Ford Torino had a power and torque increase, and the 460-4V had a power decrease. In an attempt to help improve fuel economy, the standard rear axle ratio for all models was now 2.75:1. 1975–1976 Gran Torinos were used in the popular Spelling-Goldberg Productions TV series "Starsky and Hutch". The producers needed a flashy specialty car for the main characters to drive. Since Ford was the lease supplier for on-screen cars through their Studio-TV Car Loan Program, eventually it was decided by the producers that a bright red 1975 Gran Torino two-door would be the vehicle of choice for the pilot episode.
Starsky & Hutch the first two seasons can be viewed for free in Minisode and in regular format on Crackle. The show also can currently be seen on Cozi TV. Much of the series was shot on location in the Los Angeles beach community of San Pedro. The building that was used as the "Metropolitan Division" police headquarters is now San Pedro's City Hall. For their fourth and final season, Starsky & Hutch finished #36 in the Nielsen Ratings. Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has released 4 Seasons on DVD in Regions 1 and 2 between 2004 and 2006. As of 2014, these releases