The 1979 Ford F-150 Ranger represents the final and most refined year of the sixth-generation “dentside” pickups, a series renowned for its overbuilt chassis and classic American styling. This long-bed 4×4 carries a remarkable history, having remained with a single family in Oregon for over 45 years before being recently refreshed for modern use. Finished in the original Maroon Metallic, the truck serves as a perfect bridge between a hardworking farm vehicle and a capable weekend adventurer. With significant mechanical updates completed in 2026, it offers the unmistakable presence of a vintage Ford truck with the added reliability of contemporary cooling and climate control systems.
Maroon Metallic Paint and Rugged 4-Inch Stance
The exterior visual character of this 1979 Ford F-150 Ranger is defined by its commanding height and classic Maroon Metallic finish. To enhance its off-road presence, the truck has been fitted with a 4-inch Rough Country lift kit, allowing ample clearance for 35×12.50-inch Kelly Safari MT tires mounted on 15-inch Pro Comp alloy wheels. While the truck was repainted approximately 15 years ago, recent updates include a fresh grille insert, a new rear bumper, and crisp tailgate trim. Functional utility remains a priority, evidenced by the 8-foot long bed, a bedside toolbox, and a sliding rear window that provides excellent ventilation for the cabin.
Tan Vinyl Upholstery and Vintage Air Integration
Inside the cab, the environment has been thoughtfully refreshed with new tan vinyl upholstery featuring striped inserts, creating a warm and period-correct atmosphere. Significant comfort upgrades include the installation of a Vintage Air climate control system, providing modern air conditioning for all-season drivability. The interior also benefits from replacement carpets, door panels, and seatbelts, ensuring a clean and inviting space for passengers. A wood-rimmed steering wheel sits ahead of a refreshed dashboard that retains its original push-button AM radio, successfully blending the truck’s utilitarian roots with a touch of custom high-end refinement.
351ci V8 Power and Four-Speed Manual Engagement
Performance is driven by a 351-cubic inch V8 engine that has been optimized with an Edelbrock 600 CFM carburetor sitting atop an aluminum intake manifold. This powertrain was factory rated at 160 hp/162 PS and 262 lb-ft/355 Nm of torque, providing the low-end grunt necessary for heavy-duty 4×4 tasks. Shifting is handled by a robust four-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case, while a 3.50:1 limited-slip rear differential ensures maximum traction in slippery conditions. Recent 2026 service work has addressed the cooling and electrical systems, including a new radiator, alternator, and heater hoses to ensure long-term mechanical confidence.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 351ci V8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Manual |
| Suspension | 4-Inch Rough Country Lift |
| Wheels/Tires | 15-Inch Pro Comp Alloys / 35-Inch MT |
| Climate Control | Vintage Air A/C |
| Documentation | Deluxe Marti Report |
Dentside Collectability and Marti-Report Provenance
The market for late-seventies Ford pickups has seen a tremendous rise in value, with “dentside” F-series models becoming some of the most sought-after trucks in the collector world. This F-150 Ranger carries a high degree of transparency, verified by its Deluxe Marti Report which confirms its original build at the San Jose plant and subsequent delivery to Newport, Oregon. The rarity of a long-term, one-family history combined with tasteful modern upgrades like the 4-inch lift and A/C makes this truck a blue-chip asset for any Ford enthusiast. Offered at no reserve with 2026 service records, it represents a turnkey opportunity to own a legendary American 4×4 with documented Northwest roots.
The Ultimate Expression of Ford’s 4×4 Heritage
In summary, the 1979 Ford F-150 Ranger is a masterclass in period-correct preservation and functional upgrading, successfully merging 1970s brawn with 21st-century comfort. It successfully captures the adventurous spirit of the classic F-series while offering the enhanced capability of a lifted 4×4 drivetrain. From the unmistakable rumble of the 351 V8 to the iconic Maroon Metallic paint, every element has been built to celebrate the legacy of Ford’s toughest trucks. This long-bed Ranger is more than just a vintage pickup; it is a rolling piece of Oregon history, ready to tackle new trails while providing its next owner with a unique connection to a golden era of automotive engineering.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
