USA vs USA — 1948 vs 1953
| F-1 | F-100 Custom Cab | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 100 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 3,917 cc | 3,917 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 21.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 75 mph | — |
| ¼ Mile | 22.0 sec | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,876 mm | 4,915 mm |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1948 Ford F-1 brings its unique character to the table, and the 1953 Ford F-100 Custom Cab answers with its own distinct appeal. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Ford F-1. The 1948 and 1953 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1948 Ford F-1 producing 100 hp and the 1953 Ford F-100 Custom Cab delivering 110 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford F-1 uses a V8 Flathead displacing 3,917 cc, while the Ford F-100 relies on a V8 with 3,917 cc. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.