This episode was directed by Paul-Michael Glaser. As such, he has very few scenes. His direction takes an artsy approach, unusual for the show, such as Hutch and Captain Dobey seen speaking through large green bars, close to the camera, blurry and dark images and the like. The topic being rather dark and depressing---the Manson murders had taken place barely 8 years prior---and the weird direction, swayed parts of the international market negatively, resulting in certain European countries, such as France, deciding not to purchase the rights to air this episode in their nation.
The character Simon(e) in this episode is actually based upon Charles Manson, who manipulated a lot of other victims to commit murder and other crimes.
Only episode where Starsky's Gran Torino is mostly driven by Hutch.
Steven Morrell---also known as Aesop Aquarian---who plays the cult leader, is said to have hung out with Charles Manson, back in the day. His stage name certainly echoes back to that era, as it is a mixture of Greek mythology and astrology.
The rear view mirror in the Torino disappears and reappears while Hutch is pursuing the van after the farm explosion.The Torino's disappearing and reappearing mirror is a regular feature of S&H.