Torque specs were probably pretty much like all other mechanical variables "back in the day", less efficient and more "clunky".Working in the petro/chem industry, I've often thought about the efficiency loss of machinery and equipment in the early days of refining and chemical manufacturing, not to mention the hazards to both the equipment and personnel. Today, clearances on an industrial hydrogen compressor shaft are in the 1/100ths range and 1/1000ths on something like a steam turbine stage. No way that could've been machined that tight 100-150 years ago. Everything was built big and heavy. When it came to torquing, I imagine overly large bolts (by today's standard) were used on oversized flanges, blocks etc. and probably tightened to many more ft/lbs. than we today can fathom, to the point where basically it couldn't be reasonably turned anymore by hand. This is all from a heavy industry/construction pov but I'm sure it was the same principal when it came to the automotive industry.
