1971 F-100: Would You Rock This Modernized Cruiser?
Chromeless 1971 F-100 has a modern look and a nice price. But would you drive it, or nah?
It’s a tough pill for us old-school truck guys to swallow, but chrome isn’t as cool as it used to be. The shiny stuff used to represent upper trim models, setting fancy trucks apart from the average workhorse. Today, painted surfaces have taken over. Admittedly, the lack of “brightwork” does add a modern flair to most trucks, but is that the case with today’s find — a 1971 F-100? We ran across this sweet street machine on the San Fernando Craigslist.
The old F-Series has been completely robbed of its chrome in favor of gloss black paint on most of the trim. A matching set of Foose wheels, which are nicely tucked into the wheel wells completes the look. If all that isn’t enough, the F-100 has been painted in a thoroughly modern flat red on the remaining body panels and trim.
Despite the old truck’s modern appearance, all the mechanical components remain struck in the ’70s. The original 360/4-speed drivetrain combo is still in service. Things inside are mostly original as well, but also rather tidy and clean. The bench seat has clearly been recovered, and everything from the dash to the door panels looks fresh.
Different? Absolutely. Blasphemy? Well, that’s for you to decide. But we’re kind of digging on this ’71. As much as we appreciate the retention of original chrome and a stock ride height, we also dig the modern and street machine look. Especially at the reasonable price of $11,000 bucks.
What about you?