This 1978 Ford F150 Ranger XLT leaves potential buyers with decisions to make. It is a tidy and rust-free survivor but could also serve as an excellent foundation for a straightforward restoration. It is mechanically healthy and ready to hit the road with a new owner behind the wheel. The F150 is listed here on eBay in Caldwell, Idaho. Bidding has reached $6,200 in a No Reserve auction.

Ford introduced its Sixth Generation F-Series for the 1973 model year. Although it rode on the same chassis as its predecessor, the company made significant structural and material changes to improve longevity. Previous models developed a reputation for rust issues, but using more galvanized steel and zinc-rich paints on its latest offerings markedly improved the situation. That is why I am unsurprised that this 1978 F150 is rust-free. The panels are clean, and the excellent array of underside shots reveals no problems beyond the occasional area of surface corrosion. The two-tone Dark Metallic Brown and Creme paint add a classy air, and its condition is acceptable for a survivor of this type and vintage. The panels have a few dings and dents, but addressing these would not be challenging as part of a cosmetic restoration. Someone has wisely installed a plastic bedliner for protection, while the rear step bumper is a practical feature. The trim is acceptable for a survivor-grade classic, and there are no glass issues.

Some readers will be disappointed to learn that this Ford’s engine bay doesn’t house a V8. The original owner ordered it with the 300ci six, which sends 113hp and 240 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a four-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. The original owner’s decision to include power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes means the driver shouldn’t raise a sweat maneuvering in tight situations. The six wasn’t the most potent tool in Ford’s F150 chest. Still, its low-end power and torque delivery made it ideal for off-roading, where it could crawl into inhospitable territory with the engine barely ticking over. The seller indicates this truck’s motor is strong, although they provide no information on how it runs or drives. They appear approachable, so asking questions or negotiating an in-person inspection could be worthwhile.

Potential buyers need to piece together their opinion of this Ford’s interior from a range of photos because there isn’t one that provides a broad overview. However, the impression is positive. Some painted surfaces show slight wear and chips, but nothing demands immediate attention. The dash is in good order, as are the acres of faux woodgrain trim. The seat sports a new cover, with the new carpet adding to the positive impression. A Sony radio/cassette player occupies the spot reserved for the factory radio, while the factory cruise control makes long-distance travel more relaxing.

Treating this 1978 Ford F150 to a cosmetic restoration would seem, on the face of it, the most obvious path for the new owner to tread. However, preservation might be a better approach for a fundamental reason. Potential buyers could pop out to their nearest Ford dealer and drive away in a shiny new F150 without too much effort. It would offer more equipment and refinement than our feature truck but would also leave no change from $60,000. The buyer then faces the double whammy of depreciation and the trauma and grief associated with the scratches and scrapes that are an inevitable part of off-roading. This F150 will cost someone a fraction of that figure, and its lack of perfection means the damage mentioned won’t cause the same level of heartache. That’s why I would probably leave this classic untouched. Do you agree?