56-year-old, tuned Ford F-250 goes for $45k

Modern-era Ford F-250s are doubtlessly more versatile and capable than their ancestors from half a century ago, but many will agree that they don’t have quite the same charm. This is why the older trucks are still so popular in the USA, where they occasionally get tuned and fetch tidy sums at auctions.

This 1969 Ford F-250 4×4 is a prime example. It underwent a complete overhaul to feel like a modern vehicle while preserving the iconic looks. The owner had it resprayed in an aquatic shade of blue with white bumpers and 16-inch wheels for contrast. The differential covers were replaced, the suspension was overhauled and power steering was implemented for convenience.

Inside, the seat stuffing and vinyl trim is new, noise insulation is better throughout, and the floor mats are almost pristine for a 56-year-old pickup. A Bluetooth-capable radio plugged into some modern speakers should keep the driver awake and in good mood.

Power still comes from the original 5.9-liter V8 rated at 218 PS (215 hp / 160 kW) in its prime days. An Edelbrock carburetor, a new distributor, replacement ignition components and a modern aluminum radiator should ensure that it runs about as well as it did decades ago. A four-speed manual transmission carries the torque to all four wheels.

Despite its respectable age, someone actually handed over $45,000 for this F-250 on Bring-a-Trailer earlier this week.