Top American Truck Classics
In a world of autos, trucks have been heralded as a reliable tool for getting the job done. As an industry, there are lots of competitors fighting for market share and releasing new and exciting products annually. Some truck models are a flop with consumers, but sometimes they become instant classics to be forever cherished. This compilation will review some of the coolest truck classics to grace the streets.
The Beautiful Chevy Cameo
Chevy hit its stride with the Cameo back in 1955 when trucks were starting to feel more like cars. By no means was the Cameo a huge seller, but it did well in the market. It had a classic look that truck admirers have cherished for years. The Cameo was remodeled and updated until 1958 when the 'Task Force' collection for Chevrolet (which included the Cameo) received a complete overhaul. Production numbers were lower for the Cameo throughout the mid-1950’s and were priced out of most customers price range, making them an almost luxurious asset to acquire. With a reputation as one of the greatest pickup trucks of all time, the Cameo was an instant classic.
Coming up is how Chevy changed the truck interior game.
Chevrolet Cheyenne
During the period from the late 1960’s to the early 1970’s, the truck industry was making a call for trucks that in lack of a better term were less 'trucky.' Customers craved a heavy-duty vehicle that would function like a rugged truck but had the inside feel which closely resembled a typical car. As a result, the ‘71 and ‘72 Cheyenne models introduced a preferable trim, luxurious interior and a cab that was warmer and more comfortable. With all the changes made, however, the Cheyenne maintained its larger full-size truck, making it an iconic step for the trucking industry. Ford, like other companies, had to figure out how to work with emission restrictions back in the mid-70's, following was there solution.
The Innovative Ford F-150
As a model, the Ford F-Series has proved to be an industry icon since 1948 and has evolved, revived and innovated its way to the top of the market today. One classic model which has virtually withstood the test of time has been the F-150 model which was released in 1975 as a midway vehicle between the F-100 and F-250 models initially to skirt emissions requirements. With an impressive design and powerful capabilities, this classic can tow up to one-thousand kilograms and has engraved its spot in the top classics list as a result.
Up next is a classic adaptation of the F-150 model, thirty-six years later.
Fiesty Ford F-150 SVT Raptor
Speaking of Ford F-150’s, there have been a lot of modifications and adaptations since the original model back in 1975. Most notable as an extreme version of the Ford heavy-duty product is the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor. Although only seven years old now, this beast was possibly the most exceptional product yet, containing up to a 6.2-liter V8 engine which was a real gas guzzler. There were issues which arose early on in production concerning the chassis bending, however, once fixed, these beasts are reasonably well indestructible and a classic for off-road trucking.
Next up is a look at an oldy-but-goody Jeep.
The Unique Jeep Scrambler
Jeep came out with a badass outdoor vehicle back in 1981 which was deemed the Jeep CJ8 Scrambler. With an easily identifiable look, the craze over this iconic looking product was incredible. Structure and performance spoke loud enough to the company and was instantly heralded as a cool truck. A couple of options for engine performance were offered, including an 82hp four-cylinder and a 110hp six. Although less than thirty-thousand units were sold over the four year period, the hype will last a lifetime. Jeep now has a wide range of products which still possess an element of the Scrambler aesthetic.
Upcoming is possibly one of the most iconic trucks ever made.
Shiny Dodge Lil’ Red Express
Dodge is a strong trucking company which has had a few great vehicles in its past, one of which is the Dodge Lil’ Red Express. Now, this truck was cool! With a semi-truck modeled vertical exhaust and a lovely red color to match, drivers felt like a true pickup king. Unparalleled style matched with impeccable performance, two-hundred-twenty-five horsepower, makes this product the cherry on top for truck classics. Its aesthetic gave the appearance of a strong truck build, matched by the speed of an American muscle. Unfortunately, production only lasted a year for this chart-topper.
Following is a cool Dodge adaptation to the traditional truck structure.
Dodge Dakota Sport Convertible
Another excellent truck model to come from Dodge is the Dakota, which hit markets back in 1986. Dakota was such a success that it virtually snuffed out remaining compact truck models in the market. However, what put the Dakota over the top was the incredible convertible function that, although required to be converted manually, was revolutionary for modern truck enthusiasts. All incorporated into a handsome unit that was exclusively sold with a V6 engine and modern detailing horizontally across the cab. Such a vision for convertible trucks was revolutionary at the time, but today is less cherished in a standard design.
Up next on the docket is the oldest truck on the list, but do not let that fool you, it was a total game changer in its day.
1925 Ford Model-T Runabout With Pickup Body
When looking at the history of trucks and compiling a list of classics, one cannot forget the truck that changed the West. Ford produced the Model-T Runabout with a Pickup Body in 1925 which allowed merchants to transport small loads of product with ease. Aesthetic of the truck back in 1925 was less significant compared to function. The Model-t had a charming historical look to it. Although truck performance was terrible compared to today’s standards, and bed space was limited, the impact and technological advances inspired by this vehicle cannot be understated.
The following is a GMC product that faired well in the early nineties.
Jet Black GMC Syclone
Back in 1991, the GMC Syclone became a high-performance rendition of the Sonoma and quickly elevated to the fastest stock pickup truck in production. Equipped with a six-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive the vehicle had good performance for the truck market. Although the unit was only available for purchase in jet black, they were intended to be sold in a wide variety of colors for future years; however, the model was discontinued. Today some skeptics are not favorable of the Syclone model. However, the value of the vehicle on the market is debatably important.
Last but not least was the first commercial vehicle back to the market after WWII
"The Way Back" 1947 Chevrolet 3100
Post World War II, Chevrolet made a big statement in the truck industry by releasing the first commercial line of vehicles back into the market. As a summer vehicle, the 1947 Chevy 3100 became a staple to truck enthusiasts with an attractive design and a statement in auto history. After the war, truck dies required an update seeing as truck production had continued throughout the war, wearing down the average design. Since majority cars were discontinued, it made sense to remodel trucks first and restore car models after. This left companies with larger cabs that were more comfortable and a fresh new look.
