Whether it is a big engine or a lifted suspension, there's something special about a big truck. Here are our 10 favorites from the 2025 Carlisle Ford Nationals.
Intro
We love Ford trucks in all shapes and sizes. Bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better. But sometimes it does. There's just something special about a big ol’ Ford truck. And as usual, there were plenty of them on display at the 2025 Carlisle Ford Nationals. There was no way a little bit of rain was going to keep these big boys from showing up. We picked out ten of our favorite big boy trucks that we spotted at the show this year.
When we say big boy trucks, we're referring to either the size of the engine, the size of the truck itself, the size of the wheels and tires, or a combination of everything. Some of the trucks on our list are bigger than others, but that is just the way it goes sometimes, right fellas? Anyway, we didn’t think that ranking by size would be fair, so our list is ranked from oldest to newest. Does anyone here own any of these big boys?
1. 1977 F-150 Ranger
I am taking a bit of a guess on the year as I didn’t spot any build information on this truck, but it looks like a 1977 to me. Why does this truck make the list? Well, first of all, you gotta love the Harlequin color scheme. If regular two-tone trucks are cool, then a 6-tone truck is even cooler. The truck sits high and proud with the perfect patina. Upgraded LED headlights are a nod to modern functionality and safety. Plus, cab roof running lights always look awesome. This is a simple and good-looking truck.
2. 1978 F-350 Ranger Dump Truck
I was lucky enough to speak to the owner of this beautiful truck for a few moments at the show. He was wiping it down with pride in between the rain showers. The truck has been in his family since 1981. One look at it and you can tell it has been well-loved for many years. It looks almost brand new despite being built during the Carter administration. The good looks are also at odds with a vehicle that was clearly built to do some serious work. This is a great truck.
3. 1978 F-100
What is not to love here? A 1978 F-100 setup to be a Baja race truck. And not just any race truck, but a truck inspired by the Fillmore Ford F-100, originally driven by Ivan "Ironman" Stewart and Rob Halley. This was one of the coolest trucks of the entire show, and at a place like the Ford Nationals, that is really saying something.
4. 1979 F-150 Custom Flareside
This 1979 F-150 Custom Flareside was originally equipped with the Free Wheeling Package A. It looks great in Raven Black. Under the hood is a 351 cubic inch V8 engine, which was rated at 160 horsepower back in the day. It might not have the power of a modern Ford truck, but it has more than enough style to make up for it.
5. 1986 C7000 Tilt Cab
This might be the biggest big boy of them all. This 1986 C7000 Tilt Cab was originally purchased by the Florida Department of Transportation. Under the hood is a 10.4L Caterpillar diesel engine that originally made 175 horsepower. That was enough for a top speed of 50 mph in this rig. Some modifications to this truck from its original spec include aftermarket wheels, a chrome front bumper and grille, LED lights all around, and tinted windows. Oh, and you can’t miss the Vandelay Industries logo on the door.
6. 1992 Custom E350 Car Carrier
Need something to haul your Mustang? How about this custom E350 car carrier with a Ford 460 big block under the hood? The rig comes with everything you need to tow your vehicle, even an extra set of race ramps for low clearance vehicles. This wonderful big boy was for sale at the show with an asking price of $19,000.
7. 2000 F-250 V10
This awesome rig is affectionately known as “Black Betty” and her modification list is extensive. Some highlights include a 4-inch MBRP dual cat back exhaust, 8-inch Rough Country leaf springs, Skyjacker Black Max dual front shocks, rear shocks, and dual stabilizer. It rides on giant 44-inch tires. This V10-powered beast will get you anywhere you want to go.
8. 2011 F-250 King Ranch
It is tough to beat a 2011 F-250 King Ranch riding on Mickey Thompson Baja Boss tires wrapped around bronze Method Race wheels. The headlights have also been upgraded with LEDs. There is nothing over the top about this truck. It is just clean, tasteful, and cool. It was one of the show favorites and, with those classic looks, it will probably remain a show favorite for many years to come.
9. 2023 – 2025 F-150 Raptor R
The F-150 Raptor R. The fastest and most powerful (as far as horsepower) Ford pickup truck ever made. How could we not include it on our list? Even on 37-inch all-terrain tires, this truck will rocket you to 60 mph in well under 4 seconds. Want to go off-road? No problem, the Raptor R will get you wherever you want to go, and get you there quickly. In 2025, there isn't another truck like this on the market. You rarely get to see one of these on the street but that is part of what makes the Carlisle Ford Nationals so great. You can find anything here.
10. 2024 F-450 Limited Dually
When looking at new trucks, they don’t get much bigger than this. Or more expensive. This truck carried an MSRP that started well over six figures. But for that, you got the 6.7L High Output Power Stroke that generates 1,200 pound-feet of torque. You also get six wheels and lovely two-tone Admiral Blue and Light Slate leather seats. Also, Ford throws every technology system they have in this truck. It is a modern-day marvel.
Images: Joe Kucinski
