Speaking of the devil, this truck gets its grunt from a 2019 Ford Gen 3 Coyote 5.0L V-8. Since FFG specializes in these transplants, the team decided to further boost the capabilities of this wild animal with a 3.0L Whipple supercharger and G.T. 500 fuel injectors. This beast sings thanks to custom FFG headers with 1.75-inch primaries that flow to the 3-inch exhaust that exits the rear through turbine-style billet ports that are covered in Cerakote. Rotational force is then transferred via a Ford 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission, which can be shifted manually by use of an F-150 shifter mounted to the center console. Power is then sent through an Arizona Driveshaft custom driveline to the Currie 9-inch rear end with limited-slip differential. This lethal combo creates 750 hp, which is plenty enough power to break the 345-series rear Michelin tires loose, even in Fourth gear!

First impressions are everything, and Merlow does not disappoint here as the body was highly modified with modern touches that flow with the familiar lines of a mid-century pickup. To contain the massive tires required to keep this truck planted, the rear fenders were widened by 3.5 inches and custom mini-tubs were fabricated in the bed. Furthermore, the front fenders were modified to match the rears, and a GT-inspired front pan with honeycomb vents and chin spoiler was added to provide some contemporary flare. This was followed by custom running boards, reshaped tailgate, and a roll pan with diffusers to emphasize performance. Once in completed form, the body was finished in a custom BASF burgundy paint that elevates the transformation. The exterior is also complemented with a set of 20-inch satin black three-piece Avant Garde AG Luxury wheels with red ARP bolts for a splash of color.

This attention to detail flows throughout every inch, including the inside of the bed as it now features a Costa Rica Mahogany wood floor treated in a custom red-to-charcoal fade. Many FFG truck builds boast some of the finest bed floors and the craftsmanship here really puts a modern twist on the traditional wood beds. Inside the cab, the interior was designed to mimic offerings of modern-day luxury vehicles. It features 2018 Mustang GT power bucket seats, custom center console, dashpad, and many other panels that were wrapped in Apex leather with many Ferrari-inspired details.

With a truck that rivals the style and functions of a modern supercar, the cabin was upgraded with numerous details to match. This space also takes advantage of sound deadening material to keep road noises out and enhance soundwaves from the custom stereo controlled by a 10-inch Sony head unit. The creature comforts continue with a Restomod Air climate-control system with vents sourced from a late-model Audi for optimal form and function. This level of elegance resumes with the Dakota Digital gauges, Sparc steering wheel–equipped Flaming River column, and push-button ignition.

Altogether, Merlow represents more than just a collection of advanced parts and meticulous fabrication as it blends vintage iron in a contemporary package. Though it has styling cues found on the high-end sports cars of today, the soul of the past was not lost, and it is still present when you take a step back. Balancing between modern flavor and the striking lines of these old pickups is a delicate dance that the team at FFG specializes in and the work paid off on this unique ride.

Like all other builds from FFG, Merlow is not just an oversized paperweight. All the components were hand picked for their form and function in real-world usage. In fact, this truck underwent a rigorous 1,000-mile shakedown test to ensure that Jorge does not incur any major issues while enjoying this vehicular masterpiece. Noel even stated to us that he believes this is “the baddest ’56 Ford ever built” and we cannot disagree with that claim.