The Eddie Bauer edition Ford trucks remain an interesting category of so-called “limited edition” vehicles that may be worth paying attention to. Although purely a cosmetic upgrade, they are getting harder to find after once seemingly being one of the more popular factory trim packages offered. While we see the Bronco variant quite often, the F150 pickup shows up far less frequently. This 1996 F150 listed here on craigslist features the intriguing combination of the Eddie Bauer trim, the durable 4.9L inline-six, and a 5-speed manual with an asking price of $7K.
Thanks to Barn Finds reader Mike F. for the tip. The Eddie Bauer spec got you the two-tone paint scheme you see here along with the brand’s script on the side of the bed. The trim upgrades typically spilled over to the interior with some specific colors and options, but it seems that models like the Explorer and Bronco were more often outfitted with leather and other enhancements. This seller describes this F150 as having been his daily driver for the last 13 years, and with a manual and 2WD, it likely performed admirably in those duties (and was likely dirt cheap to run.)
As you can see, the interior isn’t particularly luxurious, but I’m guessing the original owner who bought this F150 new was more interested in the two-tone paint scheme that came with the Eddie Bauer trucks rather than worrying about leather seats that would just get beat up over time. This is likely one of the most durable engine and transmission combinations you could order an F150 in, and with three pedals, that torque-right I6 will move out of its own way just fine. The F150 also comes with power windows, power steering, and functioning air conditioning.
The 300 series engine made around 150 horsepower and a heady 265 lb.-ft. of torque when new. Although a bit light on power and likely not the best choice for a heavy duty towing rig, this engine is one of the best Ford has ever made and it will prove reliable for years to come. It is known to be a very stout motor that can go massive miles with only basic maintenance and upkeep. Overall, this F150 was already appealing just for the inline-six and 5-speed combo alone, but the Eddie Bauer edition trim pushes it over the top. And with just 105,000 miles, it has many more years of service left to give.
From when you could order a vehicle the way you wanted it. Upscale Eddie Bauer trim (though with the cloth seats), yet with the base 300 manual transmission powertrain. This one isn’t perfect, but with routine maintenance it should provide years of service. Thanks Jeff.
Ford brought these (6 and stick) out to raise their CAFE numbers for that period. Special lease or finance terms.
This is nearly the perfect truck for all out work and durability. A longbed would make it perfect. 4×4 would only add complication and weight. Many dont know that the 300 I-6 doesnt even have a timing belt or chain. It has timing gears. Just keep oil in it and you are good to go for years and years
I never considered over 100k miles to be low mileage as the add states but when you question it they reply with its low for the year, yes but there’s one on evil bay with only 74,000 miles that is what I consider low mileage for the year. But I sold a 1996 with 222,000 miles on it and got a 93 with now112k miles
I have a 1993 long bed with the 4.9 L six and automating transmission. I paid $700 for it in 2012 and it now has 280,000 miles on it. Still drive it, and even tow (motorcycles) with it. The motor is bulletproof but now I’m convinced the transmission is too. The only big problem Ive had with it, was the rear end broke when I was towing a trailer with a couple motorcycles on it up near Seattle, about 1000 miles from home. Found a 1994 ear end in a junkyard up there, but the bolt pattern was different. Fortunately I found a pair of wheels that fit and I’ve been driving it with mis-matched wheels every since.
F-150 in this era had big incentives for ordering the six and 5 speed, the standard running gear for the 150. These trucks were ordered this way because the incentives made them a bargain for leasing. 95 and 96 Eddie Bauer option gave you the 40/20/40 seat, two tone paint, turbo front bumper, and tie down anchors that went into the bed stake pockets. The dealership where I worked deleted the 40/20/40 seat option for an additional credit. Standard xlt bench was substituted. Leather seats were NOT available in this era of F series. Any leather seats were installed at an outside conversion facility.
Good info 👍 Joe. Neat little half ton here.
I forgot, step boards were also included. Along with an Eddie Bauer duffel bag that was mailed to you shortly after your purchase or lease
Great drivetrain , but I see a lot of rust & dents. The tailgate has brackets for a brushed aluminum trim, that’s missing. I would check the frame & floors carefully.
Where is this truck located…
This would be perfect for me. Even the colors are perfect for me. I miss the days of simpler straight six stickshift trucks. It looks like it is in amazing condition for its age and mileage. Very nice find here, someones getting a terrific truck with this one.
I hear ya Driveinstile. 2wd would be fine. Throw the Enduro bike in the back should the off road urge arise.
I love these 6cyl. 5-speed trucks I had a plain jane version of this truck and loved it.
But I think 7,000 is steep for one that is obviously from the rust belt I’d feel better at 4,000
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