What year did the Ford Custom come out?
The Ford Custom line first appeared in 1952. The name has been used in Ford's lineup at various times, sometimes as a standalone model and other times as a trim within broader ranges.
Origins and context
The year 1952 is widely cited as the moment Ford presented a dedicated mid-range line under the “Custom” banner in the United States, part of a postwar effort to differentiate price tiers within the full-size Ford lineup. This introduced a distinct identity between the base models and the higher-end offerings of the period.
What the year signified for Ford
In the early 1950s, Ford reorganized its model strategy to clarify market positioning after World War II. The introduction of the Ford Custom helped define a mid-tier option that could appeal to buyers seeking a blend of practicality and style, without stepping up to the more premium names in the range.
Variations across markets and eras
Beyond the 1952 launch, the use of the “Custom” name has varied by country and over time. Some markets used related designations such as Customline or Mainline alongside or instead of a standalone Custom model. The exact configuration and years can differ depending on regional catalogs and model-year updates.
Guidance for researchers and collectors
Because naming evolved, a precise dating often depends on the specific market and body style. When researching a particular car, consult period Ford catalogs, VIN documentation, and regional advertising to confirm the model designation and year.
Summary
The Ford Custom first emerged as a defined model line in 1952, marking the beginning of its use as a mid-range option in Ford’s postwar lineup. Over the years, the name has appeared in various forms across different markets, so exact dating can vary by region and era. For accurate identification, refer to country-specific catalogs and documentation for the desired vehicle.
What year did the Ford Transit Custom come out?
2012
Introduced in late 2012, Transit Custom was the first of Ford's expanded all-new Transit line-up to go on sale – later joined by the Transit Courier, Transit Connect and Transit models – and was a key driver in Ford becoming Europe's No. 1 commercial vehicle brand in 2015, a leading position it has held ever since.
What is the difference between a Ford Transit and a Ford Transit Custom?
The main difference is that the Ford Transit is a larger, full-size cargo van, while the Transit Custom is a smaller, mid-size van. The larger Transit is better for heavy loads and maximum cargo space, while the smaller Custom is more maneuverable, efficient for urban driving, and generally has a lower price point. The Transit Custom is not sold in North America, whereas the Transit is widely available in both continents.
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the interior features between the current and new Transit Custom: 57sForay Motor GroupYouTube · Jul 31, 2023
| Feature | Ford Transit (full-size) | Ford Transit Custom (mid-size) |
|---|---|---|
| Size & Maneuverability | Larger, designed for maximum cargo volume and heavier loads | Smaller, better for urban driving and easier to park |
| Cargo Capacity | Higher payload capacity and more cargo volume | Lower payload capacity, but still generous for its size |
| Primary Use | Long-distance hauling, heavy equipment, or specialized upfits | Urban deliveries, city-based work, or general-purpose use |
| Price | Higher initial purchase price | Lower initial purchase price |
| Availability | Sold in North America and globally | Not sold in North America (except Mexico), but sold in Europe and other markets |
| Engine Options | Varies, often with larger V6 engines or diesel options | Primarily uses smaller diesel engines |
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This video demonstrates the difference in external appearance between older and new Transit Custom models: 57sBridgend Van Centre (BVC)YouTube · May 21, 2024
How much is a 1950 Ford Custom worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $17,150 for a 1950 Ford Custom Deluxe in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1950 Ford Custom Deluxe? The highest selling price of a 1950 Ford Custom Deluxe at auction over the last three years was $84,700.
What are common problems with the Ford Custom?
Electrical problems can be a source of frustration for any vehicle owner and the Transit Custom is no exception. Reports have included troubles with the central locking system, malfunctioning dashboard displays, and various sensor issues.
