Thanks to its extended rear section, the Pinto wagon avoided the fuel tank problems common in sedan and hatchback models during crashes. That safety edge is welcome, especially for a survivor like this woodgrain Squire that has lasted this long. The question is whether the asking price will spark interest from buyers.

In 1969 Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks put out an album with the track How Can I Miss You If You Won't Go Away. The humorous take on a troubled romance became his best-known number and stayed popular until his death in 2016.

BMW's present Z4 roadster lingers on the market even though the brand sold roughly 1,500 units in the United States last year. That is a sharp drop from the Z3 era, leaving many used examples available, such as the 1999 Z3 2.8 reviewed earlier in the week. That example was tidy and priced at $7,500, which most readers viewed as reasonable given its small flaws, resulting in a 78 percent Nice Price vote.

Horsing around

Compact two-door wagons were popular in their time, even if they are scarce now. Smaller models from Volkswagen, Toyota, Chevrolet's Vega, and Ford's Pinto filled that niche and later appeared under other brands as well.

The 1972 Pinto Squire on offer gives a compact version of the classic Ford wagon look and stands out as a well-preserved example of the two-door format. Its early slim bumpers lend a neat appearance that many find more appealing than the hatch or sedan shapes. The longer body also reduces the chance of fuel tank damage in a rear impact.

Squire attire

This example remains in strong shape for its age and original role as an affordable daily car. At the time, its 99,302 miles would have been viewed as high, making its current condition even more notable. The beige finish and woodgrain vinyl sides look solid, with most paint described as original. Full wheel covers and period California plates add to the period style.

The car was assembled at Ford's San Jose plant in April 1972 and has stayed in California, so rust is absent. It would suit coastal use, though the vinyl interior can become warm on sunny days.

All original

The seats, dash, door panels, and carpet remain in good order and are largely original. Minor additions include an extra gauge panel and speakers in the kick panels. The rear area is equally tidy, though some plastic trim has faded. Under the hood sits the 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a two-barrel carburetor rated at 86 horsepower and 102 pound-feet of torque, paired with a four-speed manual and live rear axle.

Recent work includes a new clutch, brake parts, shocks, and a rebuilt carburetor, all done with many new-old-stock components. The seller describes it as an enjoyable drive with a clean title, current registration, and an exemption from emissions testing due to its age.

A rare opportunity

The $23,777 price may give some buyers pause, as it is ten times the original cost. Still, low survival rates and the car's solid condition after extensive work make it a ready-to-use classic that draws attention at events. At the same time, it remains a Pinto, and other interesting vehicles are available near that price. Does the figure seem fair for this well-kept wagon, or does it exceed what most would pay?