I titled a 64 catalina using the abandoned vehicle method in Va.
http://www.dmvnow.com/webdoc/citizen.../abandoned.asp
Its a pain in the rear and a bit time consuming,
You will probably have to write 49 letters to state dmvs for record searches if you can't find an old tag or registation card.
Usually you can find someone in the dmv that will be helpful in the process, if not go to a different dmv.
Its going to be time consuming, but a 70 gto is worth the trouble, and a clean title eliminates any questions down the road.
I would not go through one of those Alabama title services now that youv'e been to the dmv and asked about a trace.
Good luck, Bud