It is often said that the 1980s was the decade that taste forgot. When you consider the clothes, the huge hair, and the even “huger” shoulder pads, it’s easy to see why people feel that way. However, the late 1970s produced its share of memorable moments, and vehicle graphics was an area where designers chose to demonstrate their creative flair. One look at this 1979 Pinto Cruising Wagon should help the uninitiated understand what I mean. The stripes owe nothing to subtly, but they manage to look cool in a rather strange way. This Wagon recently emerged from a Chicago shed and is a one-owner survivor. It needs work but is far from a lost cause. If a Pinto has been on your Wish List, but you crave something unusual, you will find this Ford listed here on eBay in Chicago, Illinois. The seller has set a BIN of $15,900, although they leave the option to make an offer. We always appreciate the support of our readers in locating and referring desirable or interesting classics to us, so I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Larry D for spotting this beauty.

Ford endeavored to inject some excitement into its Pinto Wagon range in 1977 by introducing the Cruising Wagon package. This brought no mechanical upgrades to the table, but potential buyers could choose between two graphics sets to adorn their new toy’s exterior. The “Standards Graphics” set was relatively restrained, but this beast wears the more extravert “Standard Graphics.” The vinyl additions aren’t on speaking terms with subtlety, announcing loudly and proudly what this Wagon is. The package also brought a pair of oh-so-1970s porthole windows. The original owner of this classic added the glass sunroof option to personalize their purchase further. The vehicle’s White paint looks good for its age, with no significant flaws or defects. It would benefit from a refresh, but its condition is acceptable for a survivor-grade car. Replacing the stickers may be challenging if the new owner considers the restoration path. I performed an admittedly brief online search but failed to find a decal kit. More time and patience could produce a better result, but if not, it might pay to consult a signwriter or wrap company to see if they can recreate replacements before commencing the restoration. Otherwise, the panels are straight, the trim looks nice, and the tinted glass is flawless.

I would love to tell you this Wagon is rust-free, but it does have some issues. This tailgate photo reveals what may be the worst of them, although other spots are visible in the lower body extremities. Beyond what is visible, the seller refers to the Pinto as solid. They say the floors and underside look fine, but it will take an in-person inspection to confirm it. If there are no dramas, returning the panels to a rust-free state should not be hard work.

If the Pinto’s Wagon lacks subtlety, the interior trim raises the stakes considerably. Acres of dazzling orange vinyl would almost compel you to wear a set of shades inside this classic at night! Its overall condition is impressive, with any damage seemingly limited to the driver’s seat. I hoped it was repairable, but I fear it has gone beyond the point of no return. It need not be the end of the world because I had no trouble locating replacement covers in the correct material and color for under $300. The remaining upholstered surfaces, dash, pad, and carpet look great for their age. The Cruising Wagon package brought interior upgrades like a factory tachometer and a sports wheel. The original owner added air conditioning and an AM/FM radio to make life on the road pleasant.

As the 1970s progressed, the Pinto was hit as hard as any other vehicle by tightening emission regulations. By 1979, its 2.3-liter OHC four-cylinder engine produced 88hp, and when bolted to a four-speed manual transmission, it propelled the Wagon through the ¼ mile in 19.2 seconds. However, the vehicle could cruise happily at highway speed, and fuel economy figures of 28mpg were easily achieved. That helped emphasize Ford’s focus on the Pinto as an affordable commuter option. This Cruising Wagon is original, and it does run and drive. The seller indicates it sat for an extended period and wisely recommends that the buyer subjects it to a thorough inspection before undertaking any long journeys.

It wasn’t that many years ago when a room would have filled with laughter if someone had said that a First Generation Bronco would become a desirable classic, but it now occupies a spot on the automotive “must have” list. I raise this because the same trend is beginning to emerge with the Pinto. It will probably never rate among the greats of the classic world, but values are climbing steadily. These little beasts don’t appeal to everyone, but you don’t see many on our roads, making them the perfect conversation starter at a Cars & Coffee. Considering the work required to return the vehicle to a pristine state, I believe the seller may be overreaching with their BIN figure. However, it might be worth submitting a respectful offer if you’re genuinely interested because today could be your lucky day.