For Sale: 1979 Ford Ranchero in Ft Worth, Texas

Soak it in, because with this vintage hauler, you're looking at the end of an era. If you appreciate vintage Americana classics, you'll love this final-year 1979 Ford Ranchero Squire for its killer car/truck look and storied history. With a solid presentation, this is a head-turning classic that delivers far more than its affordable price may suggest.


Not only is this the final year for the hard-to-find Ranchero, but for many people, it's arguably the best generation. Ford's LTD wanted to be both premium and sporty, and that design translates well into this pickup/coupe, albeit with a unique design that was far more interesting than the El Camino. The two-tone paint job is certainly "of-the-era", with Chestnut and Burgundy shades separated by that encapsulating trim. The paint is solid and presentable driver quality, as you might expect from a tough UTE from this era, but it still presents very well and anyone would be proud to show off that cool metallic flake that really sparkles under the sun. Up front, the imposing egg-crate grille was painted to match the giant hood just above, and the big tailgate out continues the two-tone paint job. Big bumpers are a hallmark of the era and they certainly have a presence here, further protected with bumperettes that appear to have never seen any fights outside of a shopping cart or two. Other distinctive features include stacked headlights and Continental-inspired marker lights, those awesome chrome-trimmed taillights, and flared fenders that remind everyone that this is a truck after all. And speaking of which, the surprisingly large bed out back is painted to match the body and only shows small signs of use, which means you might think twice before you fill it up with dirt.


From behind the wheel, this Ranchero feels every bit like its Torino siblings, and with a split bench seat wearing handsome and supremely comfortable burgundy vinyl, it has a bucket seat feel with 3-across seating. The carpets, door panels, and headliner look equally nice, and all of it is nicely preserved suggesting that someone has always cared for this car. There are a few signs of use, including some minor cracks on the dash, but it's nothing major and only adds to the patina character inside this vintage hauler. Big round dials look give the dash a racy look while providing the driver with all the vitals, and the aftermarket woodrimmed 3-spoke steering wheel feels sporty inside the hands of the driver. Woodgrain applique on the dash adds a touch of sophistication inside, and an aftermarket AM/FM/CD head unit provides the entertainment. Other options include power windows, a power seat, and factory A/C that has been upgraded to R134a refrigerant inside. There's also fold-down armrests for optimum two-person cruising, and there's even modest storage behind the seats if you have gear that you'd like to keep out of sight.


A vehicle of this size needs a good bit of engine, and the small-block 302 V8 living under the hood makes it feel reasonably entertaining on the road. It's mostly stock from top to bottom, so it's not making huge horsepower, but you also know it's bulletproof reliable and upgrades are just a phone call away. It might benefit from a detail but you don't have to worry about performance because it really runs great, and we really love the sound it makes through the dual exhaust system. Black Ford valve covers are still in place, although the original air cleaner was swapped in favor of a chrome open-element unit that adds a little flash. Underneath, the rugged C4 3-speed automatic shifts nicely and the stock rear end can take anything you throw at it. Solid floors, newer shocks, a new gas tank, the right '70s stance, and factory 15-inch Mag wheels with 255/70/15 Cooper Cobra white-letter radials complete the look.

These cars were extremely popular back in the day and not many have survived, let alone in solid condition. Well-preserved and maintained and ready to hit the road, this is the car/truck to have if you want to make an impact. Call today!