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Pick of the Day: 1965 Ford Falcon Ranchero

Tyson Hugie
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Pick of the Day: 1965 Ford Falcon Ranchero

The big news for Ford Motor Company in the mid-1960s was of course the new Mustang. But we can’t forget to recognize some of the other vehicles that shared showroom floors with Ford’s revolutionary pony car. This was one of them.

The Pick of the Day is a 1965 Ford Ranchero Custom listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Leesburg, Florida. (Click the link to view the listing)

“Fully restored with only 77,220 original miles on this factory 289 V8 and Cruise-O-Matic three-speed transmission,” the listing says.

Classified as a “coupe utility,” the Ranchero was produced from 1957 through 1979 across seven distinct generations. The second generation, ranging from 1960 through 1965, was technically called the Falcon Ranchero because it was based on Ford’s compact Falcon underpinnings. Engineers started with the two-door sedan delivery and transformed it into a light-duty pickup truck. The idea was to market the car as a practical, yet capable vehicle that was priced more cheaply than a full-sized pickup. Speaking of the price point, some of Ford’s marketing materials at the time said things like, “Looks like a million, but you needn’t be a millionaire to own it!”

Included in the listing is a walk-around video showing the exterior, interior, and engine bay. The car looks to be largely original with exception of a dual exhaust system and a set of chrome five-spoke wheels wrapped in a set of Ironman tires. The seller says that the car was acquired from an estate sale and has undergone recent mechanical services including replacement of the carburetor, fuel tank, tires, brakes, and battery.

One unique thing about this Ranchero is that 1965 was the only year from the second-generation Ranchero when the 289cid Windsor V8 was offered. That motor produced plenty of power for a compact truck. Load capacity was rated by the factory at 800 pounds. That number was a far cry from some of Ford’s full-size pickups (which could carry upwards of 4,000 pounds or more). However, the reality was that most people’s occasional truck-use needs did not warrant a great deal of capacity. The same idea holds true today, which is why smaller crossover-based pickups are so common.

“Car is in mint condition; we also have the original hubcaps, brochure, and wiring diagram,” the seller says.

Sure, a 1965 Mustang will turn heads, but a 1965 Ranchero can double as an occasional workhorse!

The asking price is $34,995 or best offer.

To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, click over to the library at Pick of the Day.

Your Favorite Car Sucks: Drive the Bid Podcast

Diego Rosenberg
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Your Favorite Car Sucks: Drive the Bid Podcast

Did you know your favorite car sucks? Indeed, what you like is irrelevant to our lives. Like the sports team that’s your favorite because they’re from your hometown, your favorite car has no logic and purpose and, therefore, sucks. How’s that for a topic for AutoHunter’s Drive the Bid Podcast? While you try to control your temper, watch or listen to the below podcast because you may just find yourself agreeing with Luke Lamendola and me.

For news, we discuss Porsche’s new Macan EV – another vehicle that sucks. After all, who puts a Turbo badge on a vehicle without a turbocharger? Plus, it seems Porsche will be building the ICE version that’s based on the old one, so we are left scratching our heads until we learn more about Porsche’s plans.

And, of course, our AutoHunter picks, which include a 1971 ‘Cuda 383, 1963 Mercury Meteor S-33, 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28, and 1977 Chevrolet C10 Cheyenne.

AutoHunter Cinema has plenty of other videos and podcasts created by the experts behind ClassicCars.com, the world’s largest online collector car marketplace. AutoHunter brings forth a dedicated live customer support team, quicker auction listings and exclusive benefits for both buyers and sellers.

AutoHunter Spotlight: 1963 Mercury Meteor S-33

Diego Rosenberg
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AutoHunter Spotlight: 1963 Mercury Meteor S-33

Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 1963 Mercury Meteor S-33 two-door hardtop. Last registered in 1972, this mid-size Merc is powered by the Lightning 260 V8 backed by a Merc-O-Matic automatic transmission. Features include bucket seats, console, power steering, AM radio, and more. Finished in black with red interior, this Meteor is being sold with a clear title from the selling dealership.

The exterior is painted Presidential Black (code A) complemented by longitudinal chrome trim with red inserts. Other exterior features include wheel well and rocker molding, and rear fender-mounted antenna.

Fourteen-inch black steel wheels with tri-color Mercury wheel covers are wrapped in 205/75 whitewall radial tires.

The code 55 interior features red front bucket seats with center console, which was a part of the S-33 trim level. Features include console cubby, power steering, column-mounted automatic shifter, and AM radio.

The instrument panel includes a 110-mph speedometer plus gauges for the fuel, oil pressure, generator, and water temperature. The odometer reads 70,760 miles.

The engine is the top option for the Meteor, the 164-horsepower Lightning 260 V8 topped by a two-barrel carburetor. It is paired to a two-speed Merc-O-Matic automatic transmission. Engine features include red air cleaner housing and valve covers.

This 1963 Meteor features an independent front suspension and solid rear-drive axle. Brakes are of the four-wheel drum variety. Expelled gasses are routed through a single exhaust to the rear. A walk-around and test-drive video can be seen below.

The auction for this 1963 Mercury Meteor S-33 two-door hardtop ends Friday, May 10, 2024 at 11:15 a.m. (PDT).

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery

Rev Up Your Dreams with a 400-HP 1968 Ford F-250 Restomod

ClassicCars.com Sponsored Content
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Rev Up Your Dreams with a 400-HP 1968 Ford F-250 Restomod

Are you a classic truck enthusiast who can’t resist the allure of vintage Ford pickups? If so, get ready to have your dreams come true with the Classic Truck Dream Giveaway brought to you by CJ Pony Parts!

Picture this: a stunning 1968 Ford F-250 work truck, now over 55 years old, meticulously restored and upgraded to deliver unparalleled performance on today’s roads. This long-bed beauty retains all the timeless charm of ’60s-era Ford trucks, from its gleaming chromed front bumper to the iconic Ford lettering on the tailgate. But don’t be fooled by its classic appearance – under the hood lies a powerhouse waiting to be unleashed.

Prepare to be blown away by the heart of this hauler – a stroked, fuel-injected chromed-out 351W engine (now 408ci) that churns out 400 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque! Paired with a five-speed stick-shift overdrive and a McLeod clutch, this Ford F-250 offers a driving experience like no other. And with modern amenities like a custom-styled leather interior, in-dash retro-styled gauges, Vintage Air A/C and a Classic Auto Sound receiver, every journey is bound to be a FORD-tastic!

If you’re looking for a timeless classic truck that you turn the key and go, go, go, then this it. Click here to get your entries to win.

Do you need more details to fall in love with it? How about four-wheel disc brakes for modern stopping power. And, if you think truck beds should be as spectacular as the engine bay, then the Bedwood carbonized bed, installed at Bedwood’s factory in Kentucky, USA, is sweet icing on the cake.

Your chance to win this magnificent machine is just a donation away. By supporting veterans’ and children’s charities, you’ll not only be making a difference in the lives of those in need but also securing your entry into the Classic Truck Dream Giveaway.

Are the winners real? Of course. Just ask Randall P. from British Columbia, who scored a classic Ford F-100 last year with a single lucky ticket!

So why wait? Your classic-truck dream is within reach. ENTER NOW for your chance to own the ultimate blend of classic looks and modern performance – the 1968 Ford F-250 restomod.

Time is running out for you to get your entries. Order banks close at midnight on May 16th and the winner will be announced early June.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity of a lifetime. Rev up your dreams and CLICK HERE TO ENTER today!

Pick of the Day: 1972 Pontiac Grand Ville Convertible

Diego Rosenberg
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Pick of the Day: 1972 Pontiac Grand Ville Convertible

The Bonneville was at the top of the Pontiac hierarchy ever since it became a mainstream model in 1958. Yet, in 1971, Pontiac decided to insert a model above the Bonneville. Why ruin the equity of a long-standing model? Our Pick of the Day is one of those curious cars, a 1972 Grand Ville convertible. It is listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Grand Rapids, Michigan. (Click the link to view the listing)

1958 Bonneville

When the Bonneville first hit the streets in 1957, it was a limited-edition convertible equipped with fuel injection, which was quite a technical feature for the time. For 1958, Pontiac introduced a mainstreamed Bonneville model, available as a hardtop and convertible. With the introduction of the Wide-Track Pontiacs for 1959, the Bonneville expanded into a complete series that included a four-door hardtop plus a station wagon.

While the Catalina was always the strongest seller, the Bonneville had the strongest image and consistently outsold the mid-range Star Chief (later, Star Chief Executive and Executive). So why compromise the Bonneville’s name in the market? That’s what a lot of people have asked themselves many years later. Truth be told, Pontiac discontinued the Executive after 1970, so it needed a new mid-range series. Rather than creating a name that would resonate with Pontiac, the powers-that-be both created the Catalina Brougham and pushed the Bonneville down a notch with the Grand Ville. Now, Pontiac’s strongest full-size name was nudged into the shadows.

Then, in 1976, realizing its gaffe, Pontiac retired the Grand Ville name and replaced it with the Bonneville Brougham. Another gaffe would follow in 1982 when Pontiac moved the Bonneville to the mid-size G-body . . . but that’s another story for another time.

This 75,634-mile Springfield Green 1972 Pontiac Grand Ville convertible is one of 2,213 built and is equipped with a white power top. This generation of full-size Pontiacs were introduced for the 1971 model year but, for 1972, Pontiac shed the neo-classical styling and reverted to more conventional look, bearing a passing resemblance to the Grand Prix. Interior features include a green power front bench seat with center arm rest. Other options include Rally II wheels, cornering lights, air conditioning, remote driver-side mirror, power windows, Realistic AM/FM/cassette (original AM/FM Stereo is included), and matching top boot. Power comes from a 455 four-barrel with single exhaust.

According to the seller, this Grand Ville has had the same owner for 24 years. For $21,900, how many more years do you think you can enjoy this classic American-style convertible?

Click here for this ClassicCars.com Pick of the Day.

Pick of the Day: 1969 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40

Tyson Hugie
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Pick of the Day: 1969 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40

The Toyota FJ40, dubbed the “40 Series,” initially launched in model year 1960. Worldwide, it lived on for a monumental 40 years until being discontinued after 2001. The old saying about, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” applied: the FJ was known for its robust powertrains and its all-terrain capabilities.

The Pick of the Day is a 1969 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Miami, Florida. (Click the link to view the listing)

“A few know the feeling of owning a classic; it can become an obsession,” the listing begins. “I need space, so I am selling my 1969 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 convertible with a removable top.”

The seller goes on to say that the vehicle is “fully restored as it deserves.” The exterior was resprayed in brown metallic and is said to be of show-quality. The interior was also refurbished in saddle-colored vinyl upholstery. The rear passenger compartment has a unique layout with dual inward-facing benches. The seller says that the Goodyear Wrangler raised-white-letter tires have been replaced — including the full-sized spare which is located on a swing-away mount out back.

The 40 Series platform got its start as a short-wheelbase, two-door sport-utility vehicle, and in later years, it was available in both four-door and pickup configurations. Today’s featured vehicle boasts a tan soft top with vinyl windows with provisions for cargo-area access via the barn doors at the rear.

Under the hood, power comes from a 3.9-liter inline-six mated with a three-speed manual transmission and a two-speed transfer case. A number of other motors were available throughout the 40 Series’ lifetime, including many that were diesel-fueled. The odometer on today’s vehicle shows just 3 kilometers accrued, although true mileage on the chassis is not known.

I enjoy that the seller apologized in the listing for his dogs getting in on the photography session. Image 19 shows the pups playfully scampering around in the background. This FJ40 would make the perfect adventure-seeking rig to take to the wilderness with the pups and a picnic. With summer just around the corner, it is the perfect time to pick up a classic SUV that is both collectible and versatile.

The asking price is $32,000, and the pups are not included!

To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, head on over to Pick of the Day.

Imports in America, 1964

Diego Rosenberg
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Imports in America, 1964

There were not many imported cars in the United States before World War II. That changed once servicemen and women brought back funky sports cars from the UK after the war. When a strange German brand established a sales network in the U.S., everything changed. What did the ensuing decade look like? Thanks to a clipping from the April 6, 1964, issue of Automotive News, we can get an idea.

1964 Volvos

By 1964, the American marketplace for imports was already in its second phase, as many European brands smelled Volkswagen’s success and tried to cash in, but many had already left when the 1960s dawned. What’s interesting is how many of the more novel brands continued to sell vehicles through 1963: DKW, NSU, and Skoda all were prolific brands, but their presence in the American market was never strong. Plus, there are several brands under Miscellaneous that aren’t specified – I imagine Panhard and Humber would be two.

Some thoughts pop into my head while looking at these numbers:

  • It’s been my impression British Fords were the most popular import pre-VW, and the numbers possibly bear this out, but the Ford’s dealer network was not enough to sustain the brand in good numbers.
  • Ditto Buick dealerships selling the Opel brand, though I suspect Opel’s portfolio in 1963 was not as strong as it was in the late 1950s. Of course, Opel would eventually have several good sellers well into the 1970s.
  • Renault was the biggest threat to Volkswagen in the 1950s but could not sustain itself.
  • Datsun had much better standing than Toyota, but Toyota’s fortunes would change within a few years.
  • Many of the good sellers from the UK continued to be sports cars. Note the strength of MG and Triumph in 1963.
  • Volvo’s performance was consistently impressive compared to other Europeans.
  • It is interesting to know Citroen’s presence continue into the 1970s considering the marque never sold many cars in the U.S. There are other brands that sold better yet disappeared, such as Hillman.
  • It seems that most of the brands that left the market by 1963 were German, including the Ford Taunus.
1964 Hillman Minx

Of course, the market would narrow to a few, while import sales would only increase market share, especially the Japanese brands. Take a gander at the above list and see what kind of inferences you can make. Enjoy!

Interesting Finds: 2008 Dodge Viper SRT/10

Tyson Hugie
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Interesting Finds: 2008 Dodge Viper SRT/10

One of the many collector cars that crossed the auction block at WestWorld of Scottsdale in January was a Dodge Viper SRT/10 that, according to the seller, was the only one manufactured for its year in its specific color combination and with the Aero Package. In the video below, Luke Lamendola and I discuss some of the merits of this iconic machine.

Viper Backstory

The Viper is one of the “poster cars” that was an object of desire for car enthusiasts of any age. Like so many other exotic sports cars, it made very little sense from a practicality perspective. It was a two-door, two-seat roadster that was first brought to market in 1992 with a canvas roof, vinyl side windows, minimal driver aids, and no available air conditioning (at least until 1994).

None of that mattered. What mattered, instead, was that the Viper had a 400-horsepower V10 and a 165-mph top speed. It was a supercar built for raw, exhilarating driving experiences.

Horsepower Wars

By the time the second generation, or ZB, Viper came to market in 2003, it had been heavily redesigned by Dodge’s performance division, Street & Racing Technology (SRT). Engineers had taken a “bigger is better” approach when it came to the powertrain, and the engine grew to 8.3-liters with a rating of 500 horsepower. Again in 2008, the size ramped up – this time to 8.4-liters. At 600 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque, it was now playing in the big leagues with the likes of the Eaton-supercharged Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. Just like the heated muscle car wars of the 1960s, automakers were continually battling.

Featured Viper

Offered as Lot Number 972, the Viper SRT/10 was an unmistakable piece of machinery in the Barrett-Jackson salon showcase. According to documentation that accompanied the vehicle, it was a two-owner car with up-to-date maintenance history and garage-kept preservation. Speaking of preservation, the hood, mirrors, and rocker panels were protected with clear paint protection film to keep the car looking fresh. The odometer showed just 28,713 miles, and I guarantee the prior owners wore a perma-grin for each and every mile.

There were a few important changes that happened with the Viper for model year 2008. The former TREMEC T-56 six-speed manual transmission was replaced with a TREMEC TR-6060. The rear end received a ViscoLok limited-slip differential, the exhaust system was reworked, and there were upgrades to the electrical system and fuel system including a 180-amp alternator and a high-capacity filtration system. The enhancements took an already-great platform and made it even better.

“Seeing this Viper in person is a dream come true,” Luke said. “We are super lucky to be here.”

I wholeheartedly agreed! And by the way, the winning bid for the car was $107,800. Perhaps this was someone’s long-term dream car that they were finally able to acquire. We extend our sincere congratulations to that lucky owner! Enjoy your 600-horsepower snake.

AutoHunter Spotlight: 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda

Andy Reid
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AutoHunter Spotlight: 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda

Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda hardtop coupe.

Of all the classic pony cars out there, the most aggressive looking one of them all is now and always has been the ‘Cuda. It is a car that looks like it means serious business standing still and delivers on that promise when you drive one. They just scream cool in the best possible way.

The 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda presented here looks to be an absolutely tremendous example of the model. The seller states that is the result of an $180,000+ restoration. It is powered by a 383ci V8 backed by a TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission. Finished in In-Violet Metallic with white billboard stripes over a White and Black interior, this ‘Cuda comes from the selling dealer with the original broadcast sheet, the original warranty pamphlet, and a clear title.

The exterior of this car looks to be spectacular. It is painted, as stated above, In-Violet Metallic (code FC7) what was also known as Plum Crazy when used on Dodge vehicles. It includes the ‘Cuda-standard performance hood (code J54), Hood pins (code J45), tinted windows (code G11) and a remote-control driver-side racing mirror with chrome cap (code G33). The only exterior modification from new is that the billboard stripes were installed in place of the original black side moldings (code V5X). It rides on 15-inch Rallye wheels with F60-15 Goodyear Polyglas GT bias-ply tires.

The interior as nice as the exterior and is finished in White and Black (code H4XW) vinyl upholstery. It is equipped with power steering, an AM radio (code R11), and a rear seat speaker (code R31) The only interior modifications from stock are that the original front bench seat has been replaced with nicer and more desirable stock bucket seats and the very desirable factory center console.

Under the hood is the cars reportedly original 383ci Super Commando V8 (code E65) that was factory-rated at 300 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque with an original single Holley 4-barrel carburetor. The engine is backed by its original TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission.

This car is offered with its original broadcast sheet and original warranty pamphlet.

If you are looking for a super nice ‘Cuda with modifications that only work to make the car better, look no further than this one.

The auction for this 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda Coupe ends Monday, May 13, 2024 at 11:15 a.m. (PDT).

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery

AutoHunter Spotlight: 1948 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible

Tyson Hugie
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AutoHunter Spotlight: 1948 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible

Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 1948 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible.

“Today, the world has a new standard by which to measure motor cars,” an advertisement for the 1948 Cadillacs said. “Cadillac has taken a great stride forward – one of the greatest, perhaps, in its history of automotive pioneering.” No car illustrates that advancement better than this Series 62 convertible. The car is being sold by a private seller in Port Saint Lucie, Florida, and the auction will end on Friday.

Due to World War II, domestic vehicle production was halted in January 1942 and did not resume again until October 1945. When General Motors started building Cadillacs again, the 1946 and 1947 models were largely a carry-over from 1942, with exception of a few subtle styling and engineering changes.

That explains why, when the all-new 1948 Cadillac models launched, they were so revolutionary for their time. The tailfins were inspired by the Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighter plane, and interior room was more generous than before thanks to a two-inch wider track width for the C-body platform. “Interior design and finish are a complete departure,” ads said.

Today’s featured car conveys all that elegant (and fresh, for its time) styling in addition to a newly-reupholstered black vinyl interior, a new soft top, 15-inch wire wheels, and wide whitewall tires. Power for this luxo-droptop comes from a carbureted 346cid L-head V8 mated to a four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission.

According to documentation that accompanies the car from events such as the Lake Mirror Classic and Classics at the Beach, the car has spent its fair share of time in the spotlight in Florida’s car show scene. One of the signs states that the car was “driven regularly and participated in numerous tours with the local chapter of the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA).” It goes without saying that this car was collector-owned and preserved.

“You are cordially invited to inspect the new Cadillac in your dealer’s showrooms. When the standard of the automotive world has been so decidedly raised, it should be of interest to everyone,” said Cadillac’s marketing.

Well, consider this story your cordial invitation to take a closer look at the car featured in the AutoHunter listing. If you end up being its lucky new owner, you will gain personal insight into what made these cars so special.

The auction for this 1948 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible ends Friday, May 10, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. (PDT)

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery

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