Introduction and historical background: The 1960 Edsel Ranger Four-Door Sedan stands as a unique artifact in American automotive history, marking both the culmination and closure of the Edsel brand. Introduced in 1958 by Ford as a bold mid-tier division intended to slot between Ford and Mercury, the Edsel was envisioned as a modern and distinctive alternative in a competitive postwar market. Unfortunately, a combination of economic downturns, marketing missteps, and radical design choices led to poor sales. By the time the 1960 models were introduced, the Edsel line was already on the brink of discontinuation. The Ranger served as the entry-level model, and in its final year, the sedan showcased a more conservative and refined styling direction in a last effort to appeal to the masses. Production of Edsels ceased in November 1959, making the 1960 Ranger Four-Door Sedan part of a very limited final run.
Design and styling: The 1960 Edsel Ranger abandoned the more controversial design cues of earlier models in favor of a sleeker, more restrained appearance. Gone was the horse collar grille that had polarized buyers. Instead, the Ranger featured a wide horizontal grille, modest rear fins, and cleaner lines overall. The sedan’s proportions followed the full-size layout of the Ford platform, with long overhangs and generous cabin space. The rear taillights bore a boomerang shape, adding a touch of futuristic flair, while the Edsel badge was subtly integrated into the trim. The interior continued the trend of simplification, offering improved visibility, comfort, and a more straightforward dash layout.
Engine and performance: Power for the 1960 Ranger Four-Door Sedan came from a standard 223 cubic-inch inline-six engine producing approximately 145 horsepower, mated to a column-shifted three-speed manual transmission. An optional 292 cubic-inch V8 with up to 185 horsepower was also available for those seeking greater performance. These engines delivered decent acceleration for the period, especially in highway driving. Though the Ranger wasn’t a muscle car, it was capable and well-suited to daily driving. Suspension was soft, prioritizing comfort, while steering and braking were consistent with full-size American sedans of the era.
Production and rarity: The 1960 model year was short-lived, with Edsel production ceasing less than two months after the new models debuted. Of the approximately 2,846 Edsel Rangers produced in 1960, a smaller portion were four-door sedans, making surviving examples relatively scarce today. Their limited production numbers and final-year status make them notable among collectors interested in unique and transitional American classics.
Legacy and collector appeal: Although the Edsel brand was a commercial failure, its historical importance has grown over time. The 1960 Ranger Four-Door Sedan represents the brand’s swan song and a glimpse into Ford’s ambitious—if flawed—experiment. Today, Edsels attract enthusiasts who appreciate their rarity, distinctive place in automotive history, and the story they tell about postwar American car culture. The 1960 models, especially the sedans, offer a fascinating blend of toned-down design and final-year collectibility, distinguishing them from their more extravagantly styled predecessors.
Summary
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Final production year of the Edsel brand
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Conservative styling compared to earlier Edsel models
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Optional 292ci V8 engine offered up to 185 hp
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Limited production: only 2,846 Rangers built in 1960
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Collectible for its rarity and historical significance
Disclaimer: This article provides general information based on historical records. Vehicle details and specifications may vary among individual examples.
Source: Ford Heritage Vault
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