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Another One! 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!

Comments

  1. Avatar MH

    I would much rather have the camaro drop top that’s in the background!!!

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  2. Avatar AMC STEVE

    Looks like an 1979 not 61, I don’t think it’s an outrageous price but these have a narrow following

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    • Avatar Donnie

      No one said it is a 61.1979

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    • Avatar Harold Wood

      It is a 79.I have a lite blue one with white stripes, that I’m saving to restore when I find that round to it that I seem to have misplaced.

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  3. Avatar Rando

    Pleather….

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  4. HoA Howard A Member

    I always thought these were the nicest of the big Ranchero’s, although, I’d still rather have the ’61. While I never cared for stacked headlights, I think this was the nicest use of them. Problem here, it’s a big vehicle. And I’m sure a gas hog, something the ’61 has over this. Several companies made rear toppers for these that looked good and added a lot of “covered” space, something lacking in these. Not sure on the price in this age of craziness, but sure looks nice. Love the color. http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd462/LUCKYJEFFREY/72%20RANCHERO%20FOR%20SALE/RIGHT3.jpg

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  5. Avatar Bobby Pickersgill

    I like these. My neighbor has one already restored with bed cap and fresh paint & interior in case anyone is interested. Location: Sauquoit NY 13456. Probably wants closer to 10g

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  6. Avatar Bobsmyuncle

    I don’t know the market but I don’t see how $7200 can be far off the mark unless there are some serious hidden issues. Its a shame they didn’t use tinted bedliner, that would have made a huge improvement.

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  7. Avatar Chebby

    Needs a set of those “Superfly” giant round lenses to hide the square headlights.

    http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2636/4131244786_c17800340d_o.jpg

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  8. Avatar stillrunners

    Yes….it’s pleather – mine is optioned just like it – for those not in the know – it’s a 351C/400M motor which I wish mine just had a 351W….I’m looking for $3500 for my 1 owner now two with a factory posi – damn I need to get it listed…..and my horn does work !

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  9. Avatar Nova Scotian

    I know a lot of people hated the huge bumpers on cars like this,..but I really like being able to sit on any car bumper back in the day if one needed to stop and tie your sneaker, or drink your soda. Try that on the plastic covered, paint matched bumpers of today and car owners be commin after ya’.

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