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- How Much a Ford Truck Cost the Year You Were Born (cheapism.com)
From Humble Beginnings to Modern Marvel: Tracing the Price of the Ford F-Series Through the Years
The Ford truck, an American icon, has seen a remarkable evolution since its debut in 1917. Focusing specifically on the F-Series, which launched in 1948, the changes in design, features, and price are particularly striking.
This article examines the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of bestselling Ford trucks throughout the years, adjusted for inflation, offering a glimpse into how this automotive legend has evolved. Data was compiled from various sources including J.D.
Power, Hagerty, and Kelley Blue Book.
Early Years and the Rise of the F-Series
- 1950: The Ford F1 1/2 ton Pickup launched with an MSRP of $1,287 (approximately $17,398 in today’s dollars). 1950 was a banner year for the F-Series, with production exceeding 346,000 units.
- 1951: The F1 1/2 ton Pickup saw a slight price increase to $1,363 (about $17,047 adjusted for inflation).
- 1952: The F1 1/2 ton Pickup’s MSRP rose again to $1,459, equivalent to roughly $17,490 today.
- 1953: The second-generation F-Series arrived, with the F100 1/2 Ton Pickup debuting at $1,362 (around $16,266 adjusted).
This model featured a redesigned front end and is now a popular choice for hot rod enthusiasts.
- 1954: The F100 1/2 Ton Pickup’s MSRP climbed slightly to $1,389 (approximately $16,403 today).
- 1955: Another price increase brought the F100 1/2 Ton Pickup to $1,460, which is about $17,371 in current dollars.
- 1956: The third generation launched with the F100 1/2 Ton Pickup, boasting electric windshield wipers, a 12-volt electrical system, and V6 and V8 engine options.
The MSRP was $1,611 (around $19,096 adjusted). This year also marked the introduction of the iconic wraparound windshield.
- 1957: The F100 1/2 Ton Styleside debuted at $1,677 (approximately $19,302 today).
- 1958: The F100 1/2 Ton Styleside Shortbed entered the market with an MSRP of $1,874, equivalent to about $20,815 today.
- 1959: The F100 1/2 Ton Panel was introduced with a significant price jump to $2,230 (about $24,428 adjusted).
- 1960: The F100 1/2 Ton Styleside had an MSRP of $2,010 (roughly $21,792 adjusted).
This year saw a return to the straight windshield design.
Evolution and Innovation: 1961-1972
- 1961: The fourth-generation F-Series launched with the F100 1/2 Ton Styleside Shortbed, priced at $2,117.66 (approximately $20,502 adjusted). This model featured a lower, wider cab and a two-headlight design.
- 1962 – 1972: The F-Series continued to evolve, with models like the Unibody and the “bumpside” body style. Prices generally increased during this period, reflecting added features and design changes.
The Birth of an Icon: The F-150 and Beyond
- 1973: The sixth generation introduced integrated air conditioning and the first SuperCab F-Series.
- 1974: Continued refinements and features increased the price.
- 1975: The legendary F-150 1/2 Ton Styleside was born, with an MSRP of $4,002 (approximately $24,402 adjusted).
- 1976 – 1996: The F-150 solidified its position as a best-selling truck, with ongoing innovations and design updates.
Features like fuel injection and electronic engine controls became increasingly common.
Modern Era: 1997-2000
- 1997: The tenth generation focused on family-friendly features and car-like handling.
- 1998 – 2000: Prices continued to rise, reflecting the increased features, technology, and size of the F-150.
This journey through the pricing history of the Ford F-Series showcases not only the truck’s evolution but also the changing economic landscape and consumer preferences over the decades. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a modern marvel, the F-Series remains a testament to American ingenuity and the enduring appeal of a reliable and versatile truck.
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