Image of 1959 Ford Ranchero, sourced from www.vintagecarcollector.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the 1959 Ford Ranchero: The Pinnacle of Utility and Style

The 1959 Ford Ranchero stands as a testament to American ingenuity, blending the comfort of a passenger car with the utility of a pickup truck. Born from the creative minds at Ford, this vehicle emerged as a stylish solution for those seeking versatility without compromising on elegance. Its historical significance is rooted in the fact that it was part of the second generation of Rancheros, which featured a complete redesign from its predecessor, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of utility vehicles. A unique fact that car enthusiasts revel in is that the '59 Ranchero's design was so well-received that it inspired the creation of its rival, the Chevrolet El Camino, which debuted later that year.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1959 Ford Ranchero was a harmonious blend of sweeping lines and robust functionality. It boasted a sleek front grille that exuded confidence, while the finned rear fenders added a touch of space-age flair. Inside, the cabin offered a level of luxury uncommon in utility vehicles, with high-quality fabrics and an attention to detail that provided a comfortable ride. Technologically, it came equipped with features such as optional power steering and a push-button radio, which were considered advanced for the era. Color options ranged from understated to vibrant, with Colonial White and Indian Turquoise being among the popular choices. The most iconic body style was the Custom, which included additional trim and amenities that appealed to those looking for extra sophistication.

Historical Significance

The Ranchero's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It challenged the status quo by offering a vehicle that was as stylish as it was practical, breaking down barriers between work and leisure automobiles. Its unique position in the market set it apart from contemporaries and cemented its place in history as a precursor to the modern crossover and SUV.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1959 Ranchero came with several engine options, with the most powerful being a 352 cubic inch V8 that propelled it to impressive speeds for a utility vehicle. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was brisk for its time, and while top speed figures were not touted like sports cars, it held its own on the open road. The ride was smooth, absorbing bumps with ease, and handling windy conditions with a surprising grace for its size. Drivers could expect a visceral experience, with the rumble of the engine providing an acoustic backdrop to their journey.

Ownership Experience

The 1959 Ford Ranchero found its place in various roles, from being a reliable daily driver to a cherished show car. Its simple mechanical design made maintenance straightforward for the average owner, ensuring its reliability and ease of repair. Despite its age, many components are still available due to its shared underpinnings with other Ford models of the era.

Fun Facts

Among the intriguing trivia surrounding the '59 Ranchero are stories of rare editions and celebrity ownerships. While not known for setting speed records, it made its mark in sales and versatility. The vehicle also faced some criticism for its car-like handling characteristics when loaded, which some purists felt compromised its utility aspect.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1959 Ford Ranchero is a cherished collector's item. Estimates suggest that thousands were produced, but exact numbers are elusive. Values range significantly based on condition, with pristine examples fetching upwards of $30,000 or more at auction. The market has seen a steady appreciation for well-maintained or restored Rancheros, signaling a positive trend for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Conclusion

The 1959 Ford Ranchero remains an iconic piece of American automotive history. Its blend of style and utility set a precedent for future vehicle designs and continues to capture the hearts of classic car enthusiasts around the world. Whether you're behind the wheel or admiring from afar, the Ranchero is a timeless classic that continues to tell its unique story on roads and at shows across the nation.

1959 Ford Ranchero Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high-BN 12Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high., with 3/4" I.D. Each

1959 Ford Ranchero Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D-BN 19Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D. X 1-1/4" high, with 1/2" I.D. Each

1959 Ford Ranchero Front Stabilizer Bar Bushings. Four used per car-BN 32Front Stabilizer Bar Bushings. Four used per car. 1-3/4" long X 1-5/16" wide X 1-9/16" high, with 5/8" hole. Pair

1959 Ford Ranchero Front stabilizer bar to frame bushings-BN 32-FFront stabilizer bar to frame bushings, '59-'66 Ford and Mercury passenger car, station wagon and sedan delivery models, pair. Replaces OEM # B9A-5493-B.

1959 Ford Ranchero Door, Hood and Trunk Bumper Cap for adjustment bolt-HA 6Door, Hood and Trunk Bumper Cap for adjustment bolt. 1-1/16" O.D. X 1/2" I.D. X 7/16" thick. Each

1959 Ford Ranchero Hood Bumper. Each-HF 1Hood Bumper. Each

1959 Ford Ranchero Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each-HF 40Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each

1959 Ford Ranchero Antenna Pad. 1-1/4" wide X 3-5/8" long. Each-MP 780-DAntenna Pad. 1-1/4" wide X 3-5/8" long. Each

1959 Ford Ranchero Front Fender Lower Rear Plug and Door Vent Adjustment Plug-SB 58-AFront Fender Lower Rear Plug and Door Vent Adjustment Plug. Fits 1-5/16" hole. Each

1959 Ford Ranchero Rear roll-up Seal. Two 18" sections sliced into metal track-VS 4Rear roll-up Seal. Two 18" sections sliced into metal track. this foot with no steel insert. Pair

1959 Ford Ranchero Vertical Seals for Vent Window. Each piece is 17" long-VS 6Vertical Seals for Vent Window. Each piece is 17" long. Pair

1959 Ford Ranchero Vertical Seal for Vent Window. Sold by the foot.-VS 6/FTVertical Seal for Vent Window. Sold by the foot.

1959 Ford Ranchero Rigid division-bar channel-WC 28-96Rigid division-bar channel. Made with stainless steel bead, heavy steel core and pile lining. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1959 Ford Ranchero Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 7-96Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.