Hiding in this garage is a 1950s classic that is certain to turn heads. It is a 1957 Ford Ranchero featuring a range of custom touches that don’t detract from its inherent charm. This beauty appears to need nothing, making it ideal for someone wishing to slip behind the wheel for some immediate motoring pleasure. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Ranchero listed here on Craigslist in Burlington, Washington. You could become its new owner for $29,995.

Ford introduced the Ranchero to its range for the 1957 model year, with this vehicle a first-year example that has received plenty of TLC. The seller obtained it from an estate, and it seems that the late owner lavished considerable attention on every aspect, allowing it to accumulate a selection of show trophies. The seller states that there is no evidence of prior repairs, stating that they believe it is rust-free. The Body Tag confirms that it left the factory wearing Willow Green paint, but the build included a color change to a far darker Green Metallic. It also entailed fitting a ’58 hood with its distinctive integrated scoop. Finding anything to criticize about the panels and paint is seemingly impossible, while the bed received a layer of Rhino-liner for protection. Close inspection of the trim reveals some deterioration on the bumpers, but a trip to the platers would fix that. The glass is clear, and the 16″ Cragar SS wheels suit the vehicle’s character perfectly.

The late owner didn’t restrict their attention to the panels and paint, treating the Ranchero’s interior to a stunning retrim in Pale Green and White. Once again, finding fault is seemingly impossible. The painted surfaces shine beautifully, matching the exterior shade. The vinyl shows no evidence of wear, the contrasting Black carpet is excellent, and the White headliner is perfect. The late owner added a tachometer to the left of the steering column, and a set of underdash Auto Meter gauges to monitor the engine’s health. They moved the shifter from the column to the floor, and the only identified inoperative features are the clock and the cigarette lighter.

The seller is unsure whether this Ranchero is numbers-matching, confirming that it features a 292ci Y-Block V8, teamed with a three-speed manual transmission with factory overdrive. They quote a power figure of 206hp for the Y-Block in its factory form, although the ’57 Sales Brochure suggests that 212hp is the correct figure. However, that has been rendered largely irrelevant due to the upgrades performed by the late owner. It is unclear whether the engine features any internal modifications, but it inhales deeply via a Mummert intake and a Holley Sniper EFI system. The spent gases exit through Red’s Headers, with that combination a recipe for unlocking additional ponies. The seller believes that the Ranchero has seen little active service since the build ended, but states that this beauty runs and drives well. It appears that flying in and driving home is a viable option for the new owner.

Examining the photos of this 1957 Ford Ranchero makes it easy to understand how its late owner accumulated a wide selection of show silverware. Its presentation is first-rate, while the mechanical upgrades will have unlocked some significant performance gains. It won’t suit enthusiasts focused on originality, but could be ideal for anyone wishing to combine old-world charm with modern touches. This Ranchero also demonstrates the importance of undertaking research before committing the funds to a classic purchase. I located it on another site with an asking price of $45,000. Therefore, if you find this 1957 Ranchero attractive and want to save a few bucks, contacting the seller via the Craigslist listing would be a great start.