1965 Ford Falcon Ranchero Pickup

Lot details
Registration No: Un-Reg
Chassis No: 5H27C257542
Mot Expiry: None

More than a car. more than a truck - a Double-duty beauty! These were the taglines that Ford used to promote its Ranchero, produced from 1957-1979 as a luxury utility vehicle, with car-derived styling and trim - a trend soon followed by Chevrolet with its El Camino pick-up. Rancheros were built on various chassis over the years, with a total production of 508,355 units, but from '64-67 the 'personal pickup' used the Falcon compact as its base - which, more famously, also provided the underpinnings for the sporty Mustang, another new niche model devised by Ford. So under the sharply-creased body is double-wishbone and coil front suspension, a 'live' rear axle on leaf springs and a choice of power from straight-six to a 260cu in V8 engine, with a 289cu in mill becoming available for 1965.

Although, its quoted VIN number indicates that this Lorain, Ohio built example began life with a high-power 'Challenger' 289cu in (4.7litre) 200bhp V8, the vendor's own research suggests that the Ford may have had a 302cu in (5.0litre) V8 from new. Regardless of which powerplant was originally fitted, its current specification includes: the bigger motor, three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, air conditioning, lockable fibreglass tonneau cover (with hinged tailgate), new exhaust system and original GT wheels plus stainless steel sill covers. The original black interior is said to be "mint" with original black carpets and Ranchero overmats. The vendor, who describes this rare pick-up as "all good" says: "It drives really nicely, a very desirable American classic that would be a fabulous publicity vehicle as well as a practical classic. Duty and VAT paid but it is unregistered, though will be MOTd and registered for the new owner. Best of all, it's about the size of a Ford Capri, so it fits in a normal garage. A really practical American classic that is one of only a few in the UK. Truly exceptional".

Please Note: We have been informed that this vehicle has just been issued with a valid MOT certificate.