Underneath its stylish exterior, the Unibody retained the chassis and suspension components from the previous F-Series trucks. Its ladder frame construction made of steel provided the necessary strength and durability for heavy-duty hauling and towing.

The 1961 F100 Unibody was available with various engine options, typical of Ford trucks of that era. These engines included inline-six cylinders and V8s, with displacement options ranging from 223 cubic inches to 292 cubic inches. Depending on the buyer’s preference, these engines were mated to either a three-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic transmission. The F100 unibody offered here features the desirable 292 cubic inch V8 mated to the column-shifted automatic transmission.  Inside the cabin, the Unibody featured a straightforward and functional layout aimed at providing a comfortable driving experience.

Despite its novel design and effort to blend style with utility, the 1961 F100 Unibody pickup faced some challenges in the market. Traditional truck buyers, particularly those who needed the versatility of a longer bed, were hesitant to adopt this new design. As a result, Ford discontinued the Unibody after only two years of production.  Despite its brief production run, the 1961 Ford F100 Unibody pickup truck holds a special place in automotive history. It marked a significant departure from traditional truck design and paved the way for more car-like features in future truck models. Today, surviving examples of the 1961 F100 Unibody are cherished by collectors and enthusiasts for their unique design and historical significance in the evolution of pickup trucks.

The current caretaker of this 1961 Ford F100 Unibody for sale reports their rare pickup truck spent most of its life on the rust-free west coast.  Described by the seller as “a good straight truck,” the seller notes that most recently, he drove the truck three hundred miles round trip to a recent show without issue. In addition to featuring an eight-foot-long bed, the seller notes his F100 Unibody features its original 292 cubic inch V8 mated to a rare-for-the-period column-shifted three-speed automatic.

The seller notes his truck features a dealer-installed air conditioning system.  While still pressurized, the seller notes that it likely needs a fresh condenser in order to work properly. Other work completed during the seller’s ownership includes a front suspension refresh as well as new spring shackles. The seller notes these updates provide a vintage Ford F100 Unibody that drives straight and true down the road.

Even more appealing is the fact this 1961 Ford F100 Unibody features the desirable Custom Cab trim option that included the following upgrades:

• Twill Stripe vinyl upholstery with thicker foam cushions set off by a two-tone interior that matches the exterior paint choice.
• Chrome-trimmed instrument cluster
• White steering wheel with chrome horn ring
• Cigarette lighter
• Additional insulation
• Driver side door armrest
• Passenger side sun visor
• Bright metal grille and door-mounted “Custom Cab” chrome script

This a rare opportunity to purchase an unmodified 1961 Ford F100 unibody that features the desirable power train as well as the promise of dealer-installed air conditioning once repaired.