Sometimes it is documentation that separates a good classic from a great one. Take this 1976 Ford F150 Ranger XLT as a prime example. It is a solid and rust-free Californian survivor. However, the inclusion of a collection of paperwork tracing much of its history helps to increase its inherent desirability. The seller listed the F150 here on Craigslist in Del Mar, California. They set their price at $16,900, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Zappenduster for spotting this beauty.

This F150 is part of Ford’s Sixth Generation F-Series range that was marketed in North America from 1972 until 1979. It proved a winner, helping to explain why it soldiered on in overseas markets for a few extra years after US production ended. The first owner ordered this classic in 1976, selecting Wimbledon White paint to cloak its exterior. The seller describes the Pickup as an unrestored survivor, making the presence of minor cosmetic imperfections unsurprising. There is visible paint deterioration that would be easy to address via a cosmetic refresh, but many readers will find its current appearance very appealing. This Ford has spent its life in a dry location, allowing it to remain rust-free. The exterior steel and floors are clean, while the frame wears nothing beyond light surface corrosion. The trim condition is easily acceptable for a vehicle of this caliber, and the glass is clear.

This Pickup’s interior is a pleasant surprise, with only the cracked dashpad as a sign of UV exposure. Otherwise, the Red cloth and vinyl trim is in good order, with only a few small marks and deterioration of the seat’s edge piping. The carpet looks clean, the headliner hasn’t waved the white flag, and there are no visible aftermarket additions. The first owner didn’t load this F150 to the brim with luxury features, but the original Window Sticker confirms it features air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo radio, a remote driver’s mirror, ammeter and oil pressure gauges, and a sliding rear window.

Ford offered 1976 F150 buyers a wide selection of engines to power their new purchase. The first owner of our feature Pickup teamed a 390ci V8 with a three-speed automatic transmission and power-assisted steering and brakes. The 390 generates 161hp and 315 ft/lbs of torque, allowing it to tow or carry heavy loads effortlessly. This one should also cruise comfortably at freeway speeds, although it will probably drink fairly heavily from its tank under those circumstances. The seller states that the Window Sticker is only the first piece of this classic’s paperwork puzzle. The buyer also receives the Build Sheet, Dealer documentation, and a wide selection of service invoices. They recently spent $4,000 to have a mechanic go over the vehicle with a fine-toothed comb. The result is a Pickup that runs and drives like new and is a turnkey proposition for its new owner.

If anything surprises me about this 1976 Ford F150 Ranger XLT, it is the fact that it is still available after being listed more than a week ago. It isn’t perfect, but the seller’s price looks competitive in the current market. Perhaps it is one of those undiscovered treasures that is simply waiting for the right person to spot it. The additional exposure it has received via Barn Finds might be the push it needs to find a new home. Are you tempted by this fantastic survivor?