This 1965 Ford Ranchero is a striking-looking vehicle that is a turnkey proposition for its new owner. From the V8 under its hood to the odometer reading of 49,000 original miles, there’s a lot to like about this classic. The seller has performed a few upgrades, but these are reversible if the buyer prefers authenticity. You will find the Ranchero listed here on Craigslist in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Scott for spotting a classic that could be yours for $28,000.

Ford developed a habit of beating the opposition to the punch. It was Ford Australia that was credited with developing the “coupe utility” concept when it released its first example in 1934. In North America, the Ranchero hit the market in 1957, two years before Chevrolet unveiled the El Camino. The Second Generation Ranchero went on sale in 1960, based upon the compact Falcon platform. Our feature vehicle rolled off the line during that model’s final production year, and it is a classic that is guaranteed to turn heads. Some paint shades are almost iconic to a period in automotive history, and this Ford’s combination of Rangoon Red and Raven Black ticks that box. Finding anything to fault about the overall presentation is difficult, with the paint shining exceptionally, and no evidence of significant cosmetic flaws. The seller confirms that this beautiful Ranchero is rust-free, although they state that the trim would benefit from some work with a high-quality polish to bring its appearance to the same level as the paint. The bed is Rhino-lined and features a new cover. The glass looks excellent, there are spotlights hidden behind the grille, and the vehicle rolls on wider Baby Moon steelies with matching hubcaps.

Ford offered 1965 Ranchero buyers plenty of engine choices, with the 289ci V8 joining the range that year. This beauty features its numbers-matching 289, teamed with a three-speed automatic transmission and power steering. The braking system benefits from a front disc upgrade, and the engine recently received a top-end rebuild. The Ranchero remains in excellent mechanical health, with no identified shortcomings. A modern aluminum radiator with an electric fan will keep temperatures under control, with the Ford also featuring a modern fuse box for added convenience. The seller doesn’t mention verifying evidence for the claimed odometer reading of 49,000 original miles, but the condition makes it plausible. Potential buyers can consider this a turnkey proposition that can be enjoyed immediately.

The seller states that over $40,000 has been invested into this Ranchero over the past thirty-five years, with $10,000 of that tally lavished on its interior. It features custom trim that matches the exterior paint combination, Black carpet on the floors, and painted surfaces that appear flawless. The period-correct air conditioning is currently disconnected, but with the system complete, returning it to working order should be possible. The speakers mounted in the kick panels hint at a modern stereo for in-car entertainment, while custom underdash lighting should add to the visual impact provided by the interior.

I have always had a soft spot for vehicles like this 1965 Ford Ranchero, having utilized an Australian Ford Falcon Ute as my daily driver for years. The sheer versatility of these vehicles is hard to argue, especially considering they combine that attribute with the comfort of a family sedan. This one is a gem and is ready to provide someone with a memorable ownership experience. The big question is what the new owner will do once it is safely tucked away in their garage. Do you think that they should reverse any changes to recapture the vehicle’s factory form, or would you leave it as-is?