Bucket seats in '66?

[chaosklima]

Hi all,
From all the images I've seen thus far, I have yet to see a '66 Toro with front bucket seats. Yet, I found one (in rough shape) for sale in Minn. that has buckets for the front seats. Was this an option for that year, or is it an aftermarket change/update?
Thanks,
B

[toro1966]

There is no mention in any factory brochure about bucket seats or on any option list for 1966 . If anyone has better info let us know

[Oldsfan]

Hmmm....

The '66 color and trim book lists Strato Bucket Seats as being available (on special order). They were apparently available in black vinyl, bronze vinyl and royal blue cloth/vinyl. The Product Selling Information book also lists "Strato Bucket Seats and Console" under options and accessories. Again, it says "Available in Toronado models by special order only". Under the console section it says "Toronado Console consists of handy lockable map compartment with lamp. Mounts between special order Strato Bucket Seats, but doesn't extend ahead of seats".

There is a '66 in Hemmings Classic Car this month with bronze buckets and the console.

I used to have a '67 with buckets and console. The exterior paint was Sauterne, which was sort of a greenish gold. Interior was Garnet Red. Not the most attractive color combination, but probably one or one - and documented. Shoulda kept that one. It's in NY state now.

Paul

[lbcarguy]

Hi,

The Toro and Eldo on the cover of Hemmings Classic Car are mine. It had the same owner until I purchased it. It was an Arizona car. The trim plate on the bulkhead shows the letters BS for Bucket Seats. I have looked at over 50 other Toro trim plates and have never seen the letters BS used. Other GM makes used the BS designation also for bucket seat interiors.

If you pick up the 1966 Hot Rod with the Toro on the cover, the test model they use is trumpet gold with a black bucket seat interior. You can clearly see the console in a couple of the pictures in the article. So there were at least two assembled, and the Hot Rod car was either pilot or early production. Also, the Fisher Body Manual for 1966 has an exploded view of the console and bucket seats, with part numbers. I have searched for NOS parts and did not have any luck, as expected.

I am more than happy to share more pics of the car or discuss it if interested. It is a rare beast for sure. The engine rebuild begins in December.

[donald tolbert]

You found the holy grail. 1-of-50 made. See the latest article in Hemmings Classic Car Magazine, Dec 06, issue 27, page 22. Quote..."out of 40,963 toros built in 66, roughly 50 had them" (bucket seats) . If you don't buy the toro then let me know. Don 760-369-7306.