Ford Lands 3 Trucks on Hemming's Affordable Collectibles of the '70s List
Daily Slideshow: What reasonably-priced 1970s Ford trucks would be on your list of present and future collectibles? We check out Hemmings' picks, add one of our own, and open the floor for discussion.
Timing is Everything
Everyone loves a first-generation Bronco, there’s no disputing that fact, but it’s a 1960s design that lived on into the ‘70s, and its racing history, pleasing design, and well-established popular fanbase have long since lifted the classic SUV out of the affordable class. But, just as prices for classic muscle car era vehicles have shown no sign of stagflation, the models that came just after have been ripe for a tug upward. Hemmings put together this list of ‘70s collectibles, “based on affordability, accessibility, and workability.” They point out that, due to the ruggedness of the vehicles and continued availability of parts, either OEM or repros, these trucks are easier to keep on the road than your average collector car. With styling every bit as individual and arguably just as pleasing as muscle car era vehicles, and featuring drivetrains carried over, albeit in a muzzled state, from their predecessors—they warrant serious consideration as collectible vehicles. As an added bonus, some ‘70s rides took wild ‘60s graphics and turned them up a notch or five.
Bronco Free-Wheelin’ Package
A case in point is the Free-Wheelin’ Package Bronco. Available on vans, Couriers, and F-series pickups, Ford’s wild Free-Wheelin’ Package somehow seemed to fit second-gen Broncos the best of the bunch. The darkest red to happy yellow tequila sunrise graphics could be combined with roll bars, custom wheels, blacked-out bumpers, and colorful interior packages to add even more of the ‘70s version of bling to the line.
Finding One
Free-Wheelin’ Broncos make good collection candidates because they still aren’t that hard to find, though don’t expect the original wheels to be intact. Although sunnier climes will yield the most well-preserved metal, the graphics on those vehicles tended to fade through years of heavy UV exposure. Luckily the signature stripes are being reproduced!
F-350 Super Camper Special
Some of our staffers say sixth-gen F-series Fords are finest looking pickups ever built. Not everyone in the office agrees with them, but it is a classic design, in addition to its solid status as a reliable workhorse. Huge production numbers ensure that F-series can still be had and in numerous variations. Hemmings singled out the Super Camper Special for umm... special note. The model was based around a one-ton narrow-frame platform and built to service the early ‘70s camping boom. Ford made the trucks starting in 1973, dropping the “Super” part of the name in 1978, before winding up production with the end of ‘79. Not only are the beds stretched, the wheelbase was as well (out to 140 inches) to help stabilize slide-in style campers—great for hauling your home-away-from-home down the interstate but not so ideal for tight turns. These Camper Specials are easy to spot—just look for the hideaway spare tire cover panel ahead of the rear wheel well on the passenger side bed exterior.
Sixth Generation Ranchero
While the Ranchero’s competition, the Chevrolet El Camino, lost some size during the ‘70s, Ford when the other direction. Torino-based 6th-gen (1972-1976) Rancheros lack a little of the hot rod charm of their immediate predecessors but made up for it with pure flair. Featuring the same distinctive raised ridge over its haunches as its Torino and station wagon stablemates, the car/trucks shape is destined to appear more appealing with each passing year.
429 Power
We might have buried the lead with these: 6th-gen Rancheros were available with a full set of Torino-style options, some years including cool graphics, hood scoops, Magnum 500 wheels, four-speed transmissions, a Cobra Jet, or the mighty 429 ci V8.
Seventh Generation Ranchero
In the more of a good thing department, literally more, we’re adding the 7th-gen Ranchero—the last of the breed—to Hemmings’ trio of picks. Still available with killer graphics and up to 400 ci V8s, ‘77-’79 LTD II-based Rancheros are also poised to appreciate in coming years. Not only do these things work as trucks, but they are also likely to attract the same land yacht crowd that takes to similarly square MkV Lincoln Continentals. And if you tire of their looks, that can be fixed with a quick and easy front clip/grille swap from Cougars, Montegos, and even Thunderbirds. That’s a whole lot to love.