Locating a vehicle with enough power to tow a heavy load is sometimes challenging, which is where this 1972 Ford F150 Ranger XLT rides to the rescue. It is an extremely tidy and rock-solid classic with the company’s range-topping V8 under the hood. It is ready to go, and the included Marti Report confirms that it is all that the seller claims. It is definitely worth a closer look if you wish to avoid the significant financial hit that comes with buying a new Pickup.

This F150 has the “wow” factor, courtesy of its two-tone Coral and Wimbledon White paint combination. The seller admits that the lower extremities have received a touch-up, although it appears that most of the paint is original. The presentation is well above average, guaranteeing that the F150 will attract admiring glances and positive comments wherever it goes. The panels are as straight as an arrow, while the trim and glass are excellent. The underside shots reveal little beyond the occasional spot of surface corrosion, and no evidence of penetrating rust. The F150 rolls on a clean set of alloy wheels that are wrapped in new tires.

One advantage that modern Pickups enjoy over this classic is that they are typically loaded with creature comforts. This F150 features air conditioning and an AM radio, with both working as they should. The same is true of the gauges and lights, meaning that this Pickup has no interior functional issues. The Tan cloth seatcover is free from significant wear, and the matching carpet looks amazing for its age. The dash and pad haven’t suffered due to age, while the faux woodgrain adds a classy and luxurious air. The overall condition of this interior suggests that the vehicle has been treated respectfully since Day One.

Lifting the hood reveals the party piece with this F150. The first owner teamed the range-topping 400ci V8 with a three-speed automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. This classic may have emerged from the depths of The Malaise Era, but its V8 generates 169hp and 315 ft/lbs of torque. Those figures will allow it to carry a full load in its bed while towing and venturing into the wilderness should be effortless. The seller recently treated this Pickup to a new fuel tank, pump, rubber fuel lines, a master cylinder, and a carburetor. The vehicle runs and drives well, and is a turnkey proposition for the winning bidder.

Some vehicles can quickly fall from favor in the classic market, but history suggests that Pickups won’t suffer that fate. This 1977 Ford F150 Ranger XLT is listed here on eBay in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey. Thirteen bids have pushed the price to $8,100, which is below the reserve. You could walk into your local Ford dealership and drive away behind the wheel of a new F150, but that will lighten your wallet by around $43,000. It will also be a depreciating asset that will cause angst if the buyer ventures into the wilderness. This 1977 example will cost significantly less and will take its occupants anywhere that the newer version will. Adding to its appeal is the fact that values for these vehicles have climbed steadily during the past few years. Therefore, there is a good chance that the new owner could enjoy this classic for a few years, eventually selling it at a profit. That sounds like a win/win to me.