Introduction
When people think of Starsky & Hutch, one image comes to mind almost instantly — a bright red Ford Gran Torino with a bold white stripe running along its sides. Known by fans as the “Striped Tomato,” this car wasn’t just a mode of transportation in the show; it became a cultural icon in its own right. From high-speed chases through city streets to quiet moments parked at the curb while the detectives discussed their next move, the car played a starring role alongside the actors.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the story behind the Starsky und Hutch Auto — its history, the details that made it unique, its place in pop culture, and why it still attracts collectors and fans decades later. Whether you’re a classic car enthusiast, a television history buff, or someone who remembers the show fondly, this article will give you a complete, easy-to-read look at what makes this Gran Torino unforgettable.
History & Why the Gran Torino Became a TV Legend
The Show’s Background
Starsky & Hutch was a popular American detective TV series that aired from 1975 to 1979. It followed two streetwise police detectives — David Starsky, known for his tough and determined style, and Kenneth “Hutch” Hutchinson, the calmer and more analytical partner. The pair worked together to solve crimes, often relying on undercover work, quick thinking, and sometimes, a bit of luck. While the show was known for its exciting plots and charismatic leads, the car they drove became just as famous as the detectives themselves.
The Look
The vehicle was a Ford Gran Torino, painted a striking bright red with a wide, white vector-shaped stripe running from the front fender, over the doors, and toward the rear wheel. This design was bold, instantly recognizable, and unlike anything else on television at the time. Fans gave it the nickname “Striped Tomato,” a term the producers embraced. The car’s combination of muscle, style, and unique paintwork made it stand out even in scenes crowded with action.
Cultural Impact
The Gran Torino wasn’t just a background prop — it became a symbol of the show’s identity. Viewers associated the car with fast chases, dramatic confrontations, and the playful banter between the two detectives. It inspired real-life replicas, merchandise, and even special edition cars produced by Ford for fans. Over time, the car earned a place in television history, ranking alongside other famous screen vehicles like the Batmobile and the DeLorean from Back to the Future. Today, even people who have never watched the series often recognize the car’s distinct look, proving its lasting place in pop culture.
Technical Details & Special Versions
TV Show Modifications
The Starsky & Hutch Gran Torino seen on television was more than a standard showroom model. The production team used several 1974 and 1975 Ford Gran Torinos and made small but important changes for filming. These included fitting larger Magnum 500 wheels, raising the rear suspension for a more aggressive stance, and sometimes adding air shocks to handle the stress of stunt driving. The cars also had reinforced bumpers and mounts for camera equipment, making them better suited for the fast chases and sharp turns that became a hallmark of the show.
Factory Replicas
Due to the car’s growing popularity, Ford released a limited run of special edition Gran Torinos in 1976 that mimicked the TV car’s red paint and bold white stripe. Around 1,000 of these “Starsky & Hutch” replicas were produced for the public. While they looked very similar, there were small differences — for example, they lacked some of the stunt modifications and special filming hardware used on the actual TV cars. Still, they became collector favorites and remain highly sought-after today.
Engine Options
The Gran Torino came with several V8 engine choices, giving it the power needed for both real-life driving and on-screen chase scenes. Options ranged from a 351 cubic-inch engine to the more powerful 400 and 460 cubic-inch versions. These engines delivered strong acceleration, deep exhaust notes, and the muscle car performance that fit perfectly with the show’s high-energy style. For the TV series, the cars needed to perform reliably during repeated takes, so they were kept in top mechanical condition throughout filming.
Authenticity & The Collector’s Market
How to Spot a Real TV Car
Finding an actual Starsky & Hutch screen-used Gran Torino is rare, and serious collectors know to look for specific signs. Genuine TV cars often have unique details from filming, such as reinforced frames for stunt work, camera mount points, and custom wiring for on-set lighting. Some surviving cars also carry production notes, studio documentation, or even autographs from cast members. A detailed history, sometimes called a “provenance report,” is key to confirming a car’s authenticity.
Beware of Fakes
Because the car’s design is easy to copy, many replicas exist — and some sellers try to pass them off as originals. These fakes can be convincing, especially if they’ve been repainted and fitted with similar wheels and stripes. Buyers should always verify the vehicle’s history with paperwork, check serial numbers, and, if possible, have the car inspected by a vintage Ford expert. Trustworthy sellers will welcome thorough questions and provide clear proof of the car’s background.
Value Today
Original TV cars have sold at auction for impressive sums, sometimes exceeding $40,000 depending on condition and documented history. Even well-built replicas can command high prices if they are accurate and in excellent shape. The market for these cars has remained strong because they appeal to both classic muscle car enthusiasts and television memorabilia collectors. With the right care, a genuine or high-quality replica can hold — and often increase — its value over time.
Expert Tips & Personal Stories
Expert Opinion
Classic car historians often point out that the Starsky & Hutch Gran Torino is one of the best examples of a television vehicle becoming a cultural icon. According to automotive expert John Michaels, “The Gran Torino’s appeal goes beyond its role on screen. It combined muscle car power with a one-of-a-kind paint scheme, making it instantly recognizable even to people who never watched the show.” This mix of design, performance, and media exposure is what keeps the car relevant decades after its TV debut.
Fan Story
For many fans, owning a Gran Torino — even a replica — is a dream come true. One lifelong viewer, Mark Reynolds, spent over two years restoring a 1975 Gran Torino to match the exact look of the TV car. He tracked down the correct wheels, sourced the original-style vinyl stripe, and even tuned the engine to sound like it did in the series. “Driving it feels like stepping into an episode,” Mark said. “People wave, take pictures, and tell me they grew up watching the car race across their TV screens.”
Care & Maintenance
Owning a Starsky & Hutch Gran Torino — whether it’s an original or a replica — requires careful upkeep. Protecting the paint is a priority since the bright red color and white stripe can fade under strong sunlight. Regular waxing and indoor storage help preserve the finish. Rust prevention is also important, especially in the wheel wells and undercarriage. Mechanical care means keeping the V8 engine well-tuned, changing fluids on schedule, and checking suspension components after long drives. A car like this isn’t just for show; with the right maintenance, it can remain a reliable and exciting ride.
Modern Relevance & Fan Culture
2004 Movie Version
The Starsky & Hutch story was revived in 2004 with a comedy-action film starring Ben Stiller as Starsky and Owen Wilson as Hutch. For the movie, the production team built nine red-and-white Gran Torinos to match the look of the original TV car. None of the vehicles were actual screen-used cars from the 1970s series, but they stayed true to the classic design, complete with the bold stripe and muscle car stance. These film cars were used for both driving scenes and close-up shots, and a few ended up in private collections after filming wrapped.
Toys & Collectibles
Over the years, the Starsky & Hutch Gran Torino has inspired a wide range of merchandise. Die-cast toy cars by brands like Corgi and Hot Wheels have become popular among collectors, especially those made in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Some rare models, especially those still in their original packaging, can sell for hundreds of dollars. Posters, scale models, and even action figure sets that include the car remain popular, allowing fans to own a piece of the show’s history in miniature form.
Museum Displays
One of the original TV-series Gran Torinos now sits in the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, where it draws attention from visitors of all ages. Seeing the car in person offers a sense of nostalgia for older fans and a bit of wonder for younger generations who may be discovering it for the first time. Other original and replica cars sometimes appear at classic car shows, television conventions, and fan events, keeping the vehicle’s legacy alive in public spaces.
Fun Ideas for Families & Fans
Family Day Out
A Starsky & Hutch-themed outing can be a fun experience for the whole family. Visiting a classic car show or a museum that features the Gran Torino lets you see the famous red-and-white design up close. Kids often enjoy spotting the car from across the exhibition hall, and parents can share stories about watching the show when they were younger. Some events even allow you to take photos sitting inside a replica, creating a unique family memory.
DIY at Home
You don’t need to own a full-size Gran Torino to enjoy its charm. Building a scale model of the car can be a great weekend project for both kids and adults. Many model kits are available that let you paint and decorate the car in the signature Starsky & Hutch style. Younger fans might enjoy coloring pages or crafting paper models, while older hobbyists can work on detailed replica builds with moving wheels and realistic interiors.
Retro Decor
If you love the look of the Gran Torino, you can bring a bit of its style into your home. Posters of the car in action, framed photos from the TV series, or even small die-cast models displayed on shelves can add a retro touch to a living room, office, or game room. For themed parties, using red and white decorations can subtly nod to the car’s design without going over the top. It’s a way to celebrate the show’s spirit while keeping things stylish and fun.
Conclusion
The Starsky und Hutch Auto is more than just a piece of television history — it’s a cultural symbol that still sparks recognition decades after the show first aired. The bright red Ford Gran Torino with its bold white stripe captured the spirit of 1970s television, combining action, style, and personality in a way few screen cars have matched.
From its role in the original series to its appearance in the 2004 film, from museum displays to collectible toys, the car’s legacy continues to grow. For collectors, it represents a valuable and nostalgic investment. For fans, it’s a reminder of thrilling car chases, witty banter, and the bond between two TV detectives.
Whether you experience it at a car show, spot it in a museum, or bring a miniature version into your home, the Starsky und Hutch Auto remains a timeless icon — a star that keeps shining, on the road and in pop culture.
FAQs
Q1: What kind of car is the Starsky und Hutch auto?
The famous Starsky & Hutch car is a Ford Gran Torino, most commonly from the 1974–1975 model years. It’s easily recognized by its bright red paint and wide white stripe running along the sides.
Q2: How many Starsky & Hutch Gran Torinos were made for the TV series?
Several Gran Torinos were used during filming, with modifications for stunts and close-up shots. While the exact number isn’t officially confirmed, most reports suggest between two and four main cars were in rotation.
Q3: Did Ford sell a Starsky & Hutch special edition to the public?
Yes. In 1976, Ford released about 1,000 Gran Torinos painted and striped like the TV car. These were factory-made replicas and are now collectible items.
Q4: Where can I see the original Starsky & Hutch car today?
One of the original TV-series Gran Torinos is on display at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. Others are in private collections and sometimes appear at classic car shows.
Disclaimer:
This article is for general informational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available information and reflects the author’s understanding at the time of writing. It is not intended to serve as legal, medical, financial, or professional advice. Readers should consult qualified professionals for guidance tailored to their specific needs or circumstances. While efforts are made to keep the information accurate and up to date, no guarantees are made regarding its completeness or reliability.
