With 1979 marking the final year of production for Ford’s Ranchero, it wasn’t unusual for buyers to treat themselves by adding a few creature comforts to their new purchase. That is the case with our feature vehicle because its next owner will slip behind the wheel of a classic that’s fully loaded. It presents well as an unmolested survivor and needs nothing beyond a new home. Located in Cape Coral, Florida, you’ll find the Ranchero listed for sale here on Craigslist. You could drive away in this classic by handing the owner $24,900 ONO. I have to say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting another absolute beauty for us.

Ford offered potential buyers the choice of fourteen colors to grace the panels of their 1979 Ranchero, and this classic’s original owner selected Polar White with contrasting Maroon stripes and a matching vinyl top. The paint is in good condition for an original survivor, with no significant problems. The stripes are crisp, while the vinyl appears excellent. The bed shows no evidence of abuse beyond a selection of scratches, and the owner’s decision to install a rubber mat offers additional protection. The panels are as straight as an arrow, with the seller stating that everything is original and unrestored. Rust also doesn’t seem to be an issue, with nothing visible in the supplied photos or mentioned in the listing text. They have fitted aftermarket wheels that suit the vehicle’s style, but the factory wheel covers hide behind the seats for those seeking an original look.

The original owner craved comfort, choosing to load the Ranchero’s interior with optional extras. The buyer receives ice-cold air conditioning, power windows, a power driver’s seat, cruise control, sports gauges with a factory tachometer, leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped wheel, and an AM/FM radio/8-track player. For potential buyers, the news remains good. Everything inside this classic works as it should, including the 8-track. The leather on the seats exhibits the creases that are part of the character of this type of upholstery, but there are no rips or other physical damage. All the buyer needs to do is climb aboard and enjoy the classic motoring experience this Ranchero offers.

The owner supplies no engine photos, but Ford only offered two engines in the 1979 Ranchero range. This one features the 351M V8 that produces 162hp and 270 ft/lbs of torque. The luxury impression created by the interior continues due to the vehicle featuring a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power front disc brakes. The seller indicates an odometer reading of 75,000 miles, and while they believe this to be genuine, they seem to hold no verifying evidence. They say that the Ranchero runs like new, suggesting that the buyer could fly in and drive this baby home.

Many people lament the passing of the Ranchero, a badge that had been an integral part of the Ford model lineup since 1957. Dwindling sales volumes brought on by the growing popularity of larger pickups like the F-100 sealed the Ranchero’s fate. There’s no evidence suggesting that the company would reintroduce the Ranchero to their range in the future. That means potential owners need to scour the classic market to find a good one. If that task has recently commanded your attention, your search could be over. This beauty offers excellent presentation, a V8 under the hood, and enough optional extras to make any journey feel like a special occasion. I can’t think of a negative in that equation. Can you?