Good page to Bookmark here:
https://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/index.shtml
Click on the Interior electronics section
And read some of the articles in Audio section
Read the Double DIN install article
1996 Ranger should be double DIN
1996 Ranger shows radio depth up to approx. 7.5"
DIN is an audio standard for height and width
Single DIN is 2-1/8" by 7-1/8"
You would need to get the specs of the unit you want to install
Most require an install kit specific to vehicle model, to mount it internally, hold it in place
And also a wiring interface specific to vehicle model
If you look at radio wiring diagram article you will see 1996 Ranger had two different stock radio systems, so you will need to know which one you have