Images: Hemmings

In the late 1950’s, GM and Ford introduced the world to the idea of car-based trucks. Though cars like the Ford Ranchero and Chevy El Camino found a niche in the American buying public, by the mid-80’s car/trucks disappeared from the market…at least in America. Down in Australia though, the “ute”, as its called, still has a fanatical following that dates back to the 1960’s. While GM has tinkered with the idea of bringing an Aussie Ute to America, the idea has been smacked down several times.

However, at least one Ford Ute has found its way to the Land of the Free. It is a 1974 Ford Falcon XB, and we found it in the Hemmings Classified section.

Still sporting its native right-hand drive setup, this ‘74 Falcon XB has power windows, power brakes, power steering, and even air conditioning…though it doesn’t currently work. But with a 302 (Cleveland!) V8 and a 4-speed manual transmission, you would have no problem ripping through the gears in this unrestored ute.

The asking price is a hefty $16,900, but the seller is right when he says that to buy and import a similar car from Australia would cost as much, if not more. And then there are taxes, title, registration, and import tariffs to deal with, all adding up to a hefty price tag. Or you could buy this one, and drive it away clear and free. Who wouldn’t want to rock an Aussie ute right here in America?