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.
Columbia Pictures Television distribution rights to "Barney Miller" and "Fish" from Danny Arnold, Quinn Martin's "Barnaby Jones" and "Soap" from Witt/Thomas/Harris Productions. On June 27, CPT bought domestic distribution rights to four series made by Spelling-Goldberg Productions including "S.W.A.T.", "Starsky & Hutch", "Charlie's Angels" and "Family" from Metromedia Producers Corporation. From 1978 to 1986, CPT co-produced series with Spelling-Goldberg including "Fantasy Island", "Hart to Hart", and "T. J. Hooker". On February 19, 1979, CPT acquired TOY Productions, whose output included "What's Happening!!" and "Carter Country". On August 13, 1981, CPT acquired the television assets of Time-Life Films. On May 17, 1982, Columbia Pictures