The Ranch Wagon was a full-size model, except in 1963 and 1964, when it was part of the intermediate-size Fairlane series, and represented the lowest-priced selection in its respective line.

The Ranch Wagon had either the standard "Mileage Maker" six-cylinder engine or the long-familiar flathead V8, which was optional.

After receiving mostly cosmetic changes for 1953, a second Ranch Wagon model, a slightly fancier version in the Customline series, was added for 1954, the year Ford's new Y-block V8 replaced the flathead unit.

[3] It was offered in the base and 500 trim levels, with the 500 also marketed as the "Custom Ranch Wagon".

In 1966, it was the beneficiary of Ford's innovative new dual-action Magic Doorgate, which could be opened either down or sideways.