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.
Raymond Allen (television actor) Raymond Allen (television actor) Raymond Gilmore Allen (born March 5, 1929) is an American actor. He is best known for his appearances on television during the 1970s. He had recurring roles as Ned the Wino on "Good Times", as Aunt Esther's husband, Woodrow "Woody" Anderson on the NBC sitcom series "Sanford and Son", and as mechanic Merle the Earl on "Starsky and Hutch". He reprised his role as Uncle Woody Anderson in the "Sanford and Son" spin-off, "The Sanford Arms". Allen also made guest appearances on "The Jeffersons", "What's Happening!!", "The Love Boat" and the film "Wattstax". Allen has not