Finished in its factory-correct Raven Black over a Cordovan Explorer cloth/vinyl interior, this highly original 1979 Ford F-150 Explorer 4×4 offered by Dover Speed Shop in Stow, Massachusetts represents the kind of honest classic that’s becoming nearly impossible to find. Showing off its original paint, original sheet metal, and a documented factory Explorer Package configuration backed by a Marti Report, this half-ton Ford is powered by its factory 400ci V8 paired to the original C6 automatic transmission and 4.11 Traction-Lok-equipped drivetrain. Loaded with desirable period options including factory A/C, dual fuel tanks, orange tape stripes, wheel lip moldings, handling package, and tilt steering, this Idaho-preserved dentside is offered for its next caretaker.
- Explorer-Era Pickup: The 1979 model year marked the final evolution of Ford’s iconic sixth-generation “Dentside” F-Series, a body style that helped cement the F-150 as America’s best-selling truck. Trucks equipped with the Explorer Package added distinctive trim, upgraded interiors, brightwork, and graphics that perfectly captured late-’70s truck styling, and classics wearing their original paint and trim are increasingly difficult to find today.
- Big-Block Backed: Under the hood sits the factory 400 cubic-inch V8 paired with its original C6 automatic transmission and a 4.11 Traction-Lok rear axle. According to the included Marti Report, this F-150 was also factory-equipped with power steering, power brakes, the Handling Package, Super Cooling Radiator, and dual fuel tanks, making it a highly capable full-size 4×4 both on-road and off.
- Factory-Correct Presence: Finished in factory-code Raven Black with original orange Explorer tape stripes, this truck retains its original paint and 100% original sheet metal with no patch panels. Additional factory features include wheel lip moldings, chrome rear step bumper, tinted glass, sliding rear window, raised white-letter tires, rocker panel moldings, and Explorer Package trim that remains impressively preserved throughout.
- Cordovan Time Capsule: Inside, the original Cordovan Explorer cloth/vinyl Ranger bench seat interior presents as a remarkably intact snapshot of late-1970s Ford truck design. Factory options include air conditioning, tilt steering, AM/FM stereo, auxiliary oil pressure gauges, speed control, convenience group equipment, and dual electric horns, while the seller reports all gauges and lights functioning properly.
- Dry-Climate Provenance: According to the seller, this F-150 spent its life in the dry climate of Idaho before recently arriving in New England, helping preserve its original floors, frame, doors, and bed. The truck is said to run and drive excellent, retains a clean title, and includes a Deluxe Marti Report documenting its original factory specifications and production details.
Powertrain & Chassis
- Factory 400ci V8
- Original C6 automatic transmission
- 4×4 drivetrain
- 4.11 Traction-Lok rear axle
- Power steering
- Power brakes
- Handling Package
- Super Cooling Radiator
- Dual fuel tanks
- Factory tow hooks
Exterior
- Factory Raven Black paint
- Original paint truck
- Original orange Explorer tape stripes
- 100% original sheet metal
- No patch panels
- Explorer Package
- Wheel lip moldings
- Rocker panel moldings
- Chrome rear step bumper
- Sliding rear window
- Tinted glass
- Raised white-letter tires
- Original trim in excellent condition
Interior
- Original Cordovan Explorer cloth/vinyl Ranger bench seat
- Factory air conditioning
- Tilt steering wheel
- AM/FM stereo
- Auxiliary oil pressure gauges
- Speed control
- Convenience Group
- Dual electric horns
Additional Highlights
- Marti Report included
- Idaho truck prior to New England ownership
- Original floors with no holes or rot
- Solid frame, bed, and doors
- Gauges and lights reportedly functional
- Clean title
- Transport assistance available
With its documented factory options, original paint, dry-climate history, and exceptionally honest presentation, this 1979 Ford F-150 Explorer 4×4 checks nearly every box enthusiasts look for in a dentside Ford. Trucks this original rarely surface.
Contact the selling dealer for more information, to schedule a test drive, or to make a purchase.