Nowadays, US drivers are mad about pickup trucks, but back in the day, you could often see something called coupe utility vehicles on the country's streets. Widely known as "utes," these vehicles originated in Australia in the 1930s and became popular due to the balanced mix of comfort and style they offered.
Despite being the first modern American coupe utility introduced to the American market, the Ford Ranchero remained in the shadow of GM's Chevrolet El Camino. However, this doesn't mean gems like this 1971 Ford Ranchero Country Squire can go unnoticed when they show up for auction. The El Camino might have been a better-looking proposition and got a lot more attention, but the Ranchero still had a lot to offer.
When the Ford Ranchero first entered the North American market in 1957, it confused people with its duality. Ford, a carmaker known for its specialty in trucks, took their expertise to new levels with the Ranchero, a design that combined the front end of a passenger car with the rear end of a pickup truck. It marked the creation of the "coupe utility" vehicle, the American counterpart to the Australian Ute, a body style that was hugely influential in the country and became ingrained in Australian culture.
Though this vehicle type never reached quite the same level of popularity as in Australia, the Ford Ranchero remained in production from 1957 until 1979, with over 500,000 units sold during the model's production run. Many people were attracted to the design because it offered the utility and versatility of a pickup truck, as well as the comfort and driving experience of a coupe. They could use it both for leisure rides and hauling cargo around the farm.
Photo: Mecum Auctions
The Squire trim was available on the fifth-generation Ranchero, which was built in 1970 and 1971. As its name suggests, it was based on the popular Country Square and was developed as a luxury car that could haul cargo. Actually, it was the most luxurious of the Rancheros, boasting wood paneling down the sides, giving it a distinctive look that reminisces of the woodie wagons of the 1940s, as well as deep pile wall-to-wall carpet, and woodbine panels under the instruments.
In terms of power, the Rancheros came equipped with one of three variants of Ford's V8 engine, including the 429ci Cobra Jet or Super Cobra Jet, and one variant of the I6 engine (250 cu), making them powerful enough to carry stuff around.
Today, the Ford Ranchero is one of those intriguing classic cars that are still piquing the interest of car collectors and enthusiasts due to their unusual design. Though it is overlooked these days for the Chevrolet El Camino, it is still a revolutionary car that dominated the automotive market for more than two decades.
The 1971 example pictured here is a fifth-generation Ranchero, and according to the Marti report, it's one of a kind - the only unit built in this specific configuration. It shares the same platform as the Ford Torino and the Mercury Montego, boasting a front end similar to the former from the A-pillar forwards. Just by looking at the pictures, you can notice this specific unit is a harmonious mix of muscle car and luxury car.
Photo: Mecum Auctions
Offered for sale in largely original condition, this unique gem boasts an exterior finished in dark green accented by the Country Squire-specific two-tone wood paneling down each side. The muscle car personality is highlighted by its Shaker hood, a black chin spoiler, an aggressive grille with integrated hidden headlights, and the Magnum 500 wheels shod in BF Goodrich white-letter radial tires.
The interior, on the other hand, showcases the luxury side. It is a haven of comfort and '70s style, with bucket seats and a center console with a floor-mounted shifter, all wrapped in luxurious-looking brown vinyl. Color-coordinated door cards and carpets create a sense of consistency in the cabin, and even the dashboard is brown. The car was also optioned with air conditioning and power windows.
Everything inside is original except for the wood-rimmed steering wheel, which is an aftermarket component. However, the car does come with the original steering wheel.
This 1971 Ford Ranchero comes alive thanks to a 351 cubic inch Cleveland V8 engine that sends power to the rear wheels via a C6 automatic transmission.
Photo: Mecum Auctions
Other distinctive features include power disc brakes fitted up front and a locking rear bed cover that adds practicality to the design. It was installed at the dealership when the car was sold new in California.
Set to go under the hammer with Mecum, this unique Ford Ranchero Country Squire is offered with 48,304 miles (77,737 km) on the odometer and no price estimate. With its non-traditional styling, luxurious interior, and unique configuration, this vehicle screams individuality and would make a great addition to any collector's stable.
After spending a few years as a copy editor, Ancuta decided to put down the eraser and pick up the writer's pencil. Her favorites subjects are unusual car designs, travel trailers and everything related to the great outdoors. Full profile
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