Dubbed the “dentside” for its distinctive body lines, the
sixth-generation Ford F-150 remains one of the most beloved pickups ever made. This 1978 F-150 Ranger Short Bed, offered by Vintage Chariots in Orange County, California, takes that appeal up a notch. Priced at $27,500, it’s overflowing with character—dings, scratches, and all—making it the perfect truck to get in and drive the wheels off.
Will it be you behind the wheel? You should make it so.
The Model
This truck comes from the sixth generation (of twelve) in the
legendary F-Series lineup—the best-selling pickup in the United States for 44 years and the best-selling vehicle overall for 35. That’s an astounding run by any measure.
Produced from 1973 through 1979, this generation’s design received a subtle facelift for the 1978–1979 model years. The new front fascia featured a larger, one-piece grille flanked by headlamps housed outside the grille and turn signals mounted directly below. While the 1978 Custom trim retained round headlights, higher trims such as the Ranger, Ranger XLT, and Ranger Lariat received rectangular headlamps, optional chrome bezels, and a chrome grille insert.
This particular example checks several desirable boxes, including the Ranger trim, short bed configuration, Handling Package, and Convenience Group. It’s also equipped with air conditioning—a must-have in most parts of the country.
The Specs
One of just 575 built in Cinnamon Glow paint with Ranger short-bed trim in 1978, this F-150 carries its bumps and bruises with pride. Ahead of the sale, Vintage Chariots performed a full tune-up on its 351-cu.-in. V8, added new wheels and tires, and fitted a Black Widow–branded exhaust.
Mechanical
- 351-cu.-in. V8 engine
- New Process 4-speed manual transmission
- Limited-slip front axle
- 3.50 limited-slip rear axle
- Power steering
Interior
- Tan leather upholstery
- Ammeter and oil-pressure gauges
- Air conditioning
- AM/FM radio
- Convenience Group
Body & Exterior
- Vinyl bodyside moldings
- Painted rear step bumper
- Kumho Road Venture AT51 33×12.50R15 tires
- 15-inch Eagle Alloy wheels
This 1978 Ford F-150 Ranger Short Bed has been sold, but you can find your next rare, classic, or custom truck or 4×4 on Fourbie Exchange.