The surge in value of vintage trucks is evident. Classic Chevrolets and early Dodge Cummins pickups are now sought after by collectors, commanding higher prices than ever before. ’90s Fords are no exception, so what sets apart this 1994 F-250 with a manual transmission that recently sold for $32,000 on Bring a Trailer?
While $32,000 is a substantial sum, it falls short of being the priciest Old Body Style Ford ever auctioned. Notably, a low-mileage dump truck with the 7.3-liter Power Stroke engine from the same era fetched nearly $85,000 last year. However, the recent sale from Specialty Cars, Trucks, and Classics in Idaho showcased a different powerplant—it sported a 7.3-liter IDI.
This engine doesn’t enjoy the same acclaim in the truck community. Unlike the Power Stroke with its hydraulically actuated, electronically controlled unit injection (HEUI) system, the IDI features indirect injection and offers lower power output. While they share the same displacement, the 7.3-liter IDI is more akin to the 6.9-liter IDI that preceded it. Non-turbocharged 7.3-liter IDI models produced 185 horsepower and 358 lb-ft of torque, with turbocharged variants like this one generating 190 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque. In comparison, the Power Stroke introduced in MY1994.5 pickups boasted 215 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque.
Interestingly, 1994 Ford F-250s were offered with all three diesel engines, in addition to a couple of gasoline choices—the 351 cubic-inch engine and the renowned 460. While some examples powered by the latter V8 have fetched higher prices than this truck, there are no other IDIs that have commanded such a high sale price.
Every time I witness an old Ford being sold for a surprising sum—something that happens quite frequently—I reach out to Paul Rutledge. He serves as the co-owner of Complete Performance, the primary supplier of aftermarket parts for trucks like this one. According to him, “I believe that the way it is presented plays a crucial role.”
The paint job is quite unique, which greatly contributes as many of these vehicles were traditionally painted in solid colors like white or black. Despite the absence of stellar photos in the listing, there are a few images capturing the truck’s most flattering angles. It truly stands out when illuminated correctly.
Above everything else, finding the right buyer willing to pay the price, especially in such an auction, is crucial. Rutledge added, “It’s likely that an individual—probably the one who eventually purchased this truck—had a family member who owned a similar vehicle. They might have thought, ‘Oh, that reminds me of Grandpa’s truck. I must have it, regardless of the cost.’”
If any Ford powered by an IDI engine deserves such a high price at auction, it’s this one. It remains in excellent condition with approximately 102,000 miles on the odometer, which isn’t considered excessive—Rutledge mentioned that many of these IDI trucks have not been subjected to the same level of wear and tear as the Power Stroke models, as those were primarily purchased for heavy-duty work in the past. The single cab, long bed configuration is ideal, and it is equipped with a five-speed manual transmission along with four-wheel drive. The Medium Palomino Metallic paint is virtually flawless, and the images of the frame confirm its sturdy state—some minor surface rust is present, though nothing alarming. The main downside is the disclosure of two minor accidents in the CarFax report, indicating that some bodywork was performed on the passenger side at some point.
There has been online backlash regarding the sale, with some commentators suggesting that the purchaser “clearly lacked knowledge about the engines.” One individual remarked, “The person who acquired this vehicle made a grave error.” The situation is subjective, but in my opinion, the buyer was fully aware of what they were investing in.
Nevertheless, I don’t hold them accountable. It’s an attractive vehicle, and few would be concerned about its slightly less powerful engine. It fulfills the desire for a vintage 4×4 with a manual transmission and sleek finish, meeting most preferences a buyer could have.
If you have any tips or questions for the writer, you can reach out directly: caleb@thedrive.com
