The Ford Falcon Ranchero was part of the Ranchero line, which began in 1957 as a car-based pickup truck. In 1960, Ford introduced the compact Falcon and by 1960–1965, the Ranchero was based on the Falcon chassis, making it smaller, lighter, and more fuel-efficient than earlier models.
The first generation of the Falcon-based Ranchero: 1960 to 1963. These are some of the most charming little utility cars Ford ever made. The platform was based on the first-gen Ford Falcon compact sedan with 2-door coupe utility body style. Clean design, minimalist early ’60s styling with fins in 1960 and a more squared look by 1963. The Falcon Ranchero was assembled in the U.S. and a few international markets (like Argentina and Australia in varied forms).
Year-by-Year Breakdown:
1960:
- First year for the Falcon-based Ranchero.
- Slender body, slight tailfins, minimalist chrome.
- Standard engine: 144 CID inline-6 (90 hp).
- Optional 170 CID inline-6.
- Transmission: 3-speed manual or 2-speed Ford-O-Matic.
- Front End: Rounded, wide egg-crate grille with small round signal lights below.
- Fins: Modest tailfins sweeping out from the rear quarters.
- Badging: Minimal, “Falcon” script.
- Overall Vibe: Very late-‘50s hangover — more curves than later years.
1961:
- Minor trim updates, grille changes.
- 144 and 170 CID sixes continued.
- More dealers offering light-duty upgrades for work use.
- Grille: More horizontal bar-style, sleeker than ‘60.
- Trim: Slightly revised side moldings.
- Rear End: Still retains the small fins, but slightly toned down.
- Badge Update: Slightly more defined Falcon badging.
1962:
- Exterior: Updated grille and side trim.
- Slightly better interior materials.
- Still a workhorse but gaining popularity among young buyers and small business owners.
- Grille: Wider, more rectangular mesh look.
- Side Molding: Optional stainless trim running the length of the body.
- Fins Disappear: Rear quarter panels now smoother — more ‘60s, less ‘50s.
- Interior: Modestly upgraded materials.
1963:
- Last year before redesign.
- Sharper lines, flatter grille — more squared-off look.
- Some came with optional bucket seats (very rare).
- This year also offered a 260 CID V8 in some Falcons, but not factory-installed in Rancheros — though many were dealer- or owner-swapped later.
- Front: Flatter, squared-off face; full-width grille with a tight mesh look.
- Taillights: Rounder and set in a cleaner, finless rear.
- Body Lines: Crisper overall — hints at the ‘64 redesign.
- Trim Options: A few Rancheros got bucket seats from the Falcon Sprint. Super rare.
Specs (Base)
| Feature | Spec |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 109.5 in (2782 mm) |
| Curb Weight | ~2,500–2,700 lbs |
| Engines | 144 & 170 CID inline-6s |
| Horsepower | 90–101 hp |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual, 2-speed auto |
| Payload Capacity | ~800 lbs |
