Part 6/8:
The narrative surrounding the Pinto has been largely sensationalized. A Mother Jones article controversially suggested that Ford had engaged in a cost-benefit analysis that assigned a financial value to human lives, ultimately deeming it profitable not to fix design flaws in the Pinto. Subsequent discussions revealed inaccuracies in this portrayal, with experts noting the analysis did not reflect internal decision-making on the Pinto but rather evaluated potential regulations on a broader level.
Revisiting the Legacy
By 1980, the Pinto’s production ceased, having produced over 3.1 million units. While its reputation as a fire-prone vehicle overshadowed its achievements, studies revealed that in terms of fatalities, the Pinto was statistically comparable to other small cars of its time.