What was the first Ford extended cab truck?
In the world of pickup trucks, Ford has long been a pioneer, introducing innovations that have shaped the industry. One of the most significant developments was the introduction of the extended cab design, which provided additional passenger space without sacrificing the utility of a traditional truck. This article explores the history and significance of the first Ford extended cab truck.
The Birth of the Extended Cab
The first Ford extended cab truck was the Ford F-150 SuperCab, introduced in 1973. This model was a game-changer in the pickup truck market, offering a unique blend of passenger comfort and cargo capability. The SuperCab featured a longer cab that allowed for rear seating, making it an attractive option for families and those needing extra space.
Features of the Ford F-150 SuperCab
The Ford F-150 SuperCab was designed with several key features that set it apart from its competitors:
- Increased Passenger Capacity: The SuperCab could comfortably seat up to six passengers, making it ideal for work and leisure.
- Versatile Cargo Space: Despite the added passenger space, the truck maintained a sizable bed for hauling cargo.
- Enhanced Comfort: The extended cab provided more legroom and headroom for rear passengers, improving overall comfort during long drives.
- Innovative Design: The design included rear-hinged doors that made accessing the back seats easier, a feature that was not common in trucks at the time.
These features contributed to the F-150 SuperCab's popularity, allowing it to cater to a broader audience than traditional trucks.
The Impact on the Truck Market
The introduction of the Ford F-150 SuperCab marked a significant shift in the pickup truck market. It paved the way for other manufacturers to develop their own extended cab models, leading to a new segment of trucks that prioritized passenger comfort alongside utility. This innovation has influenced truck design for decades, with many modern pickups now offering similar configurations.
Conclusion
The Ford F-150 SuperCab, introduced in 1973, was the first extended cab truck from Ford and set a new standard in the automotive industry. Its combination of passenger space and cargo capability has made it a beloved choice among truck enthusiasts and families alike. As we look back at this milestone, it's clear that the SuperCab has left a lasting legacy in the world of pickup trucks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is another name for the extended cab?
As one might expect, an Extended Cab (can also be called a Double Cab pickup) is basically a Regular Cab with extra room behind the front seats. When first introduced, extended cab pickups were sold as 2-door models and had small jump seats in the back.
What is the largest Ford cab size?
Ford Truck Cab Styles
- Standard Cab (aka regular cab): The Ford Standard Cab is the smallest option you can choose.
- SuperCab (aka extended cab): The SuperCab is larger than the Standard Cab.
- SuperCrew (aka crew cab): The SuperCrew Ford is the largest cab configuration offered by the automaker.
What is Ford's extended cab called?
The SuperCab is one of the most popular ways to set up a Ford F-series truck because of its two-row configuration and seating for six. A Ford SuperCab has four doors, but the rear doors are rear-hinged and require the front doors to be open to access the back seat.
What is the difference between F1 and F100?
Originally, the F-Series ½ ton pickup was known simply as the “F-1.” In 1953, to commemorate Ford's 50th anniversary, the name of the ½ ton F-Series pickup changed from "F1" to "F100" (so you can stop looking for those missing 99 pickups).
What was the first extended cab truck?
Dodge Club Cab
Two-Door Extended Cabs: 1973 Dodge Club Cab.
When did Ford start making extended cabs?
The first factory-built four-door crew cab appears in 1965 in F-250 trim and is sold as a special order.
