1953 Ford F-1

Description

This 1953 Ford F-100 pickup doesn't break any new ground, but what it does offer is a classic look that's supremely well-executed and powered by reliable Chevy V8 power. Arguably the best-looking pickup of the 1950s, the F-100 makes a great-looking hot rod without altering a single panel, and if you crave attention, this truck delivers in a big way.

Bright red always works well on pickup trucks, but this one is so red that you need sunglasses to look directly at it. None of the old Ford's beautiful body lines was altered during the build, but everything was expertly restored and fitted, so the gaps are exacting and even the big hood fits evenly with the fenders. It's the kind of detail that you don't notice immediately but gives the whole truck a very high-quality look that stands up to scrutiny. Everything is red, too, including the running boards (which offer Ford step plates) and the grille. All the original chrome and stainless trim was left in place, including the grille highlights, beautiful Ford F-100 emblems on the sides of the hood, and even the taillights, which have their own unique shape. Simple chrome bumpers give it an old-fashioned look and as is the style with all restored pickups, the bed is lined with beautifully finished oak boards and stainless steel rub strips.

The Ford's utilitarian interior got a huge makeover, anchored by a set of late-model bucket seats that were cut down and wrapped in supple tan leather. Accentuated by red piping and supported by a custom center console, all pretext of working for a living has been wiped out, creating a luxury-oriented cockpit that's a pleasure to visit. A tilt steering column with a wood-rimmed banjo steering wheel makes it easy to get comfortable, and there's a full set of handsome VDO gauges in the dash. Note how beautifully fitted the headliner is, the custom door panels with integrated power window switches, and the neatly tailored tan carpets with matching floor mats, none of which was inexpensive. A/C was installed under the dash and is so cleanly done that it's almost invisible, leaving the expanse of red dashboard as your connection to the past. There's also an AM/FM radio, but we're guessing you won't use it simply because the engine's note through a set of side exhausts is so much better.

A familiar 350 cubic inch Chevy V8 lives under the hood, and with an estimated 330 horsepower on tap, it's a lot of fun to drive. The crate motor is dressed up with chrome valve covers and a matching air cleaner, and you'll note that extreme attention was paid to the underhood areas, so the inner fenders and firewall are beautifully finished. A 4-barrel carburetor on a high-rise intake makes plenty of power and a modern serpentine belt drive system for the accessories makes service easy. The big radiator is cooled by a massive electric fan and as I mentioned, the long-tube headers feed a custom exhaust system with tips just ahead of the rear wheels. A TH350 3-speed automatic transmission and Ford 9-inch rear end are reliable pieces of the puzzle and it sits exactly right on those chrome Torque Thrust wheels and fat Michelin radials.

Beautifully built, expertly finished, and nicely sorted, this is a truck that will attract a lot of attention and still put a big smile on the driver's face. Call today!