Ford F-100
source: wikimedia
In the broadest sense of what makes a truck great, Ford’s classic F-100 is perhaps the most iconic of the last century. This light-duty improved over Ford’s original F-3 is what truly paved the way for America’s best-selling pickups today (the F-150, F-250, and F-350 series). Prior to the introduction of the F-100, Ford had already produced a successful lineup of light-, medium- and heavy-duty trucks under different alphanumeric monikers. Their original F-series trucks helped to father what modern trucks incorporate as standard style: squared-off fenders that integrated with the front fascia, predominant flat faced grilles, and flush-mounted headlights. It wasn’t until a redesign in 1953, however, that the legendary F-numeric series would take root as America’s best-selling pickup.
source: shutterstock
It was at this time that the F-1 was redesigned with more comfort features and renamed the F-100. An efficient, modernized overhead-valve replaced the aging flathead V8 and offered a 15% improvement in power while retaining the same 239 cubic inches of displacement. As the years progressed, Ford’s F-100 remained a popular truck that competed hotly with Chevy’s Advance Series. In 1957 Ford redesigned the body and gave the F-100 a straight-sided bed with a longer hood and straight-side fender wells, birthing what many argue to be the first truly modern pickup that can be directly compared to today’s new models.
In 1959 Ford kept the pressure on its competitors by introducing a factory 4×4 drivetrain and in 1965, Ford’s new and innovative twin I-beam front suspension used coil springs to add family-friendly comfort to a previously utility-only truck. Keeping every F-100 truck together was a best-in-class box frame with numerous cross members and reinforcing tubes, making it one of the strongest on the market. Ford’s F-100 frames are so popular they can still be found for sale commanding thousands of dollars in original condition. The F-100 featured so many continuous improvements and trim options that it quickly saturated the truck market, eventually spawning the unbeatable sales and popularity of the modern F-150. Its household name and status as one of America’s most popular trucks ever built, coupled with its well-known reliability, comfort, and capability make it a “duh” addition to our list of Toughest Trucks.
