Ever heard a pickup truck referred to as a “Cowboy Cadillac?” Haven’t seen one? Then feast your eyes on this 1956 Ford F-100 pickup recently for sale on eBay. It has a monstrous, 425 cubic inch V-8 from a 1977 Cadillac Eldorado - opens in new window or tab. under its custom, front-hinged hood.
item 1 of 15
FWD Transplant
New for 1977, the 425 V-8 produced 180 horsepower (in carbureted form) and 320 pound-feet of torque. Those are stout numbers for the Energy Crisis era - opens in new window or tab.. This engine has been modified with an Edelbrock carburetor - opens in new window or tab., “resulting in performance as robust as it is reliable,” the seller says. Cadillac’s three-speed Turbo-Hydramatic automatic transmission - opens in new window or tab. manages the V-8.
The engine and transmission weren’t the only parts donated by the Cadillac. The classic '56 F-100's cab and bed are now bolted to the Caddy’s front-wheel-drive chassis. That engineering feat gives the vintage pickup what the seller describes as “superior traction and handling” and ride quality that is “luxurious and steady.” None of those words would describe a stock F-100 in 1956. As beloved as they are now by collectors, in their day, they were working trucks that prioritized capability over comfort.
Classic Feel With a Plush Bed
Ford reportedly poured tens of millions of dollars into the design of its F-series trucks in the 1950s. The goal was to make this work truck’s controls as ergonomic as possible.
This '56 F-100 retains that classic feel inside the cab, but with modern features for driver convenience. A tilt steering column - opens in new window or tab. makes it easy for drivers of any size to climb behind the wheel. The speedometer now works with GPS for pinpoint accuracy. Auxiliary gauges under the dash - opens in new window or tab. keep tabs on the engine’s amperage, oil pressure, and water temperature.
The pickup’s bed is upgraded beyond its working-class roots. No wooden planks here; the bed floor is covered with carpet, and a tonneau cover protects it from the elements. The spare tire - opens in new window or tab. lives there now, too, within easy reach in case of a roadside emergency.
Highly Collectible
F100s from 1956 are considered the most collectible of Ford’s second-generation (1953-1956) F-series pickups. Design features unique to ’56 trucks include a new, wrap-around windshield. That change required other modifications, such as vertical windshield pillars and a longer roof.
The grille design was distinct for the year, with recessed headlights and restyled grille bars. This truck’s body is “all original,” and is equipped with a new chrome rear bumper. The '56 F-100’s bright orange paint, contrasting white grille, black tailgate lettering, and “turbine” wheels make it a stand-out anywhere it goes. And with 425 cubes of Caddy power, the F100 delivers a driving experience the seller calls “exhilarating and smooth.”
About the author
Share your feedback
This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.