1968 Ford Ranchero: The Best of Both Worlds
The 1968 Ford Ranchero represented a unique and enduring proposition in the American automotive landscape – a stylish, car-like pickup truck that blended the practicality of a utility vehicle with the comfort and performance of a passenger car. For 1968, the Ranchero received a significant redesign, aligning it with the newly introduced Ford Torino, a mid-size platform that offered a more substantial and sophisticated presence than its predecessor. This generation would prove to be one of the most popular and influential in the Ranchero's history.
Key Design and Styling Cues:
- Torino-Based Body: The most striking change for 1968 was the adoption of the Ford Torino's body. This gave the Ranchero a cleaner, more contemporary look with flowing lines, a longer hood, and a more pronounced grille. The front fascia featured a prominent horizontal grille with dual headlights set within separate bezels on either side.
- Coupe Utility Profile: Despite its Torino roots, the Ranchero retained its distinctive coupe utility profile. The passenger compartment was essentially a two-door hardtop coupe, seamlessly transitioning into an integrated pickup bed at the rear. This integration was smoother and more aesthetically pleasing than in previous generations.
- Long Hood, Short Deck: The classic muscle car proportion of a long hood and a short deck was a defining characteristic. This, combined with the relatively sleek greenhouse, gave the Ranchero a sporty and muscular appearance.
- Wheelbase: The Ranchero shared its 114-inch wheelbase with the Torino, contributing to its more planted and stable stance.
- Bed Capacity: The integrated bed, while not as capacious as a traditional full-size pickup, offered a respectable payload capacity and was well-suited for hauling smaller items, DIY projects, or weekend gear.
- Trim Levels: The Ranchero was available in various trim levels, with the base model offering a straightforward design, while higher trims like the GT added more sporty accents, upgraded interiors, and performance-oriented features.
Powertrain and Performance:
The 1968 Ranchero offered a diverse range of V8 engines, catering to buyers seeking efficiency, everyday drivability, or outright performance.
- Standard Engines: Typically, a 2V 289 cubic inch V8 served as the base engine, providing adequate power for most situations.
- Performance Options: For those craving more muscle, Ford offered larger displacement V8s, including:
- 302 cubic inch V8 (2V and 4V options): A popular choice offering a good balance of power and efficiency.
- 390 cubic inch V8 (2V and 4V options): A potent engine providing significant torque and acceleration.
- 428 cubic inch V8 (Cobra Jet and Super Cobra Jet variants): The ultimate performance option, particularly the Cobra Jet, which became legendary for its raw power and street-fighting capabilities. These engines often came with functional hood scoops and aggressive styling cues.
- Transmission Choices: Buyers could choose between a three-speed manual transmission, a four-speed manual transmission (often paired with performance engines), or Ford's reliable SelectShift Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission.
- Suspension and Handling: While benefiting from the Torino's chassis, the Ranchero still featured a leaf spring rear suspension characteristic of utility vehicles. However, Ford made efforts to tune the suspension for a more comfortable ride and improved handling compared to its rougher truck brethren. Front independent suspension contributed to a more car-like driving experience.
Interior and Features:
The interior of the 1968 Ranchero mirrored the Torino's passenger car appointments, offering a comfortable and well-equipped cabin.
- Seating: Typically equipped with a bench seat, the Ranchero could accommodate up to three occupants. Optional bucket seats were available on higher trim levels, further enhancing the sporty feel.
- Dashboard: The dashboard was driver-oriented, featuring a clear and legible instrument cluster. Options like a tachometer were available, especially on performance models.
- Comfort and Convenience: Features such as heater, defroster, AM radio, and bench or bucket seating were standard or optional. Air conditioning was also an available option for added comfort.
- Safety: Standard safety features included seat belts and hydraulic drum brakes, with front disc brakes becoming an increasingly popular option.
Market Position and Legacy:
The 1968 Ford Ranchero solidified its position as a unique and desirable vehicle. It appealed to a broad range of buyers:
- The Enthusiast: Muscle car aficionados appreciated the available powerful V8 engines, especially the Cobra Jet, and the ability to have a powerful vehicle that was also practical.
- The Practical Buyer: Those who needed the utility of a pickup but preferred the driving dynamics and comfort of a car found the Ranchero an ideal compromise.
- The Style-Conscious Consumer: The Torino-based styling gave the Ranchero a sophisticated and attractive look that set it apart from traditional trucks.
The 1968 Ford Ranchero, with its Torino-inspired styling, robust V8 engine options, and the unique blend of car and truck characteristics, stands as a significant and fondly remembered chapter in Ford's history. It offered a compelling package that appealed to a wide audience and remains a sought-after classic for its distinctive style and performance.