“Lariat” topped Ford’s truck trims in ’79, and this 1979 Ford F-250 Ranger Lariat 4WD in Tacoma, Washington ranks among the fanciest ’70s trucks we’ve featured. The two-tone Supercab rig may or may not have languished in a barn, but it “runs and drives well” after “a few years” of down-time. A crease in the right front marks one of few visible demerits. With four-wheel-drive, room for six, an eight-foot bed, and a big block under the hood, this 20th-century Ford out-shines many new trucks. Check out more pictures and details here on eBay where at least 17 bidders have this Ford’s market value over $10,000. It may not have the acceleration or massaging seats of today’s King Ranch rides, but when it comes to hard work and longevity, it’s hard to beat a 460-powered F-Series.

You had me at carpeting! Wood grain, cruise control, and map pockets join carpeting on the list of luxuries that rarely graced the ’70s pickups of my youth, including my Aunt’s ’79 F-250 Custom. Though not pictured, this Lariat should have a snappy upholstered headliner where most were painted steel. Thanks to OldCarManualProject for the original brochure pages. That Kelsey-Hayes brake controller suggests a travel trailer toddled behind this 250 for some portion of its recorded 62,215 miles. The seller believes this number to be original, though unconfirmed.

Lariat trim includes the fancy bits inside and out where my Aunt’s farm truck featured zero chrome and monochrome Light Sand paint, the lighter shade on this Ranger. Ten-hole forged aluminum 15-inch wheels were a factory option. Today’s base Corolla rolls on 15-inch wheels and most cars get larger rims than this hard-working truck.

Crank windows would be unusual today in a pickup, or any vehicle for that matter, but they’re barely a bother when functioning properly. I’m guessing that upholstery has been re-done, but sometimes different plastics fade differently, becoming less complimentary with the original color palette over time.

This shot may confirm the “swing and a miss” re-upholstery color on the front bench, or it could be simple trick of the light. Regardless, the upholstery fits nicely and should readily outlive all the wear this truck is liable to see. Personally, I’d take this truck for towing and non-abusive jobs over a modern one every time. The 460 will run forever despite its thirst for gasoline, and the number of parts on this truck that you can buy for under $80 would run longer than your arm, almost as long as the list of parts on a new truck costing more than $300. Would you buy this big block Lariat for car shows or put it to work?