Unlike most restomod projects, this 1953 Ford F-100 ditches the American V8 idea for a Mercedes-Benz engine and drivetrain.
No American V8
When we think of a classic Ford truck restomod, the rumble of a modern American V8 is were the mind immediately goes. After all, if it's achieving modernized performance while keeping the spirit of the classic Ford alive, a new V8 only makes sense. Every so often we see builds that ditch the Ford mill for a GM unit, which is considered sacrilege by many. But rarely do we see a Mercedes-Benz motor worked under the hood of a Ford F-100.
Mercedes 3.2-Liter V6
That's exactly the proposition here, though. And it's an interesting choice for a replacement powertrain. Popping the hood of this beauty will reveal a 3.2-liter V6 used in the early-2000s Mercedes SLK. One of the best-sounding V6 engines ever, in the humble opinion of this writer, but not exactly staggering power, with 218 horses out of the factory.
>>Join the conversation about the restomod Mercedes F-100 right here in the Ford Trucks Forum!
SLK Drivetrain
The German V6 replaces the 239 Ford Flathead V8 that the F-100 originally came with. In addition to the engine, the 5G-Tronic automatic transmission, SLK axles, brakes, power steering, and exhaust system have been brought over from the Mercedes.
>>Join the conversation about the restomod Mercedes F-100 right here in the Ford Trucks Forum!
Vintage Appearance
As is evident in the photos, the Mercedes-Benz elements are all hidden and tucked away. The appearance of the truck screams nothing but classic Ford. The interior still retains most of its original character, as well, with grey leather bench seats and body color dashboard. The gauges are modernized, though they maintain a vintage look and feel.
>>Join the conversation about the restomod Mercedes F-100 right here in the Ford Trucks Forum!
Beautiful and Practical
The bed features beautiful natural wood, accenting the truck's all-black exterior nicely. It is equipped with a motorcycle mount built into the floor, making the transportation of bikes an easy process.
>>Join the conversation about the restomod Mercedes F-100 right here in the Ford Trucks Forum!
Sold
The custom wheels round off the look, complementing the aesthetic of the F-100 1/2 ton pickup. The truck was listed recently by German classic and custom car dealer Car Special. The listing price was set at €79,800, which comes out to about $93,000 with current exchange rates. The German-powered Ford has since been sold.
>>Join the conversation about the restomod Mercedes F-100 right here in the Ford Trucks Forum!
For help with service of your truck, check out the how to section of Ford-Trucks.com
