Survivor-grade Pickups invariably attract plenty of attention when they hit the market, and this 1979 Ford F-250 Ranger XLT is no exception. Part of the attraction could be the impressive condition, while the drivetrain promises excellent performance and exceptional off-road capability. However, the seller’s decision to offer this gem with No Reserve may explain why it has attracted twenty-three bids. If a tow vehicle has been on your radar, this F-250 deserves a close look.

Ford introduced its Sixth Generation F-Series range for the 1973 model year, employing a new focus on longevity. The latest model sat on its predecessor’s chassis, but the company used various strategies to help combat the rust issues that plagued earlier models. These included utilizing different types of steel and paints with a high zinc content, designed to keep tin worm at bay. The range remained on sale until 1979, and the high survival rate suggests the new approach was worthwhile. Our feature F-250 Ranger XLT emerged in 1979, and its first owner ordered it in Wimbledon White. Its presentation is impressive for a vehicle of this type and age, with no significant paint or panel problems. The underside shots confirm it is rust-free, while the spray-on bedliner protects a typically prone area from unwanted damage beyond the minor dings and dents it already sports. The aluminum side steps are a practical feature to improve access, and the trim looks excellent for its age.

The “tidy” theme continues inside this F-250 because there are no significant shortcomings. The seat wears what I believe is a replacement cover that doesn’t match the original pattern. There are no obvious reasons to replace it unless the winning bidder yearns for authenticity. It is free from wear and physical damage, while the carpet looks surprisingly good for a vehicle of this type and age. The dashpad hasn’t succumbed to the typical cracking due to UV exposure, and the remaining trim is in good order. It isn’t loaded with factory options, and the aftermarket radio/cassette player appears to be the only change beyond the seatcover.

Choosing a classic for an off-road adventure or as a practical tow vehicle can be challenging, but this F-250 ticks those boxes. The engine bay houses a 400ci V8 that should deliver 159hp and 276 ft/lbs of torque. The ponies feed to the road via a four-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case, with power assistance for the steering and brakes making light work of the driving experience. The seller claims it has a genuine 62,000 miles on its odometer, although they don’t mention supporting evidence. However, the F-250 runs and drives perfectly, and that V8 will allow the winning bidder to put the hitch receiver to good use.

The seller listed this 1979 Ford F-250 Ranger XLT here on eBay in Lakewood, Washington. The auction action has already pushed the price to $10,100, and there is plenty of time left on their listing. The No Reserve factor means it is days away from finding a new home, and recent sales results suggest it will probably hit $20,000 before the hammer falls. That sounds like a significant investment for a vehicle of this age, but there is a point to ponder. You could walk into your Ford dealer today and drive away in a shiny new F-250 XLT. It would come with more luxury appointments than this Pickup, but you would pay for the privilege. The sticker price would be around $60,000, although that figure could be higher if you add factory options. It will need nothing, but it will depreciate significantly during the first five years. History shows that values for the 1979 model are climbing faster than the market average, and that could be enough to make this F-250 a fantastic long-term investment. Do you agree?