1977

The 1977 Ford F-100 arrived with the most noticeable styling update since the generation’s 1973 launch. A new grille design gave the truck a distinctly different face, and for the first time, rectangular headlights were available as an option in place of the traditional round units. The engine lineup was also rationalized, with the aging FE engines finally retired and the 351 Windsor V8 stepping in as a popular mid-range choice.

The rectangular headlight option was the most visible change and gave the 1977 F-100 a more modern appearance. Federal regulations had only recently permitted non-round sealed beam headlights, and Ford was quick to adopt the new format. Trucks equipped with the rectangular lights had a grille designed to accommodate them, while trucks with round headlights received a different grille insert. Both versions shared the same surround and overall front-end proportions. The rectangular headlight trucks are easy to identify and have become the more desirable configuration among collectors.

The powertrain lineup underwent its most significant change of the generation. The 360 and 390 FE engines were dropped from the F-100 catalog, ending an engine family that had served Ford trucks since 1958. In their place, the 351 Windsor V8 became available, producing 156 net horsepower. The 351W was a different engine from the 351M despite sharing the same displacement. The Windsor used a smaller, lighter block with a different bellhousing pattern, and it had a reputation for better throttle response and a more willing personality than the Modified engines. The 351M continued at 152 horsepower and the 400M at 173, while the 302 Windsor held at 134 and the 300 Six at 118. The 460 remained the top engine option, though output slipped to 205 horsepower as emissions tuning continued to take its toll.

Inside, the cab received updated trim options. The Ranger XLT benefited from new fabric choices and revised door panel trim. Air conditioning continued as a popular option, as did power steering and power brakes, which were becoming expected equipment rather than luxury add-ons. An AM/FM radio was available, and Ford offered an optional 8-track tape player for buyers who wanted music on the road.

The SuperCab maintained its 139-inch wheelbase and continued to gain market share as buyers discovered the practicality of the extended cab layout. Both the Styleside and Flareside beds remained available on regular cab trucks.

Production climbed to approximately 551,288 units, reflecting the F-Series’ growing dominance in the truck market. The F-150, which Ford had introduced in 1975 as an intermediate model between the F-100 and F-250, was also gaining traction and would eventually replace the F-100 entirely. But for 1977, the F-100 was still the core half-ton offering, and the combination of updated styling, the new 351W engine option, and the refined Dentside package made it a compelling truck.