1968

The 1968 Ford F-100 built on the successful foundation of the 1967 redesign with a significantly expanded powertrain lineup and the introduction of the Ranger trim package, which would become one of the most recognized names in Ford truck history. While the exterior design remained largely unchanged from the first-year Bumpside, the mechanical and trim upgrades made the 1968 model a more versatile and appealing truck across a wider range of buyers.

The engine lineup saw the most significant changes. Ford added the 302 cubic-inch Windsor V8, a compact and efficient small-block producing 210 horsepower. The 302 was lighter than the FE-series V8s and delivered good fuel economy relative to its power output, making it an attractive choice for buyers who wanted V8 performance without the weight penalty of the larger engines. The 360 cubic-inch FE V8 joined the lineup at 215 horsepower, offering more torque than the 352 for towing and hauling. At the top of the range, the 390 cubic-inch FE V8 became available as an option, producing 265 horsepower and giving the F-100 genuine muscle when equipped. The 240 and 300 cubic-inch sixes carried over unchanged as the base and step-up engines, and the 352 FE remained available as well.

The Ranger trim package was the most notable addition to the options sheet. Positioned above the base Custom trim, the Ranger offered upgraded interior appointments including better seat upholstery, additional chrome exterior trim, a bright-finish grille, and special badging. The Ranger package transformed the F-100 from a work truck into something closer to a personal vehicle, and its popularity confirmed Ford’s read on the market: buyers increasingly wanted their trucks to look and feel more refined.

Exterior styling was virtually identical to 1967, with the same Bumpside body, grille design, and headlight arrangement. Minor updates included revised badging and new color options. The cab dimensions, dashboard layout, and fundamental interior design all carried forward unchanged. Both Styleside and Flareside bed options continued to be offered on the 117-inch short-bed and 131-inch long-bed wheelbases.

The transmission lineup remained consistent with the prior year. The 3-speed manual was standard, the 4-speed manual was available for heavy-duty use, and the C6 automatic continued as the preferred option for personal-use buyers. Factory air conditioning was available and growing in popularity, particularly in southern markets where it was becoming an expected feature rather than a luxury.

Production climbed to approximately 192,368 units, reflecting both the expanded engine lineup and the appeal of the new Ranger trim. The 1968 model year demonstrated that Ford’s Bumpside design had strong market legs and that the company’s strategy of offering a wider range of engines and trim levels was paying dividends in a truck market increasingly driven by personal-use buyers.