Walking into a showroom and driving away in a vehicle ideal for towing or off-road adventures is irresistible for some, and such vehicles provide all the bells and whistles to make such undertakings enjoyable and comfortable. However, that approach also brings two significant negatives: cost and depreciation. Most vehicles of that type will significantly lighten a buyer’s wallet, and its value will drop sharply during the first three years of ownership. Classic Pickups are an alternative worth considering. They are typically less expensive, and if treated respectfully, they are usually an appreciating asset. That makes this 1979 Ford F-350 Custom 4×4 worth more than a passing glance. It presents well for its age, the engine bay houses a V8 renowned for low-down power and torque, and the original owner’s decision to equip it with the optional Tow Package means it should comfortably haul some heavy loads effortlessly. The F-350 is listed here on eBay in Nampa, Idaho. Bidding has surged beyond the reserve to sit at $19,200 at the time of writing.

Ford’s Sixth Generation F-Series graced showroom floors from the end of 1972 until 1979. Our feature F-350 rolled off the line during the final production year, and it is a gem. The original owner ordered it in a combination of Medium Copper Metallic and Cream, and its condition is impressive for a vehicle of this type and age. The paint isn’t perfect, but with the seller not mentioning repairs or restoration, it appears it might be original. There are minor chips and marks, but the rich shine ensures it will turn more heads today than it would have in 1979. The bed is in good order, and the underside shots confirm this classic is as solid as the day the original owner took delivery. The chrome and tinted glass are in good order, with the sliding rear window a practical feature. The Ford rolls on larger wheels and chunky BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A tires that should enhance its 4×4 capabilities.

F-350 buyers in 1979 could choose from five engines to power their new purchase. This Pickup’s first owner stepped up and selected the range-topping 460ci V8, producing 200hp and approximately 350 ft/lbs of torque. That power feeds to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Throw in power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes, the factory Tow Package, Trailer Special suspension, and the Handling Package with sway bars, and this 4×4 should be comfortable in all circumstances. Modern vehicles of this type typically produce more power and torque than the new owner will have at their disposal with this F-350. Still, the low-end delivery of this V8 means hooking up a trailer or loading up the bed shouldn’t cause any problems. The seller supplies no information on how this beauty runs or drives, but the clean presentation and bulletproof nature of the mechanical components suggest the news should be positive. They seem approachable, so posing that question before submitting a bid should be possible. There is one other reason why this Pickup could be a hot ticket. These aren’t sophisticated vehicles, and a competent person can perform most maintenance tasks in a home workshop. That should save a significant sum each year, and that money can be used to fund the adventures that this classic could make possible.

One of the pitfalls of buying a new 4×4 for off-road adventures is that they invariably feature cloth trim and carpet that can become stained and marked as mud, and other “icky” substances almost inevitably find their way inside the vehicle. That makes cleaning a chore and can result in some owners thinking twice before embarking on such adventures. That isn’t a consideration with this F-350, courtesy of the vinyl seatcover and floor mat. These are easy-clean items that are also in exceptional condition. There are no signs of wear or abuse, and the dash, pad, and faux woodgrain are in good order. Aftermarket additions include a column-mounted tachometer and retro-style stereo. Combined with the factory air conditioning, they should help to make life on the road pretty pleasant.

Would you like to park this 1979 Ford F-350 Custom 4×4 in your garage? You might need to fight for it if that is the case because it has already received thirty-seven bids as interested parties put their money where their mouth is. I can understand the interest because this classic appears to need nothing. You could buy the more expensive new Pickup or purchase this gem that is in exceptional condition, has more character, and is guaranteed to receive favorable comments wherever it goes. I know which I’d choose. What about you?