There are plenty of nice old Ford trucks in the world, but this '53 is certainly one of the best you'll ever see.
Nicest '53 in Existence?
There are plenty of nice, restored early Ford pickups out there in the world. But only a small percentage of them can claim to among the best. But this incredible '53 Ford F-100 we spotted at Driver Source certainly fits the bill, no matter how picky you are. In fact, it might just be the nicest '53 we've ever seen.
Photos: Driver Source
6.2.5
Lofty Claims
According to the seller, this particular F-100 was already a one-owner California gem to begin with. But after going through an extensive nut and bolt restoration, it's now even better than new. The seller calls it one of the finest F-100s in existence, which is a lofty but accurate claim in this instance.
Photos: Driver Source
>>Join the conversation about this classic F-100 right here in Ford-Trucks.com.
6.2.5
Attention to Detail
The truck lived its life in Berkley, California, routinely driven by the owner of a gas station and repair shop. Eventually, that business transformed into a restoration shop, mostly specializing in Lotus race cars. But the owners couldn't help but treat this F-100 to the same meticulous, multi-year redo that involved an incredible level of detail typically reserved for much more valuable machines.
Photos: Driver Source
>>Join the conversation about this classic F-100 right here in Ford-Trucks.com.
6.2.5
Solid Base
Of course, the team had a big jump start since this '53 was in such great shape to begin with. They didn't have to massage the body panels too much or adjust gaps. They also left the exterior 100% stock, simply perfecting the panels and spraying the whole thing in several stunning coats of Coral Flame.
Photos: Driver Source
>>Join the conversation about this classic F-100 right here in Ford-Trucks.com.
6.2.5
Low Voltage
The team didn't even bother to upgrade the electrical system from its original 6-volt configuration, which is something most people do even on restorations. Instead, they retained everything including the original radio and simply made it all work as it did back in '53.
Photos: Driver Source
>>Join the conversation about this classic F-100 right here in Ford-Trucks.com.
6.2.5
Simple Excellence
This '53 is also a nicely optioned vehicle to begin with. It originally came with both a heater and radio, things deemed frivolous by many folks back in this era. The interior is as basic as it gets, but sometimes, simple can certainly be a good thing.
Photos: Driver Source
>>Join the conversation about this classic F-100 right here in Ford-Trucks.com.
6.2.5
Perfect Combo
The red paint from the exterior carries over to the interior panels as well, of course. Meanwhile, gray inserts in the door panels and bench seat offer up a little welcome contrast. If there's a better color combo for an early F-Series, we certainly can't think of it.
Photos: Driver Source
>>Join the conversation about this classic F-100 right here in Ford-Trucks.com.
6.2.5
Cost Clipper
Pop the hood, and you'll find the numbers-matching original engine - a 215 cubic-inch inline six-cylinder. This "cost clipper" mill is backed up by a 3-speed manual column-shifted transmission, which sends power back to a 3.92-geared rear axle.
Photos: Driver Source
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6.2.5
Faithful Companion
Despite the many dollars and hours that went into rebuilding this F-100, the owners have driven it 1,260 miles since the work was completed. And why wouldn't they? After all, this truck has served as a faithful companion for decades. And now, it figures to continue that role for many more.
Photos: Driver Source
>>Join the conversation about this classic F-100 right here in Ford-Trucks.com.
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6.2.5
