When was the first Ford F100 made?
The first Ford F-100 was introduced for the 1953 model year, with production beginning in 1952. It marked Ford’s shift to a standardized light-duty pickup naming within the F-Series family, laying the groundwork for one of the most enduring lines in American trucks.
Background: Ford's F-Series Evolution
Ford launched the F-Series to replace the prewar pickup lineup, introducing the F-1, F-2 and F-3 in 1948. These early models established the basic light- to medium-duty pickup concept that would evolve over the next decade. In the early 1950s, Ford redesigned the lineup, adopting the F-Series nameplate for a new generation of trucks and eventually giving the light-duty member the F-100 designation.
The F-100 Comes to Life
For the 1953 model year, Ford introduced the F-100 as the light-duty option in a redesigned F-Series lineup. This marked the first widespread use of the F-100 name, replacing the earlier F-1 designation in the light-duty segment. Production for these 1953 trucks began in 1952, aligning manufacturing with the new model-year schedule.
Key milestones that illustrate the F-100's introduction and its place in Ford's lineup:
- 1948: Ford launches the F-Series pickup line, including the F-1, F-2 and F-3 models.
- 1953 model year: The light-duty model is renamed the F-100 as part of a redesigned F-Series lineup.
- Production for the 1953 F-Series began in 1952 to meet the new model-year schedule.
These milestones show how Ford rebranded its postwar pickups and set a naming convention that would endure for decades, helping define the modern half-ton truck segment.
Impact and Legacy
The F-100 designation would become synonymous with Ford's best-selling light-duty pickups, influencing design and marketing for years to come. The move into a standardized naming scheme helped customers distinguish between light- and heavy-duty models and contributed to the F-Series' long-running success.
Summary
How much is a 1970 F-100 worth today?
The value of a 1970 Ford F-100 varies widely, from approximately $15,000 to over $27,000 for models in average to good condition, though exceptional examples can fetch prices up to $277,500 or even higher if heavily modified. Factors like the model (Sport Custom vs. Custom), engine, condition, mileage, and any modifications or special features significantly impact the final price.
Factors that influence value
- Condition: A truck's overall condition is a primary factor. Excellent, well-maintained trucks in original or professionally restored condition will be worth more than those with rust, damage, or poor past repairs.
- Trim and Engine: The specific trim level, such as the Sport Custom, and the engine it's equipped with (e.g., 6-cylinder vs. V8 options like the 302 or 360 cid) all affect value.
- Modifications: Significant modifications, especially those done well with high-quality parts, can increase value. Conversely, poorly executed modifications or changes that detract from the truck's originality will decrease its value.
- Mileage: Lower mileage typically commands a higher price. However, in the classic car market, sometimes a low-mileage vehicle with an unknown history or title issues can be less valuable than one with higher mileage but a solid background.
- Documentation and History: A truck with a clear history, clean title, and maintenance records will be worth more than one with a questionable past.
Examples of recent sales
- Low: $15,382$ 15 comma 382$15,382 for a 1970 Ford F-100 Sport Custom in good condition with some original parts but requiring maintenance.
- Average: Approximately $24,263$ 24 comma 263$24,263 for a 1970 Ford F-100 Sport Custom in good condition with average specifications.
- High (modified): $28,000$ 28 comma 000$28,000 for a custom F-100, and a heavily modified 1970 F-100 sold for $135,000$ 135 comma 000$135,000.
- Very high (rare/exceptional): $277,500$ 277 comma 500$277,500 for a rare, well-maintained example.
Where to find your truck's value
- Online Valuation Tools: Services like Hagerty can provide estimated values based on the truck's condition and features.
- Recent Sales Data: Classic.com and auction sites offer recent sold prices that can help you gauge the market.
- Professional Appraisal: For the most accurate valuation, consider getting a professional appraisal, especially if the truck is in excellent condition or heavily modified.
What year is the F-100 the most desirable?
The best year for an F-100 is subjective and depends on your priorities, but the 1956 F-100 is often considered the most desirable due to its unique wrap-around windshield and redesigned dash. For a slightly different classic look, the 1953-1955 models are also highly sought after, with 1953 marking the first year the truck was designated the "F-100". Other popular choices include the 1967 (first year of a new body style) and the 1973-1979 generations, particularly models with special packages like the Freewheeling package from the late 1970s.
This video discusses the features and desirability of the 1979 Ford F-100: 58sHagertyYouTube · May 6, 2015
Popular years and their features
- 1956: Often cited as the top choice, featuring a wrap-around windshield, a redesigned dash, and a unique grille with inset headlights.
- 1953-1955: The second generation of the F-Series, with 1953 being the first to use the F-100 designation. These years offer a classic, nostalgic look and are very popular with collectors.
- 1967: The first year of a new body style, it is favored by some for its new styling and sturdier frame.
- 1973-1979: The sixth generation is also very desirable, particularly the 1977-1979 models which came with iconic "Freewheeling" packages, featuring unique striping and interior trim.
- 1972: This is another year in the 70s that is popular among collectors.
Factors to consider
- Collectibility: The 1956 and 1973-1979 models are often the most sought-after.
- Unique features: The 1956 model stands out with its wrap-around windshield, while the 1977-1979 models have unique and iconic special edition packages.
- Engine and parts: Earlier trucks like the 1953-1956 models are iconic, but later models like those from 1967-1972 have a wider variety of engine options and a more modern feel.
When did Ford start making the F-100?
The most popular version of the model line is the F-150 pickup truck, currently in its fourteenth generation (introduced for the 2021 model year). From 1953 to 1983, the entry-level F-Series pickup was the 1⁄2 ton F-100.
How much did a 1966 Ford F100 cost new?
A base model 1966 Ford F-100 started at around $1,950. With options like the Styleside bed, the price increased to about $2,085, and a basic truck with the Flareside bed cost approximately $2,069. Adding various options could significantly increase the price, with one example reaching over $3,250 when fully equipped, as noted on Curbside Classic.
- Base model: A basic F-100 started at approximately $1,950.
- Styleside model: The Styleside, with its integrated bed, was priced at about $2,085.
- Flareside model: The Flareside, with the fenders outside the bed, cost around $2,069.
- Fully-optioned model: With a V8 engine, automatic transmission, and other accessories, a fully-equipped model could cost over $3,250, as detailed on Curbside Classic.
