Wednesday, July 13, 2016

1979 Ford Ranchero GT

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Our recent post on a 1961 Ranchero is a nice contrast to this later model. Finished in a pretty metallic chestnut color with what I think are the original type stripes, this is a striking vehicle, even with it’s massive 5 mile-per-hour bumpers. It’s located in Black Mountain, North Carolina and is listed for auction here on eBay, where bidding has yet to meet reserve but the buy-it-now price is a steep $7,200.

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I think there’s a lot of details here that aren’t original; for example, I’m pretty sure it didn’t originally come with a spray-in bed liner. However, it is an attractive combination that could probably benefit from some more time spent on some details. The seller tells us that his wife and he do not see eye to eye on this vehicle, and he apparently rates his wife higher than his daily driver Ranchero (good man!). Do take note of the dent in the right rear of the bumper, though.

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The bed looks nice, if non-original in color (I think). I’m glad to see the lack of rust, but I still think the price is high for this vehicle given it’s flaws. Do you agree?

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The seller mentions the Brougham interior option, and states that it’s leather. The only reference material I could find said it was vinyl–do any of you know for sure one way or the other? It looks like vinyl to me in the way it has split. Personally, I’d rather have one of the sportier options more befitting the exterior appearance. They do look like comfortable seats, though.

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Under the hood we find a 351 cubic inch V8, which the seller claims runs great. The Ranchero has also benefits from some recent improvements: new brakes, new master cylinder, new shocks, new radiator, new hoses, and a rebuilt carburetor. The air conditioning has not been addressed, and the seller states it needs a new compressor. I’d take the opportunity to upgrade to R134 at the same time.

So what do you think? How much would you pay for this Ranchero? And would you rather have this one or the earlier one? Let us know in the comments!

Source: barnfinds.com

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