat. The large rear cargo area could be easily expanded by folding the rear seats flat, making it ideal for family road trips, shopping, or even light hauling. A dual-action tailgate, which could swing open like a door or fold down like a traditional tailgate, added to its practicality.
Mechanically, the Torino Squire Wagon was offered with a range of engines to meet the needs of different buyers. At the entry level, six-cylinder engines were available, but most buyers opted for V8 power, ranging from small-block options like the 302 and 351 to big-block engines such as the 390 and even the 429 in certain years. Automatic transmissions were the most common choice, particularly the Cruise-O-Matic and later SelectShift automatics, which suited the Squire’s comfort-oriented character. With a V8 under the hood, the wagon had enough power to handle highway cruising and heavy family loads with ease.
On the road, the Torino Squire Wagon was smooth, comfortable, and quiet, qualities that made it appealing for long-distance family travel. While not designed for spirited driving, it was stable and capable, particularly when equipped with larger engines. Its combination of roomy interiors, refined styling, and dependable mechanicals helped it compete strongly in the crowded wagon market of the era.
The Torino Squire Wagon was priced at the top of the Torino wagon range, appealing to families who wanted both practicality and a touch of luxury. It provided an attractive middle ground between the compact wagons derived from the Falcon and Ford’s larger full-size wagons, making it versatile and accessible to a broad customer base.
Today, the Ford Torino Squire Wagon is a rare and nostalgic classic. While many wagons from the era were used heavily and discarded once their utility was exhausted, surviving examples are now cherished for their unique blend of style and practicality. Collectors value them for their woodgrain sides, period charm, and their role as symbols of American suburban life in the 1960s and 1970s. Restored Squire wagons, especially those with V8 engines and factory options, are appreciated as both functional classics and evocative reminders of an era when the station wagon was the family car of choice.