Affordable Driver: 1977 Ford LTD Station Wagon
With domestic Station Wagon production a distant memory, potential buyers must either consider imports or search the classic market for appropriate family transport. However, this 1977 LTD might save you some hassles, because it is a solid and clean example that is unquestionably affordable. Its cavernous interior should accommodate almost anything the buyer wishes to squeeze on board, allowing them to embark on cross-country adventures with space for the entire family and their luggage. The seller has listed the LTD here on Facebook Marketplace in Whitehall, Montana. They set their price at $7,000, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Bruce M for spotting this spacious classic.
Ford’s Second Generation LTD range graced showroom floors from 1969 until 1978. The company utilized the predecessor’s frame, extending the wheelbase by 2″ to increase interior space. Our feature Wagon rolled off the line in 1977, which was a year when Ford only performed minor upgrades as it prepared for the badge’s replacement in late 1978. The first owner ordered this classic in Code 6P Cream, and its overall presentation is pretty impressive for its age. There is a color mismatch on the tailgate, suggesting it may have received a touch-up. Otherwise, it is consistent across the remaining panels, and there is no evidence of significant dings or rust. The trim sparkles nicely, and the glass is clear. The damage-prone wheel covers are in good order, while the narrow whitewalls add a classy finishing touch.
The first owner didn’t splash huge cash on this LTD’s mechanical specifications, opting for the entry-level 400ci V8. It sends 173hp and 326 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission. With an overall length of over 225″ and a curb weight of 4,731 lbs, the Wagon could potentially feel big and heavy. Therefore, the new owner will undoubtedly welcome the power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes. The power and torque figures are typical of the era, and when combined with the vehicle’s weight, mean that outright acceleration will be fairly sedate. However, it should effortlessly devour enormous distances on the open road, making it ideal for long journeys and cross-country adventures. The seller claims the Wagon has a genuine 119,000 miles on the clock, and that it runs and drives well. Therefore, flying in and driving this gem home should be a realistic expectation.
The thing that impresses me most about this Ford is its interior. Family Station Wagons often live hard lives, with luggage, the pet dog, and little feet and sticky fingers exacting a heavy toll on many surfaces. However, this LTD has avoided most of those pitfalls. The Brown vinyl trim is in exceptional condition, with no rips or tears. The rear cargo area is free from significant scratches and scrapes, while the dash and pad haven’t succumbed to UV exposure. The only genuine shortcoming is a few small holes in the headliner. These might respond to blind patches, although with a replacement headliner retailing for under $350, addressing that issue would be cheap and easy. It also features some reasonable options, including air conditioning, a two-way tailgate, cruise control, an AM radio, and a remote driver’s mirror.
Station Wagons have a strong following in the classic community, especially among enthusiasts who want space but aren’t drawn to an SUV or van. This 1977 Ford LTD is a wonderful survivor that can be enjoyed immediately, and addressing its most obvious shortcoming would be cheap and rewarding. Its affordability will attract many, which is why I believe it will find a home fairly quickly. Are you tempted to make it yours?
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Comments
Take the whole tribe down to the seaside ⛱️ 🌞 🏄♀️ 🏊♂️
Looks like this LTD wagon has had good care. The soft yellow paint and the brown interior gives it sort of an anonymous look. This wagon would be a good collector car to have, if you needed the vehicle to also serve duty carting the grandkids or going to Home Depot, all for not much money. And it’s almost even cool (who would have thunk it).
Not a bad deal at all if it runs and drives well. I’d do a timing chain if it hasn’t already been done, then preserve and enjoy it.
Can you imagine hitting a new car with this tank. The other car would look like a jigsaw puzzle out on the road.
I don’t know about damage prone wheel covers, this car is in Montana. There aren’t any curbs to hit out there.