The ute genre of automotive craftsmanship used to be very popular in Australia and South America not long ago, but went on decline with the advent of full-fledged, affordable pickup trucks. In the USA, however, restored utes as the Chevrolet El Camino or the Ford Ranchero are still sometimes encountered on the streets – and this Ranchero is perhaps the ultimate example.
The restomod is currently up for grabs for an eye-watering amount of U.S. $750,000. As one might expect, it has undergone a complete teardown, repainting and restoration, so you will be hard pressed to find a speck of rust or dirt on its venerable 56-year-old body. The exterior sports a ‘clean’ look with no tailgate or door handles, and flaunts a fashionable finish called AkzoNobel Sweet & Sour. The chrome-coated radiator grille and wheels also count as upgrades.
What is truly fascinating about this model year 1964 vehicle is its replacement powertrain. Jon Kaase fits the car with a purpose-built monster of an engine with eight cylinders, twin turbos, and 9.8 liters (598ci) of displacement room. The output is reported as 1,200 HP (1,217 PS / 895 kW), and a two-speed GM Powerglide transmission sends the momentum to the wheels. In essence, the specs make the truck a drag strip weapon, rather than a daily driver.
The $750,000 Ranchero made its appearance at the SEMA show three years ago, but failed to gain enough coverage back then; the exhibitors blamed their corner booth being located too far away from the expo’s main attractions. Still, judging by the asking price, they are very confident in their creation, hoping it finds a solvent car collector soon.