The 1973 Ford F-100 has long been a favorite among truck enthusiasts, but this particular example elevates the classic “Dentside” platform to modern performance standards. Following the seller’s acquisition in 2019, the truck underwent a comprehensive custom build that replaced its original powertrain with a high-tech Ford Performance 5.0-liter Gen II Coyote V8. This modernization effort extends far beneath the skin, incorporating a fully overhauled chassis and a sophisticated six-speed automatic transmission. Offered with a clean New York title, this F-100 successfully blends the rugged aesthetic of a vintage workhorse with the reliability and output of a contemporary sport truck.
Wimbledon White Heritage with a Performance Stance
The exterior of this 1973 Ford F-100 maintains its timeless character, finished in a classic Wimbledon White that pays homage to its factory roots. During the extensive build process, the body was removed from the frame to allow for a meticulous refinishing of the underside, which included the application of LizardSkin coating to the cab for improved insulation and protection. Chrome-finished bumpers and a sliding rear window retain the period-correct look, while the 17-inch steel wheels provide a subtle hint at the mechanical upgrades hiding beneath. Though the paint presents well following its refresh, a small chip is noted in the windshield, a minor blemish on an otherwise exceptionally clean and purposeful exterior silhouette.
Vintage Comfort Enhanced by Modern Amenities
Inside the cabin, the F-100 offers a refreshed environment featuring a bench seat trimmed in tan cloth, designed to provide a comfortable long-distance cruising experience. Modern technology is seamlessly integrated through a Dakota Digital instrument cluster that replaces the factory gauges with a 160-mph speedometer and an 8k-rpm tachometer. For climate control, a Nostalgic AC Parts system has been installed, ensuring the cabin remains comfortable in all weather conditions. Entertainment is handled by a RetroSound digital stereo paired with a Technophonic amplifier and dual speakers, while a custom center console adds much-needed storage and utility. The result is a cockpit that feels authentically vintage while providing the conveniences expected of a modern daily driver.
Gen II Coyote V8 and Precision Chassis Engineering
The centerpiece of this build is the Ford Performance 5.0-liter Gen II Coyote crate V8, which was installed in 2020 and features an aluminum Ron Davis radiator for optimal thermal management. Power is sent through a 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission to a Currie Enterprises 9-inch limited-slip rear end equipped with 3.70:1 gearing. The chassis has been completely transformed with a Crown Victoria-sourced front suspension and an Outcast Autoworks four-link rear setup, all supported by adjustable Viking coilovers at every corner. Steering is handled by a Mustang-sourced electric rack-and-pinion system, while braking is upgraded via a Wilwood master cylinder and four-wheel disc brakes, providing a level of handling and stopping power that far exceeds the original 1973 specifications.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Ford Performance 5.0L Gen II Coyote V8 |
| Transmission | 6R80 Six-Speed Automatic |
| Rear End | Currie 9-inch with 3.70:1 Limited-Slip |
| Front Suspension | Crown Victoria IFS Swap |
| Rear Suspension | Outcast Autoworks Four-Link |
| Dampers | Viking Adjustable Coilovers |
| Braking | 4-Wheel Disc with Wilwood Master Cylinder |
| Fuel Tank | 20-Gallon Boyd Welding Aluminum Tank |
Market Position and the Modern Restomod Trend
In the current automotive landscape, “Coyote-swapped” trucks like this 1973 Ford F-100 represent the pinnacle of the classic pickup market. While original survivors are prized for their history, restomods appeal to a different segment that values the ability to drive a classic vehicle without the mechanical compromises of 50-year-old technology. This truck competes directly with high-end builds from specialized shops, offering a unique selling point through its combination of a crate engine and the highly desirable Crown Vic front-end conversion. Compared to a stock F-100, this build provides significantly better throttle response, highway manners, and safety, making it a premier choice for collectors who prioritize usability alongside aesthetic appeal.
A Seamless Fusion of Two Eras
The 1973 Ford F-100 restomod is more than just a classic truck with a modern engine; it is a meticulously engineered vehicle that respects its heritage while embracing the future. From the custom H-pipe exhaust note to the precision of the Dakota Digital gauges, every detail has been considered to create a cohesive driving machine. This build represents a significant investment in time and high-quality components, resulting in a pickup that is as capable on the open road as it is at a local car show. For the Ford enthusiast seeking the ultimate “Dentside” experience, this Coyote-powered F-100 stands at the summit of the segment.
Disclaimer: Content on this site is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Details, analyses, and opinions reflect current trends and personal views, not professional or financial advice. Always verify information with official sources before making any decisions.
Source: bringatrailer.com
