What Is the Most Popular Old Truck?

The Ford F-Series—especially the late-1960s to late-1970s F-100 and early F-150—stands as the most popular “old truck” in the United States, backed by decades of sales leadership, broad surviving numbers, huge parts support, and steady collector demand; the 1967–1972 Chevrolet C10 is a close rival and often the hottest single classic at auctions. This article explains how popularity is measured, compares leading candidates, and offers practical buying pointers.

How Popularity Is Measured

“Most popular” can mean different things depending on whether you prioritize sheer historical sales, today’s collector interest, or ease of ownership. The following criteria are commonly used by industry analysts, auction houses, and insurers when assessing popularity among vintage pickups.

• Historical sales and production volume (how many were built and sold new)
• Surviving registrations on the road and in collections
• Classic-insurance activity and valuation trends (e.g., quote volumes and price indices)
• Auction and private-sale liquidity (how quickly and frequently examples sell)
• Parts availability and aftermarket support (ease of keeping one running or restoring)
• Cultural footprint (recognizability, media presence, club/enthusiast activity)

Taken together, these factors provide a balanced picture: trucks with both deep historical footprints and vibrant modern ecosystems tend to dominate “most popular” lists.

The Frontrunner: Ford F-Series (1967–1979)

By nearly every broad metric, the Ford F-Series leads. Ford’s pickup line has been America’s best-selling truck for decades, and its sixth- and seventh-generation models—commonly dubbed the “Bumpside” (1967–1972) and “Dentside” (1973–1979)—anchor the classic market. These trucks are plentiful, easy to live with, and supported by a massive parts network. The 1975 introduction of the F-150 (which overlapped with and eventually superseded the F-100) further expanded the pool of collectible, emissions-friendlier, and highway-capable examples.

Why the Vintage F-Series Leads

Enthusiasts cite a mix of practical and emotional reasons for the F-Series’ enduring appeal. The points below summarize the most frequently mentioned advantages.

• Availability: Millions built, with strong numbers still on the road and in barns
• Parts ecosystem: Extensive reproduction sheet metal, trim, interior, and drivetrain support
• Usability: Simple mechanicals, highway-friendly gearing on later models, easy V8 service
• Styling and variety: Iconic horizontal-crease bodywork across “Bumpside/Dentside,” wide bed/cab and 4×4 options
• Price spectrum: From driver-grade workhorses to high-end restorations and tasteful restomods

The breadth of supply and support keeps entry costs comparatively accessible while still allowing premium builds to flourish—hallmarks of a truly popular classic.

The Challenger: Chevrolet C10 (1967–1972)

If you ask auction watchers and restomod builders for a single nameplate that sizzles, the 1967–1972 Chevrolet C10 is it. The second-generation “Action Line” trucks combine clean design with car-like ride quality (thanks to coil-spring rears on many models). They’re frequent headliners at major auctions and enjoy a fervent aftermarket for suspension upgrades, LS swaps, and show-quality restorations.

Chevy C10 Strengths

The C10’s momentum in the collector market owes to its blend of aesthetics, drivability, and tuning potential. Here are the core traits fans emphasize.

• Design: Timeless lines, trim variants, and desirable short-bed configurations
• Ride and handling: Coil-spring setups make them comfortable cruisers
• Build potential: Extensive support for modern powertrains, brakes, and suspension
• Resale confidence: Strong sell-through rates and broad buyer demand

While availability is thinner than the F-Series in some regions, the C10’s desirability per truck is exceptionally high—especially for short-bed, factory V8, and well-executed restomod examples.

Other Beloved Old Trucks Worth Noting

Beyond the two headline acts, several classic pickups consistently attract interest, from Americana icons to bulletproof imports. The following models are standouts among collectors and daily classic drivers alike.

• 1953–1956 Ford F-100 (“Effie”): Rounded fenders, deep nostalgia appeal, huge aftermarket
• 1947–1955 Chevrolet 3100 (Advance-Design): Postwar style, abundant parts, show-scene favorite
• 1973–1987 Chevy/GMC C/K (“Squarebody”): Broad availability, easy swapping, rising values
• 1972–1993 Dodge D/W and early Ram: Straightforward mechanicals; Cummins-era trucks are cult heroes
• Late-1970s–1980s Toyota Pickup (Hilux): Legendary durability; 4x4s in particular command premiums

These models reinforce how “old truck” popularity spans different eras and tastes—from classic American V8 charm to compact, rugged imports prized for reliability.

Buying Advice for an Old Truck

Demand keeps prices firm, but smart shopping can still yield a satisfying and sensible purchase. Use the checklist below to steer your inspection and budgeting.

• Rust first: Inspect cab mounts, floor pans, inner fenders, rockers, bed seams, and frames
• Paperwork: Verify VINs, titles, engine swaps, and emissions compliance where applicable
• Mechanical basics: Compression, oil pressure, cooling, brakes, steering play, and electrics
• Original vs. modified: Restomods can be excellent—judge workmanship and parts quality
• Parts plan: Price key replacements (glass, trim, interior, weatherstripping) before you buy
• Test drive: Check highway manners (gearing, noise, vibration) and 4×4 engagement if equipped

A thorough pre-purchase evaluation prevents surprises and helps you compare true costs between an inexpensive project and a more expensive, sorted driver.

Bottom Line

Measured by decades of sales leadership, surviving numbers, and ownership ecosystem, the Ford F-Series—particularly the 1967–1979 F-100/F-150—earns the title of most popular old truck in the U.S. The 1967–1972 Chevrolet C10 is the strongest single-model challenger, often topping auction buzz and restomod wish lists. Your best choice depends on whether you value sheer availability and affordability (F-Series) or styling and modification culture (C10).

Summary

The Ford F-Series (late 1960s to late 1970s) is the most popular old truck overall, thanks to unmatched production heritage and support, while the 1967–1972 Chevrolet C10 frequently leads in collector heat and restomod demand. Both offer strong parts networks, robust resale, and proven drivability—making them perennial top picks for classic-truck enthusiasts.

What is the most popular truck of all time?

The Ford F-Series
Best selling truck of all time
The Ford F-Series is the most popular truck and best-selling truck in the US. It’s been that way for nearly half a century. In 2025, the Ford F-Series reaches an amazing 49-year streak as the most popular truck in America.

What is the old number one truck in the US?

The Ford F-Series® is the best-selling truck in America once again. 48 years and counting. * *Based on CY 1977-2024 total sales through Nov.

What is the #1 selling truck in the world?

The Ford F-Series is the world’s best-selling truck, holding the top spot for over 40 years and maintaining its position with impressive sales figures, such as 903,454 units in 2024. It stands out for its wide range of models and powertrains, including the popular F-150, F-250, and F-150 Lightning, offering options for diverse customer needs.
 
This video discusses the sales performance of the Ford F-Series: 56sSUV ZoneYouTube · Aug 27, 2025
Key Reasons for its Success

• Longevity and Dominance: The F-Series has been the best-selling pickup truck for over 40 years, with 2024 marking its 48th consecutive year as the best-selling vehicle in America. 
• Market Reach: While a favorite in North America, the F-Series has also established itself as a global favorite, according to Stivers Ford of Montgomery. 
• Diverse Powertrains: Ford offers a wide variety of powertrains, from traditional gas and diesel options to hybrid and all-electric models, catering to different customer preferences and lifestyles. 
• Iconic Status: The F-Series, particularly the F-150, is an iconic truck that is recognized and trusted worldwide. 

Top Competitors
While the Ford F-Series is the best-selling truck globally, other models are also very popular: 

• Chevrolet Silverado: Ranked second globally with 639,889 sales in 2024, according to Focus2Move.
• Toyota Hilux: The top-selling pickup truck outside of North America.
• Ram Pick-Up: Ranks fourth in global sales.

What is the most reliable old truck to buy?

Most reliable classic trucks

• 1992-1997 Ford F-Series pickup. Ford F-Series pickups have been the best-selling trucks in the country since 1977.
• 1963-1987 Jeep J-Series.
• 1981-1993 Dodge D/W Series.
• 1984-1989 Toyota pickup.
• 1967-72 Chevrolet C/K pickup.