Was the 1970s the Golden Era of Ford Trucks?
Maybe vintage Ford trucks have more miles and less amenities; or maybe they are the ultimate ride.
Recently, I got into a conversation about American cars and trucks of the 1970s. To clarify, by conversation–I do mean a bit of an argument. My position is that some of the finest trucks ever made were the Ford F-series of the fifth- and sixth-generation. And if I need to go down with this ship, I will. Plus, I add this 1971 Ford F-250 to further back up my position.
That is a truck. This F-250, produced in the last year of its generation, is just about perfect. And I know I am not alone in this.
Ford produced the fifth-generation F-series from 1967 to 1972. The sixth-gen Fords rounded out the decade from 1973 to 1979. These bumpsides and dentsides represent some of the greatest feats in automotive design.
In the 50 years since it came off the lines, Ford has come a long way. Each subsequent generation picked up more: More tech, more creature comforts, more horsepower, more options, more room, more everything. And I have enjoyed each generation. Ford always impresses with its performance alone. But extra points for progress and improvements.
Ford evolves and will keep doing so exceptionally. Were the 1970s the greatest generation (s) for Ford trucks? As it turns out, that very much depends on what flips your switch and what you use your truck for.
Fuel efficiency is an area where the fifth- and sixth-gen trucks are at a disadvantage. Towing capability today is considerably easier. And they lacked in utilizing the right powerplant for some trucks. Adding to this is the simple fact that classic vehicle ownership is rarely turn key, requires an investment in time and sometimes money. No, it is not always easy.
However. It is worth it. For those that get it, they get it. 1970s Ford trucks have got the looks. And they offer a very satisfying driving experience. In the end, isn’t that what really matters? It is a visceral thing. Everyone has that car or truck that just feels so damn great to drive.
That brings me to Mark M.’s “Ole Blue.” For Mark, this F-250 is a dream come true.
“I’ve always wanted a Ford pickup. My favorite is the ’67-’72; because that’s what I remember as a kid, and my brothers have one or two themselves,” he says. He finally found his dream truck in Las Vegas, and purchased it from the original owner.
“It was a little rough, but my intent was never a show truck, but something that could be used,” he adds. “I finally have it how I want it: a useful beast. It took 14 years and a lot of LMC parts but it was worth the wait.”
Ole Blue is 50 years old. 50! Not confident that in 50 years we will see crossovers and SUVs selling like hotcakes on the resale market. Nor are they likely to inspire dreamers to wrench away, restore, and rebuild.
Ford has made a lot of great trucks over the years; and I am already weak-kneed at the upcoming Bronco. However, for some the perfect truck is not the next-generation. It is about going back to that special ride that changed the way you looked at and experienced cars and trucks.
If you won the lottery today, what Ford would you buy?
Photos: Ford; LMC
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