When a seller places a classic on the market, and it attracts thirty-three bids in under two days, you can be sure that the vehicle has struck a sweet spot with potential buyers. Such is the case with this 1978 Ford F250 Ranger Lariat. It isn’t perfect, but with a refurbished interior, no rust, and a 460ci V8 under the hood, it is easy to see why so many people like what they see. Of course, the seller’s decision to offer this F250 with No Reserve has undoubtedly helped its cause. They have listed the Pickup here on eBay in Lakewood, Washington. Bidding sits at $4,292 for a classic that is days away from finding a new home.
History confirms that the F-Series has become the backbone of Ford’s passenger vehicle range. It struck an immediate chord with buyers in the post-war years, and the F150 remains the benchmark in Pickup sales. Ford released the Sixth Generation for the 1973 model year, offering buyers an almost bewildering range of choices. The last examples left the lot in 1979, with the first owner ordering this F250 Ranger Lariat the year before. They chose to cloak its exterior in what the company called Deluxe Tu-Tone in a combination of Silver Metallic and Bright Red. The seller states that while the Red is original, they believe a previous owner refreshed the Silver. However, it has deteriorated to the point where a repeat performance is justified. There are some minor bumps and marks, and a few trim pieces exhibit damage. The winning bidder won’t have to contend with rust, but will need to replace the cracked windshield. The remaining glass is clear, and the F250 rolls on factory alloy wheels.
F250 buyers in 1978 faced a wide range of engine options for their new purchase. This Lariat’s first owner went for the top shelf, teaming a 460ci V8 with a three-speed automatic transmission. They also ticked the boxes beside power steering and power brakes, guaranteeing an effortless driving experience. The secret to the 460’s success wasn’t its 220hp, but its exceptional low-end torque delivery. It’s what I refer to as a “lazy” engine, meaning the driver doesn’t need to wring its neck to extract maximum performance. That would make it ideal for carrying heavy loads or for effectively utilizing this classic’s hitch receiver. The seller confirms that this Lariat is in excellent mechanical condition. The V8 springs to life at a twist of the key, and the vehicle runs and drives well. It is ready for action with a new owner behind the wheel.
Ordering the Lariat package delivered a more luxurious interior and a tilt wheel as standard equipment. This vehicle also features functioning cruise control, while aftermarket additions include a CD player and a Kelsey Hayes trailer brake. If this F250 has a visual highlight, the interior scores that honor. The seller recently fitted a new seatcover in Red cloth and vinyl, and also installed matching carpet. The original factory floor mats protect the latter, while the rest of the interior is exceptionally tidy for a vehicle of this type and age. It has no apparent needs and should provide a comfortable motoring experience.
If I were to pick one word to describe this 1978 Ford F250 Ranger Lariat, it would be “honest.” The seller hasn’t hidden its imperfections, confirming that, apart from its refurbished interior, potential buyers should consider it a survivor-grade classic. The auction action confirms that many people agree, and barring unforeseen circumstances, it will head to a new home in less than a week. If you are seeking a competent tow vehicle, could this F250 be a contender?
a/c pump gone
Beautiful truck, Survivor! Nice example of when trucks were simple and affordable. This thing is really nice đź‘Ś someone will grab it up and fix the little bugs. Wish I had some “fun money” I’m about to advertise my K10 and I hope it draws the attention this beauty does.
This is what we call a “Cowboy Cadillac”. The Lariat package was a rare sight on these trucks, combined with the 460 and “camper special” package, this is a rare truck. Back in the 80’s I spent years, looking for a truck just like this with 4wd, never came close. The only Lariat I could find was an F-150. This was the pinnacle of Ford trucks. IMHO, in the late 70’s into the 80’s, this was the best and most luxurious truck you could get.
It’s interesting that different regions can give trucks different nicknames. Out in the Chinook Belt the “Cowboy Cadillac” moniker was used on a GM 1-ton dualie; the Ford Version got the “Cowboy Continental.” Dodge was a—“Dodge.” I might add that those were also diesel powered. Regardless, I sure wouldn’t kick this off my driveway.
I love it! Need more pics, especially the interior, and rust spots!
Scroll down to the bottom of the E-Bay add there are pictures of the interior which looks to be in really nice shape.
Aren’t those wheel covers?
Nice truck.What kind of gas mileage does a 460 get?
23 gallons to the mile……………………..in reality, 8-9 mpg.
Very nice truck, great to see it still on the road. Those aren’t the factory alloy wheels, but OEM Ford hubcaps from a slightly newer line of Ford trucks. They still look great, however. Has the camper special and lariat badges, could be correct.
Also, it appears that it had factory air conditioning, but is missing some components.
A few other minor inconsistencies, but hey, it is almost 50 years old, and things come and go on these old vehicles, as we know.
Make sure that the OEM cruise control functions safely, update the A/C system, make sure the braking system is fresh and correct, and just drive it and enjoy it. I would.
If you have to ask what kind of fuel mileage that a 460 gets, well……
Who’s brilliant idea was it to take the snorkel off of the air cleaner and have it open directly above a plastic fuel filter which would easily melt shooting gasoline everywhere in a fire in the carburetor?
Reminds me of a 78 F100 I bought from a friend, it had a 300 in line 6, what a truck that was, 3 on the tree, no AC, white, I put red carpet, limo tinted the windows, put in a headliner and upholstered the seat with tuck and roll corduroy, redid the dash, all red inside, and it was a short bed, was rolling on 15×10 chrome Razor Blades, this truck looked Bad Ass, when my friend saw it, he told me he regretted selling to me, had it for 7 years, I paid 2,200$ for it,nevertheless I had to sell it because the kids needed AC And more space, bought a 93 Silverado extended cab, but I sold it for 2700$ and that engine never burned a quart of oil,it had 250,000 miles on it and it purred like a kitten, who ever gets this truck is going to be a very happy lucky person, TO THIS DAY, I STILL MISS MY FORD!!!!
This truck is a great example of a weekend workhorse that can double as a camper, Whether you slide it in or tow it. Cleaned up it would also be welcome at shows / cars & coffee.