When Ford introduced the Ranchero in 1957, it had a simple slogan: “More Than a Car! More Than a Truck!” Back then, pickups were mostly seen as work vehicles, not something you’d necessarily drive to church or take out for a nice dinner. Ford had a different idea, combining passenger-car styling with a cargo bed, and the combination caught on quickly. Chevrolet followed Ford’s lead and introduced the El Camino in 1959, setting up a rivalry between the two automakers that would continue for years.
By 1968, the Ranchero had moved away from its compact Falcon roots and onto Ford’s intermediate platform, sharing its basic design with the Fairlane and Torino. This 1968 Ford Fairlane 500 Ranchero is listed for $7,500 on Craigslist in Kalispell, Montana.
Ford offered three Ranchero models for 1968: the base version, the Fairlane 500, and the sportier GT. The Fairlane 500 sat in the middle of the lineup, combining the Ranchero’s usefulness with the styling of Ford’s intermediate cars. This example is finished in yellow and has a black vinyl bench seat. The paint shows some age, but the long hood and low profile still give it plenty of late-’60s Ford character.
Up front, the four headlights and wide grille give it the distinctive look of Ford’s intermediate cars from this period. The door panel still carries its Fairlane 500 trim, while the black interior shows some wear, including a tear in the driver’s seat.
Under the hood sits a 289-cubic-inch V8 paired with an automatic transmission. The seller says some work has been done to the 289, along with a new fuel tank, master cylinder, brake booster, and all-new wheel cylinders. According to the seller, the Ranchero has had just two owners and spent years in storage. The listing shows 92,000 miles and a clean title.
One detail that caught my eye is the transmission. This Ranchero left the factory with a four-speed manual, but it now has an automatic. That certainly changes the driving experience. If it were yours, would you keep the automatic or want that four-speed back? Let us know in the comments. And thanks to Curvette for sending us this tip!
First off. I just wanted to say that I’ve been enjoying your write ups Conrado, thank you. And of course, Curvette for all the great finds you submit as well. My absolute favorite Rancheros are the early Falcon based ones, but these are a very close second. The 289 and 4 speed must’ve been a great all around combination in this one when it was new. I was kind of disappointed to see it was converted to an automatic. But thats just a personal preference. This one looks pretty solid. And even though I lean towards stock rims, I like the Torque Thrusts on this one and I’d keep them. It’s held up well for 92,000 miles. Thanks again Conrado, I’m looking forward to reading your future write ups.
Thanks, Driveinstile! I really appreciate the kind words and you taking the time to share your thoughts. I’m with you on the early Falcon-based Rancheros—they have a lot of character. Glad to have you along for the ride!
Really nice Ranchero for a really great price. Being this was a stick shift it may have been a 3 speed and not a 4 speed. Would switch back to a 4 gear or maybe even a 5 speed with the the highway overdrive would boost fuel mileage. Nice truck.
Leave it a 4 speed so much more fun than an automatic plus better fuel economy if you drive it that way
should be pretty solid if it’s in Montana.
Now this ute could be a heck of a deal if the seller is honest & much doesn’t need done, paint job being #1. Appears to be in good shape for being 58 years old. And I love a 289 having owned a few. Undershots would have been nice.
Beautiful vehicle. At my age, 82, I would personally prefer the automatic trans. Would be a great vehicle to own.