In case you missed it in the hype over the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this week, on January 16, the Ford F-1 pickup turned 65. On January 16, 1948 Ford first revealed the F-1 pickup to the public.
Little did anyone realize at the time that the F-series would become the biggest selling vehicle in Ford Motor Company’s history. According to Ford, the company has built more than 32 million F-series pickups.
First postwar product
The 1948 F-1 Pickup was Ford Motor Company's first post-WW II product to hit showrooms. Ford’s advertising touted the new F-1 as “master of a thousand and one light delivery jobs.”
Powered by a standard 95 hp Rouge 226 straight six engine, the F-1 boasted a 1,450 pound payload. An optional Rouge 239 V8 offered 100 hp. A 145 hp V8 was also available. The Rouge engines included four-ring pistons for reduced oil consumption and “Loadomatic” spark control for more power and more economy.
Other features included "Feather Foot” brakes for easy stopping. Removable brake drums offered shade-tree mechanics simplified maintenance.
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