1957 Ford Custom Ranchero
Ford’s innovative design combined passenger car comfort with pickup truck utility in a groundbreaking vehicle that defied traditional automotive categories.
The Custom model featured Fairlane-style chrome “checkmark” side trim, additional brightwork, and a deluxe steering wheel that distinguished it from the base Ranchero.
This “double-duty beauty” was essentially a two-door Ranch Wagon with the rear roof section removed and replaced by a cargo bed with a one-piece floor. The concept allowed owners to haul furniture, garden supplies, and other cargo while maintaining the ride quality and styling of a conventional automobile.
Power came from a 272 CI overhead valve V8 rated at 190 horsepower, though buyers could also choose from a wide range of engines, including the 223 CI inline-six and larger V8 options up to 312 CI. A three-speed manual transmission was standard, with overdrive and Ford-O-Matic automatic available.
The 116-inch wheelbase provided a stable platform, while coil-spring independent front suspension and semi-elliptic leaf springs with a live rear axle handled the suspension duties.
Ford’s marketing proclaimed it was “More Than A Car! More Than A Truck!” and the concept proved successful enough to inspire competitors. The clean, attractive design remains memorable decades later, representing one of the earliest examples of a car-based pickup.
Source
