1977-1979 Ford F-Series F-100 VI Regular Cab 5.8 351 V8 (163 Hp) Automatic

The Ford F-100, part of the broader F-Series lineup, occupied a crucial role in the American pickup truck market from 1953 to 1972, and then again with a revised iteration from 1973 to 1979. The sixth generation, produced from 1973 to 1979, represented a significant redesign, focusing on increased size, comfort, and capability. Within this generation, the F-100 with the 5.8-liter (351 cubic inch) V8 engine and automatic transmission – specifically produced from 1977 to 1979 – represented a popular, mid-range offering, balancing power with relative affordability. This configuration aimed to provide a capable work truck with a degree of convenience for buyers who preferred the ease of an automatic gearbox.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of this F-100 variant was the 5.8-liter (351 cubic inch) Ford Windsor V8 engine. This engine, designated as a small-block V8, was known for its durability and relatively simple design. The 1977-1979 versions typically employed a two-barrel carburetor for fuel delivery, a common setup for the time. The engine featured a cast iron block and cylinder heads, contributing to its robust nature. Valve actuation was managed by a traditional pushrod valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The 351 Windsor produced 163 horsepower and approximately 260 lb-ft of torque. This power was then channeled through Ford’s Cruise-O-Matic three-speed automatic transmission. The Cruise-O-Matic was a torque converter automatic, offering smooth, if not particularly quick, shifts. It was a reliable unit, but not known for its efficiency compared to later automatic designs.

Driving Characteristics

The F-100 with the 351 V8 and automatic transmission offered a comfortable, albeit not sporty, driving experience. The automatic transmission prioritized ease of use over outright performance. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and hauling moderate loads, but it lacked the responsiveness of the available manual transmission options or the higher-output 351 Windsor variants. The three-speed automatic’s gear ratios were geared towards torque multiplication, making it suitable for towing and hauling. However, this also meant higher engine speeds at highway cruising, potentially impacting fuel economy. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a traditional truck feel, with a noticeable rear-end weight bias. Steering was power-assisted, making maneuvering easier, but still retained a somewhat vague feel typical of trucks of this era.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The 1977-1979 F-100 offered a range of trim levels, with the 351 V8/automatic combination typically found in the mid-range offerings. Standard equipment included a basic vinyl bench seat, a simple dashboard with essential gauges (speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge), and a basic AM radio. Options included upgraded interior trim, air conditioning, power windows, and a more sophisticated stereo system. The exterior typically featured bright metal trim, though the amount varied depending on the specific package. The F-100 was available in a variety of colors, both solid and two-tone combinations. The bed was typically equipped with a basic bedliner, with options for a drop-in plastic liner or a spray-in liner.

Chassis & Braking

The F-100’s chassis was a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs with a transverse stabilizer bar, offering a reasonable ride quality for a truck. The rear suspension employed leaf springs, which were well-suited for carrying heavy loads. Braking was accomplished via disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. Power steering was standard, making the truck easier to maneuver, especially at low speeds. Tire sizes typically ranged from 215/75R15 to 225/75R15, providing a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity.

Market Reception & Comparison

The F-100 with the 351 V8 and automatic transmission was a popular choice for buyers who wanted a capable and comfortable pickup truck. Critics generally praised the engine’s durability and adequate power, but noted that the automatic transmission detracted somewhat from overall performance. Compared to the six-cylinder F-100, the 351 V8 offered a significant increase in power and towing capacity. Compared to the higher-output 351 Windsor variants, it offered a more affordable price point, albeit with less performance. Fuel economy was a concern, even for the time, with the 351 V8 consuming a considerable amount of gasoline. However, this was typical of trucks of this era.

Legacy

The 1977-1979 Ford F-100 with the 351 V8 and automatic transmission remains a popular classic truck today. The 351 Windsor engine is known for its reliability and relative ease of maintenance. Parts availability is generally good, making it a relatively affordable truck to keep on the road. While not the fastest or most fuel-efficient option, this configuration offers a good balance of power, comfort, and durability. These trucks are often sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, and well-maintained examples can command a premium price. The Cruise-O-Matic transmission, while not a performance unit, proved to be quite durable and is still functional in many surviving examples. The sixth-generation F-100, and this variant in particular, represents a significant piece of American automotive history, embodying the ruggedness and practicality that defined the pickup truck segment for decades.