Rangers aren't that bad actually... two friends have one each and I've ridden both. One basic 2wd (perfect for pre-runner conversion, cheap start up cost). One extra cab V6 4wd (nice suicide doors for the extra cab, very trick).

The 2wd, while completely stock (owner isn't a car freak at all), is surprisingly off-road worthy. The drawback: cheap interior... but hey, it's a truck and it's Ford. I've yet to see a Ford with good interior. Fords I've driven or checked out: Lincoln Mk8 (sorry excuse of a $30K+ luxo cruiser), Explorer, Explorer Sportrac (aweful interior), Mustang convertable, Mustang GT, Lightning, and Escort.