Look Back At These Classic American Trucks

Over the years, pickup trucks quickly became some of the best-selling vehicles on the market. Apart from the towing capacity and high-performance engines, a pickup continuously offers a unique standard of driving. Its appeal is something that gravitates gear heads across the nation and evokes a sense of nostalgia in many Americans. For those reasons, let’s explore some of the best classic American trucks in automotive history, many of which have built the framework for popular pickups today.

Step back in time with these classic American trucks

Owning a pickup in 2022 is certainly not uncommon. Yet, having a classic American truck in your driveway is whole other experience. There are a number of collectors out there who have made it a life-long passion to restore these American beauties. From Ford to Dodge to Chevrolet, American pickups became the highlight of every automakers’ lineup and the object of car enthusiasts affection. When asking around the automotive community, these classic pickup trucks were the first to be mentioned.

Here’s our brief look back at some of the most iconic and classic American trucks of all time:

1956-1960 Ford F-100

We all know the Ford F-150 reigns superior among pickups. In fact, it’s continually the best-selling vehicle in America year after year. But did you know its predecessor, the F-100, laid the foundation for this groundbreaking model? Its production began in 1948 and immediately became one of the most iconic American pickups until its phase-out in 1984. The second generation is probably the most favored among collectors for its distinct timeless appearance and nose-heavy front end. In 2022, this model is commonly seen at car auctions and priced aggressively with online retailers.

1945-1968 Dodge Power Wagon

In recent years, Dodge has redefined truck luxury with the infamous Ram series. However, many decades ago, there was a pickup that set the standard for the rugged American pickup we’ve all grown to love. The Power Wagon, introduced in 1940s, was built on a six-cylinder engine with a unique high ground clearance and four-wheel-drive system. The Dodge Power Wagon could withstand varying terrains despite its limited horsepower. Overall, it’s a defining model that any collector would love to have in their garage.

Chevy El Camino SS 454

Before you claim the SS model as being one of the most iconic muscle cars in American history, remember there was a short time when the El Camino pickup truck came to fruition. While most would agree this was an odd pairing, there are several collectors who still scour car auctions and abandoned car lots in hopes of finding a 1972 El Camino SS 454. What’s more, the El Camino pickup offered a 7.4-liter big-block V8 which was pretty remarkable for a truck model in any given time.

1978-1979 Dodge Li’l Red Express

The Li’l Red Express was anything but little at its time of production. After emission regulations in the ’70s restricted the use of V8 engines, Dodge maneuvered a way around the current limitations placed on muscle cars. Enter: a high-performance pickup. The Dodge Li’l Red Express produced 225 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, which gave it more stamina than most supercars manufactured at the time. Nowadays, collectors can find a working condition 1978 or 1979 model for around $30,000. Sometimes even more if it’s been properly restored to its glory days.

Chevy AK Series Truck

As one of the oldest models on our list, it’s also exceptionally rare. The Chevrolet AK Series takes us back to a time when pickup trucks were first put into production. Introduced in 1941, the AK Series came equipped with two six-cylinder engines, three-speed manual transmission, and impressive towing capacity for its time. Although its production ceased by the following year (due to WW2), another generation was released by 1945. It’s not the most sought-after model, but its styling and rarity screams classic American truck.

Overview of these classic American trucks

While glancing back in time, these classic American trucks truly signify a moment in automotive history. It is to say though that car enthusiasts still get a kick out of seeing these makes and models around in 2022. Even though modern trucks are arguably the best of their class, there is something purely enticing about a restored pickup. Whether it’s the design or headlight detail, we can’t get enough of a classic American truck out on the road.

We hope you enjoyed our recap of the best classic American trucks and look forward to hearing your comments below!