It’s really hard to say where the idea first originated of combining a passenger car with a pickup, but one thing was for sure, Ford had a winner on their hands with the 1957 introduction of the Ranchero. This “double-duty beauty” was effectively a two-door station wagon with the top lopped off and a one-piece floor for carrying everything from furniture to garden supplies in the back. “More Than A Car! More Than A Truck!” advertising blared.

Jeffrey Day’s Ranchero is the Custom model, which features Fairlane-style chrome “checkmark” side trim, additional chrome trim, a deluxe steering wheel, and an expanded choice of color options; here, the two-tone Starmist Blue and Colonial White is presented, which matches the color code “FE” found on the car’s trim tag. All the body panels are straight and have excellent paintwork, and all of the chrome is in good condition, with the exception of the rear bumper, which has been scratched and has lost some of its shine. The door and panel fit, as well as the finish of the undercarriage, is described as being of driver-quality. Under the hood, an engine “dress up kit,” chrome air cleaner, and polished aluminum valve covers are showcased, and everything is clean and accurately finished.

This Custom Ranchero is equipped with the three-speed transmission, power steering, power brakes, rear fender skirts, stainless front fender stone guards, and stainless rocker moldings, and it has recorded 79,689 miles, which is probably the actual mileage since new.

Everyone who has seen a first-year Ranchero has never forgotten it—it is a clean, classic, and attractive design that still looks spectacular. This is a very nice example.