By 1977, the custom van craze was in full swing, but many Americans still had painful memories of fuel shortages, long gas lines and spiking prices experienced during the 1973-’74 oil crisis. Seeing an opportunity to capitalize on both camps, Ford introduced its Pinto Cruising Wagon for the 1977 model year. Essentially a compact sedan delivery, the Pinto boasted such features as bubble rear windows, bold paint schemes and mag-style wheels, all obligatory on custom vans of the day. To keep things sensible, however, Ford equipped the Pinto Cruising Wagon with a frugal 2.3-liter four-banger, though a more enthusiastic 2.8-liter V-6 was a rarely ordered option. This 1977 Ford Pinto Cruising Wagon, for sale on Hemmings.com, goes the aftermarket route, sporting a 302-cu.in. V-8 beneath its hood to up the entertainment value. The current owner is clear that the car isn’t in show condition, although it sounds as if little is needed to make it an unusual weekend driver. From the seller’s description:
1977 Ford Pinto Cruising Wagon, Rare first year of the Pinto Cruising Wagon. New Custom Paint! California Car, no rust. Has a 302 V8, Auto Trans, duel exhaust, look like the rear end was upgraded, very fast little car, get much attention. The interior needs work, a refresh. The speedo is not correct and doesn’t read the correct MPH when driving. No stereo, One thing cool is it has a trailer hitch receiver behind the license plate. Runs good, Holly 2BB could use a rebuild. very low to the ground. 14″ tires and wheels.
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