Final Flareside: 1997 Ford Ranger XLT – SOLD!

October 25, 2021 Update – We confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

Long-time GuysWithRides.com followers know one thing we have been saying since the start: modern trucks are too damn big. We’re pleased to see at least Ford listened. As that company launches its new-for 2022 compact Maverick four-door pickup, we lament the company doesn’t plan to offer a modern-day version of the single cab, Flareside-bodied Ranger like this 1997 XLT model originally listed in October 2021 on Craigslist in Amherst, New Hampshire for $5,700.

Despite their continued popularity, none of our current pricing sources consider compact Ranger pickups classics yet, a quick check of the J.D. Power Nada Guides Online Valuation Tool reveals the seller’s asking price falls within this guide’s “Low, “Average”, and “High” retail value range of $2,034, $3,821, and $6,050, respectively.

For the 1983 model year, Ford introduced the Ranger for the United States and Canada. Replacing the Courier (a rebadged Mazda B1800), the Ranger was the first compact pickup truck designed by Ford. Using the same chassis architecture, three generations of the Ranger were produced across its 29-year production run. The model line underwent major redesigns for 1993 and 1998, a mid-cycle update in 1989, with smaller updates for 2001, 2004, and 2006. Just a nice basic little truck that, with four-cylinder power, provided a decent fuel economy.

We spotted this 1997 vintage Ford Ranger commercial that clearly tried to market this compact truck to first-time new car buyers:

We love the fact this southern-sourced Ranger’s body and interior do not show the wear and tear of most trucks with 165K miles traveled. That’s likely a hint the original owner used this truck mainly on the highway.  In addition to its desirable XLT interior trim we like this Ranger as it has a simple, single cab combined with the optional flare side bed and a manual transmission.  This combination makes it a great basis for a V8 build.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1997 Ford Ranger XLT with 4 cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, 2WD rear-wheel drive. Low mileage and excellent condition for its age.

Well maintained, clean and reliable truck that has been in the south for most of its years – so not a New England rust bucket. CarFax report shows no accidents or damages, it is the original mileage, averaging under 7000 miles a year driven, and I am the third of only 3 owners.

Has new shocks all around, anti-lock brakes, AC and Heater work great, AM FM CD stereo, airbags, alloy wheels, rear sliding window and low profile cap.

1997 was the last year for this generation of Ford Ranger. The Stepside bed was only an option, making this a nice collectible truck or unique daily driver.

Asking $5700 or best offer.
No low ball offers or trades please.“

Daily Driver or V8 Build: what would you do with this Ford Ranger Flareside?  Comment below and let us know!