Ford F-150 Cars

Ford F-150: An American Icon That's Still a Contender

F-150s have had their place in the sun since 1948 along with apple pie and classic cars. The Ford automaker started out small offering half-ton, three-quarter ton, and heavy-duty cargo capacities and increased the truck's capabilities thereafter. The pickup's longevity may be one reason buyers continue to shop on eBay for vintage or newer F-150 pickups.

Ford made changes to the auto throughout decades of production to keep pace with what buyers want. The first F-150 trucks were available as panel and conventional trucks, school buses, and trucks with cab-overs. Later on, the company introduced four-wheel drive pickups, bigger engines, and roomier interiors. In addition to larger cabins, upgrades were made to the brakes and body without changing the F-150's notorious rugged look.

• The 1940's and 50's: Between 1948 and 1952, designers equipped the vehicles with one-piece windshields, made cosmetic changes to the grille, and upgraded the ignition system. Models in 1953 to 1956 look sleeker and interiors include armrests, a cigar lighter, and a ceiling light.
• The 1960's: Pickups produced in 1961 are a complete redesign with bigger engines subsequently upgraded to 150-208 hp in 1965. Trim levels changed in 1967 to base and custom with separate trims for the Ranger model.
• The 197'0s: Buyers could choose an automatic transmission or a four-door SuperCab with a choice of a bench seat or jump seats in the rear.
• The 1980's and Beyond: Designers made the pickup more aerodynamic by changing the angle of the hood, grille, and body. Passengers were given 10 percent more legroom, access to a fuse box, and a bigger glove box. By 1990, the F-150 was even more aerodynamic with angled bumpers and a streamlined hood. If you want to own a classic F-150, the 2000 Harley-Davidson edition has leather trim, chrome wheels, and ABS brakes. Succeeding generation models offer increased towing capacities, power-assisted steering, and adaptive cruise control to monitor how close you are to the vehicle ahead of you.

• When traveling off-road, you turn a dial to shift into four-wheel drive. You can use the 360-degree camera to maneuver in tight spaces when traveling on unfamiliar terrains.
• Models with a 10-speed automatic transmission have five modes to choose from whether you're towing, traveling in snow, cruising the highway, conserving fuel, or competing in a mud race.
• Depend on the Blind Spot Information System to alert you when you can't see a vehicle in your side mirror. The system also detects vehicles that pass behind you when you're backing up.

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