1983-1992 Ford Ranger: The beginning of Ford's compact pickup truck
The Ford Ranger's story in the US started with its debut for the 1983 model year where the compact pickup truck replaced the Mazda-built Courier in the Blue Oval lineup. Production would then continue for two model generations until ceasing following the 2011 model year.

1983 Ford Ranger
Production of the first-generation Ford Ranger began in 1982 as a 1983 model.
1983 Ford Ranger
A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine served as the Ranger's base engine with 73 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque.
1983 Ford Ranger
A slightly more powerful 2.3-liter four-cylinder was also offered with 79 horsepower and 124 pound-feet of torque.
1983 Ford Ranger
For 1983 and 1984, Ford offered a Mazda-sourced naturally aspirated diesel four-cylinder in the Ranger pumping out 59 horsepower and 90 pound-feet of torque.
1983 Ford Ranger
The range-topping engine for the Ranger at launch was a 2.8-liter V6 delivering 115 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of twist.
1984 Ford Ranger V6
For the 1985 model year, Ford upgraded the diesel engine sliding in a 2.3-liter turbocharged unit built by Mitsubishi making 86 horsepower and 134 pound-feet of torque.
1984 Ford Ranger V6
Diesel would cease offering a diesel engine option in the Ranger following the 1986 model year.
1985 Ford Ranger XLT
The 1986 model year saw a 2.9-liter V6 with 140 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque replace the 2.8-liter in the Ranger lineup.
1985 Ford Ranger STX
The Ranger underwent a major facelift for the 1989 model year with some frame improvements, exterior styling updates and a freshened interior.
1986 Ford Range Crew Cab
The optional automatic transmission was also upgraded for 1989 from a three-speed to a four-speed unit.