Tech & Auto
Classic Pickup Trucks That Budget-Friendly Buyers Can Still Snag Today
By JUSTIN OWEN
Courier
Wanting to capitalize on the growing popularity of small trucks in the U.S., Ford partnered with Mazda to import its small B-series truck under the Courier name.
These small trucks did well, leading to Ford developing its own and replacing it with the Ranger. Today, you can find a Couier for $3,000 to $6000, depending on condition.
Rampage
Built upon the Dodge Omni platform, the Rampage was marketed as a "sport truck." Unfortunately, the economical small truck with unique styling wasn't very popular.
Despite being unique, its value hasn't risen significantly. Rampageforsale.com lists like-new models for $4-6,000, with mint condition and low-mileage models priced at $10,000.
IH
Although International Harvester, or IH, is a farming equipment manufacturer, the brand produced light-duty trucks from 1907 through 1975.
IH trucks can still be found for sale. Ads on Auto Trader show that decent original condition trucks can be found for around $10,000, with lower prices for those that need work.
S10
Chevrolet replaced its Japanese import with the S10 in 1982. The small truck was an instant success and was a good seller until production ended in 2004.
Since many were produced during its run, older models are readily available. The values haven't risen much, so S10s can be found in various conditions for reasonable amounts.
Gladiator
In 1963, Jeep introduced an all-new truck called the Gladiator, bringing the brand up to date in styling and performance. Later the name was phased out for the J Series.
JeepTruck.com has listings for Jeeps and J-series trucks in usable condition for under $10,000, while like-new and restored condition trucks edge closer to double that amount.