Running Project: 1971 Ford Ranchero 500
Ford created a “coupe utility” out of its 1957 2-door station wagon and named it Ranchero. It would garner enough attention for Chevrolet to duplicate the effort in 1959 with their El Camino. It parodied full-size and compact Fords through 1965, after which the Ranchero was based on the mid-size Fairlane. This 1971 edition is said to run well, but the interior will need a complete makeover. Located in Citrus Heights, California, this “gentleman’s pickup” is available here on craigslist for $6,500 OBO. Thanks for another cool tip, ToddK!
From 1966 to 1979, each time Ford redesigned or restyled the Fairlane/Torino, the Ranchero would follow suit. Such was the case in 1970 when Ford went for a more aerodynamic look which did not resonate all that well with buyers and the layout would last for only two years before being redone again. Ford produced 21,850 Rancheros in 1970 and another 24,500 in 1971, which includes the seller’s 500 version (other trim levels were base, GT, Custom, and Squire).
The seller says this ’71 Ranchero has just 27,000 miles on its body, which implies that the drivetrain is not original. A 302 cubic inch V8 resides under the hood along with an automatic transmission, which would have been common fare on the vehicle that year. We’re told it’s in good running order though the engine compartment could stand to be detailed.
As far as the body and paint go, the seller says the white over “yellow/gold” is original and no rust seems to be present. However, the interior looks as though something lived inside the truck for a while and tore up the seat covers and carpeting. Also, there appears to be a hole in the floorboards about where your left foot might hang out as you’re getting ready to exit the Ford. Perhaps more damage might be found when you pull out the rugs.
Auctions Ending Soon
2006 Ford Mustang Saleen S281 SCBid Now16 hours$15,000
2002 Subaru Impreza WRXBid Now3 days$333
1975 Chevrolet Corvette ConvertibleBid Now3 days$3,000
1964 Ford F-100 Camper CustomBid Now3 days$2,000
2006 Jeep Wrangler SportBid Now5 days$10,500
Comments
Another 10 footer….looks good from 10 foot. It’s interesting the body looks as good as it does considering the interior and floorboards. Nice color combination, but I’m betting there’s both rust and bonds lurking underneath.
Wow that seems like a screaming good deal on this car.
The underside phots show a very clean frame and floor. I’m with Rex Kahs on this, looks like a screaming deal, but as always, a good personal inspection is warranted.
I’m not a fan of the color combo. Looks like a banana sporting a white cap. 🍌 But I could live with it.
As for buyers not being enamored with the new body style for the 1970 model year, sources I found state that Ranchero, and Torino sales as a whole, increased significantly in 1970, and again in 1971. 🤷♂️
If Dave is right, that’s a big plus. Engine cleaning not a huge deal, although seller should always do that be4 presentation imo. As for the interior, it’s not much on any gentleman’s p/up. Again, not a big deal. I’m more concerned w/ drivetrain,brakes, etc.
In this day and age you’re not gonna find anything in that era, that’s not already restored, with a better starting point. Good luck to buyer and seller.
27 Thousand Miles and the engine looks like that. Must have been on a DIRT ROAD for 26,500 of them miles. And the interior leaves even more questions. LOOKING A LOT LIKE 127,000 MILES Ford paint chips for 1971 show Grabber Yellow
The craigslist ad actually states 27,000 miles on the body. Was the body replaced, repainted or completely repaired?
For us in the rust belt this body looks like a million bucks. Love the car but too far away.
That’s not a hole… take a closer look.
This is probably a reasonable price for this vehicle if a person is looking for a Ranchero?
It appears from the pictures that it has been repainted and perhaps there are some unpleasant surprises lurking underneath?? Start underneath the carpet.
The driver’s side seat is worn considerably, the passenger side is worn, but not as bad. The center part is hardly worn, just aged. So, call it 27,000 miles if you want?
Usually a lot of driving attributes to these conditions?
I would be more inclined to buy from someone if they would be more realistic?
It would still sell if it was listed as 127,000 miles? Or TMU.
I very well could be wrong? If so, I apologize to the seller.
After all, it’s just my oponion!