Frame Off Restored Ranchero 272 V8 2 Speed Automatic

Here at RK Motors Charlotte we're fortunate enough to see a wide variety of exceptionally cool cars on a daily basis. That said; there's a first time for everything. And we always get really excited when we find a lust worthy classic that we've never had the pleasure of offering. In addition to being one of the most sought after cars of its era, this 1959 Ford is the first Ranchero we've ever featured. Since we've also never sold an El Camino, it's probably the first car-based truck that's ever graced our showroom. And, with its 272 cubic inch Y-Block V8, 2-speed Ford-O-Matic transmission and stunning Turquoise and White paint, it's one classic that's guaranteed to turn heads! So, without further ado, here's the old school ute many of you have been asking us for.

Driven a mere 400 miles since completion, and presenting much better than when it originally rolled down Kansas City's storied assembly lines, this impressive trucklet has been transformed into a take-no-prisoners weekender that consistently headlines cruise nights. You won't be staying under the radar with its professionally finished Indian Turquoise and Colonial White paintwork, which has been lovingly applied over a very clean body. There are no obvious signs of wholesale panel replacement, suggesting the car has been a straight, rust-free shell its entire life. Thanks to professional alignment, that shell's fit and finish is almost good enough to turn reflections into reality. And ultimately, everything adds up to one super cool cruiser that, thanks to its spectacular combination of color and trim, has an absolutely magnetic presence!

Not surprisingly, this exceptionally clean Ranchero's stylish body features a roster of cool and carefully maintained details. At the front of the car, a broad bumper hangs wide-set parking lamps beneath an exaggerated egg-crate grille and stainless-trimmed head lights that feature prominent brow lines. Between those lights, a crested hood leads the eye to wraparound glass that's reflected by twin mirrors, cleared with bright wipers and framed in thick trim. Below that trim, sculpted door handles and rocket-like side sweeps perfectly complement expressive “Ranchero” scripts and retro fender toppers. Above those sweeps, a 7-foot, reinforced cargo box features ample space to redefine the term “it hauls”. And behind that box, a cool Ranchero badge, which is shadowed by a small handle, rides between jet-inspired taillights, another broad bumper and classy chrome exhaust tips.

Hoist the car's massive hood and you'll find a 272 cubic inch Ford V8 that's been fully rebuilt and dressed to impress. Introduced in 1955, the stout Y-Block remained an option in blue oval staples well into the mid-'70s. At the top of the jet-black mill, a bright red air cleaner draws wind in to a big Holley carburetor that's juiced by fresh stainless fuel lines. Atomized octane passes through a stock intake manifold to cast iron heads that are topped by red, Ford-branded valve covers. At the front of those valve covers, a traditional fan and rebuilt generator spin in unison as a re-cored radiator keeps the block cool via pliable hoses and clean screw clamps. Spark comes courtesy of a traditional points distributor, which sequences fire between a red cap battery and 7mm High Temperature Static Suppression cables. From its glossy horn to its Satin Black firewall, this Ford's bay presents a clean, authentic appearance. And best of all, the 190 horsepower engine fires instantly and sounds surprisingly beefy breathing through cast iron exhaust manifolds and an OEM-style exhaust system.

At the bottom of this Ranchero, a fully sorted undercarriage houses straight, Satin Black floors that are bolted to lots of era-correct components. Nice enough to show but still fully drivable, this is the perfect compromise for enthusiasts who like to display their car AND enjoy fun-filled weekends. Behind the beefy powerplant, a stalwart Ford-O-Matic 2-speed spins torque to a familiar Ford 9-inch that's fitted with pleasant, 3.56 gears. The car's suspension remains close to its original configuration, with requisite power steering complementing factory control arms and traditional leaf springs. All of the chassis' parts are free of weathering, reinforcing the idea that this ute has seen only break-in miles since its complete overhaul. Braking is quick and adequate thanks to fresh drums that occupy all four corners of that chassis. And on the outside of those drums, freshly painted wheels spin 205/75R14 Coker Classic whitewalls around ornate stainless hubcaps.

2-tone paint is legendary for its characteristically '50s feel. And when paired with this Ford's airy interior, it creates the perfect culmination of style and sophistication. Thanks to attractive, thong-style plasti-fab weave, the car's big bench seat will be livable for years to come. There's tight carpet that, thanks to color-keyed mats, still features rich loops. Front and center, an Indian Turquoise dash hangs restored Ford telemetry next to a Ford-branded tape deck and locking glove box. At the sides of that dash, hip door panels center chrome handles and sculpted armrests between turquoise window frames and flashy, Ford-branded sills. And in front of the driver, a white-tinged steering wheel spins a stylized rim around a chrome, Ford-branded horn ring.

The sale of this old school crossover includes a vintage owner's manual.

This first class Ford is a nicely polished piece of jet-age magic that's ready to be shown and celebrated. With its sturdy 272/Ford-O-Matic drivetrain, streetability certainly won't be a problem, and the car's impressive interior is every bit as welcoming now as it was when new. If you're looking for a first-rate classic to add to your collection, call and claim this spectacular Ranchero!