INTRODUCTION

The 1950 Ford F‑1 is a half-ton pickup from Ford’s first-generation F-Series, known as the “Bonus-Built” trucks (1948–1952). Praised for its rugged reliability, straightforward engineering, and timeless styling, this model embodies early post-war American pickups designed for practical work and everyday use 

HISTORY & ORIGINS

Building on Ford’s early truck legacy, the F-Series launched in 1948 to shift from car-based platforms to dedicated truck designs. The 1950 F‑1 marked a mid-cycle update, retaining its larger cab, one-piece windshield, and integrated hood/bumper styling. It was part of a series that sold over 234,000 units in 1950.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

• 226 ci (3.7 L) L-head inline‑6: 95 hp @ 3,300 rpm

• 239 ci (3.9 L) flathead V‑8: 100 hp @ 3,800 rpm, 6.8:1 compression 

• Transmission: 3-speed manual, column-shift (moved off floor) 

• Performance: Top speed approx. 60–65 mph, 0–60 mph ~20+ sec.

DESIGN & FEATURES

Exterior:
Distinctive “Bonus-Built” styling with integrated grille, hood, and bumpers; one-piece windshield; telescopic double-acting shocks; available chrome trims and optional tail light on right side 

Interior & Amenities:
Spacious two-door cab with improved headroom; optional radio, heater/defroster, oil filter, sun visor, and windshield washer; Ford advertised “Million Dollar Cab” for its comfort 

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

While not trims in modern terms, the F‑1 was available in multiple body styles:

• Pickup (standard bed)

• Panel van (based on same platform) 

Optional equipment included radio, heater, tail lights, and more.

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

Given its era, safety was basic:

• Steel body and cab structure

• Telescopic shocks for stability

• Optional heater and washer systems

• No seat belts, airbags, ABS, or advanced safety features

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

• Inline‑6: Approx. 14–16 mpg

• Flathead V‑8: Approx. 12–14 mpg
  Ford claimed cost efficiency (~2.5 ¢/mile) and up to 14% fuel savings over predecessor designs 

MARKET COMPARISON

Contemporaries included:

• Chevrolet Advance Design 3100 – similarly styled but with Chevy-specific features

• International KB Series – more rugged but less refined
  The F‑1 stood out due to its smooth flathead V‑8, cab comfort, and integrated styling—offering a more refined yet capable truck.

PRICING

• Original MSRP (1950): ~$1,285

• Typical Restoration Options (added features): radio ~$50, heater ~$50 

• Classic Market (2025):

  • Driver-grade: $17,000–$33,000

  • Fully restored: $35,000–$60,000+ depending on originality and condition 

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

• Celebrated as a cornerstone of Ford’s modern truck era

• Lauded for its cab comfort, integral styling, and rugged build

• Frequently named a classic icon in automotive heritage articles