1957 Ford Custom 300 Series Ranchero

1957 Ford Custom 300 Series Ranchero
Chassis no. C7KF174433
292ci OHV V-8 Engine
Single Carter Carburetor
212bhp at 4,500rpm
Automatic Transmission
Independent Front Suspension - Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*Exquisite show-quality cosmetic and mechanical restoration
*Rare and highly-optioned Custom 300 series Ranchero
*A true "Double Duty Beauty" in outstanding condition
*Luxury in the front, practicality in the rear

THE FORD RANCHERO

"It's more than a car! It's more than a truck! Any way you look at it, the stunning new Ranchero is the slickest, sleekest pickup ever to pack a load. And what a load! The Ranchero carries more than half a ton—more than many standard pickups!" -Ford advertisement for the new 1957 Ranchero.

The Blue Oval and the Bowtie had been locked in a protracted battle in the market for pickup truck buyers since the end of the war. When the Ranchero debuted, it put Chevrolet on the back foot—the new vehicle had the good looks and luxury of a Fairlane, with the practicality of a pickup from the B-pillar back—a veritable work boot with full brogue wingtip design.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Finished in a two-tone Flame Red over Colonial White paint scheme with optional 'hockey stick' side trim, this heavily optioned Ranchero left Ford's Kansas City, Missouri factory on October 5, 1957. A top of the line Custom series example, the car was ordered with a full complement of luxury features, including power steering, brakes, windows, fender-mounted side mirrors, Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels, chromed exhaust tips, padded dash, and SelectAire air conditioning—an option that, at $377, cost $37 more than the F-Code Supercharged V8. Power comes from its correct C-code 292ci V8 mated to an optional Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission. Power is transmitted through a 3.56:1 rear axle.

Restored to a high standard, this Ranchero shows exquisitely well. Popping the hood reveals an attention to detail not often seen on a truck, with correct parts and proper presentation throughout. Formerly part of the renowned collection of Mr. Chuck Spielman of San Diego, California, the Ranchero has resided in another world-class collection for the past four years. This superb Ranchero is one of the best-restored examples extant and unquestionably the most stylish way to collect supplies from the local hardware store or plant nursery.