If you’re looking for something interesting to park in your workshop as a straightforward project, this 1970 Ford Ranchero deserves a close look. As a Squire, it is one of the rarest versions from that model year. Its needs are minor, and since it is in mechanically good health, the new owner could enjoy it immediately while tackling its shortcomings at their leisure.
Based upon the Torino, Ford’s Fifth Generation Ranchero enjoyed an extraordinarily short production run. It graced showroom floors in 1970 and 1971 before its replacement broke cover. This first-year Ranchero is the Squire derivative, carrying the faux woodgrain that was the badge’s defining feature. It is a fairly tidy survivor, with its Dark Maroon paint holding a respectable shine. There are no significant paint or steel defects beyond the typical selection of bed scratches, but the woodgrain exhibits lifting and some visible repairs that detract from the vehicle’s presentation. Many companies perform vinyl wraps, and one of those should be able to replace the existing vinyl with something that is a close match to the factory finish. The trim and glass look acceptable for a survivor, and the GT wheels are a later addition.
The first thing that I checked when I turned my attention to this Ranchero’s interior was the pad. These are particularly prone to cracking, and this car has suffered that fate. The problem isn’t severe, and a $50 cover would hide the issue. However, those seeking high-end presentation might decide to splash $530 on a replacement pad. That’s a significant investment for one trim piece, but this Ranchero’s potential long-term value might justify the expense. The seatcover, wheel, and carpet show their age but are the only other significant problems. The dash looks nice, and the first owner equipped this classic with a factory tach. Aftermarket additions include a radio/cassette player and air conditioning that doesn’t blow cold.
One of the attractions of vehicles like this Ranchero is that they are invariably lighter than the sedan or wagon upon which they are based. That means with less weight to shift, they typically offer noticeably better performance. The first owner ordered this Ranchero with the F-Code 302ci V8, teaming it with a three-speed automatic transmission, a 9″ limited-slip rear end, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. The V8 would have delivered 220hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque when new. However, the upgraded intake and four-barrel carburetor will have unlocked extra power. This Ranchero won’t disappoint those seeking a turnkey classic. It runs and drives extremely well, and although the seller holds no documentary evidence, they believe the odometer reading of 106,000 miles might be genuine.
Ford sold 21,640 examples of its Ranchero in 1970, and with a total of 3,943, the Squire is second only to the GT in rarity. This one looks like a promising project, and the bidding history suggests it has ticked the right boxes for a few people. The seller listed it here on eBay in Branchville, New Jersey. The bidding sits below the reserve at $6,900, and there is a BIN option of $15,000 for those wishing to bypass the auction process. It is worth noting that these classics are becoming increasingly popular, and values are climbing rapidly as a result. The BIN figure might be slightly optimistic, but if potential buyers take a long-term approach, that may not be an issue if the new owner holds onto this classic for a few years. Do you agree?
Basically, a wagon without the top! The 302 in this should power it just fine. However since this is a northeast car I’d want to have it checked thoroughly for rust!
Or, contemporary business coupe.
Oddly optioned. Factory tach, 9” rear end with a 302. The asking price seems aggressive. Rancheros don’t get a lot of love, which equates to relatively low prices.
Steve R
Throw a half cord of seasoned fire wood 🪵 in the back to sweeten the deal 🤝
The fire wood is already on the car!
This is my favorite body style for this car but I can do without the fake wood grain and like someone above posted because of its location get it on a lift and inspect it yourself or hire someone to check it out for you
I’m no A/C expert, but the hoses and clamps used seem suspect.
The hoses and clamps are what we used on “Dealer Installed” A/C. You cut the hose to length and the clamps have a tab on them to position them on the barbs of the fitting.
But the clamps on this car are everyday worm clamps.
Worm clamps with a locating tab. Specific for dealer AC
I like this Ranchero just the way it is. It’s in far North NJ, but not far down rt 206 to I 287, and it has a PA title. I’m in Philadelphia, so not bad, but I already have a 66 F-100 that the previous owner modified with a Mustang HO 302, AOD trans and Trutrac in the 9″. The Ranchero would fit my old 6-foot body better for leg room? Maybe not. I hauled loads of firewood to a friend’s house with the F-100 this spring. Working A/C would be a plus at an expense and the exhaust looks suspect. This would not have cruise control, I guess. Cruise helps with leg cramps. Rust doesn’t look too bad. Deal for someone I think.
I had a feeling that anyone that would order a Ranchero with wood paneling would not check the larger engine box.
Looks like I was right.
Not a bad package, here.