If you are a truck enthusiast, you’ll likely be able to rattle off several trucks on this list of the best classic trucks of all time. Whether you love trucks because of their impressive towing capacity, strong horsepower, or their versatility, you’ll find an option on this list to suit your needs.
Ford Model TT
- Year of Release: 1917
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 pounds
- Top Feature: America’s first mass-produced truck, known for its rugged build
It’s hard to imagine a time when a pickup truck sighting was a rarity. When Ford created the Model TT it revolutionized transportation. The Ford Model TT is America’s first mass-produced truck.
The first Ford Model TT had a hauling capacity of up to a ton. The classic truck’s features include a rugged build, simple aesthetic, and heavy-duty materials. The Model TT remains a coveted piece among collectors and classic truck enthusiasts.
But be warned: restoring the Ford Model TT is quite a project. You’ll find a few of these at classic car shows; some original Ford Model TTs (pre-restoration) have sold for around $15,000.
Dodge Power Wagon
- Year of Release: 1945
- Towing Capacity: 3,000 pounds
- Top Feature: Advanced four-wheel drive technology and military-grade durability.
The Dodge Power Wagon represents the transformation of military might into civilian utility. This classic truck started out serving the armed forces but quickly became a civilian favorite.
The Dodge Power Wagon offers advanced four-wheel drive technology and a rugged build. Its payload is 3,000 pounds, so it’s known for getting work done.
Another important feature of the Dodge Power Wagon was electronic locking differentials and an electronic disconnecting front sway bar. You can take this one off-road if needed. What stands out the most about the Dodge Power Wagon is its versatility and military-grade durability.
Datsun 620 Series
- Year of Release: 1972
- Towing Capacity: 1,441 pounds (GVW)
- Top Feature: Compact size with impressive reliability and fuel efficiency.
The first thing you’ll notice about the Datsun 620 is the compact size. When you think of new trucks, it’s common to adopt the mindset that bigger is better. However, the Datsun 620 series proved that small trucks had the benefit of fuel efficiency, durability, and reliability.
Truck enthusiasts found that maintenance for the Datsun 620 was quite simple. It has straightforward mechanics and accessible replacement parts.
It featured a modest four-cylinder engine that punched above its weight. Don’t let the size fool you, the Datsun had power.
Chevrolet C10
- Year of Release: 1960
- Towing Capacity: 6,000 pounds
- Top Feature: Blend of utility and luxury with a variety of engine options.
The Chevrolet C10 is known for bridging the gap between utility and luxury. Truck lovers are well aware that the trucks on the market today have unique features that continue to make headway in filling this gap.
The 1967-1972 C-series Chevrolet trucks could offer a luxurious ride while still being capable of handling any task you would expect from a pickup. The C10 has a clean and simple look with parking lights next to the grill, an egg crate design, and Fleetside of classic Stepside body styles.
Engine options range from the Turbo-Thrift straight-six to six formidable V8 engines.
Toyota Hilux
- Year of Release: 1968
- Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds
- Top Feature: Optional four-wheel drive system released in 1979.
Although the original Toyota Hilux came out in 1968, it was the 1979 truck, the third generation, that stood out. The 1979 Toyota Hilux featured an optional four-wheel drive system. This innovation borrowed technology from the larger, more rugged Land Cruiser.
The Toyota Hilux, with a gear-driven transfer case and a hearty live axle, could confidently navigate the toughest terrain.
Enthusiasts love the Hilux’s off-road prowess and fuel efficiency. Its smaller size did not compromise its performance; the towing capacity is still 3500 pounds; it just has better fuel economy and maneuverability. Many preferred it to the Toyota Tacoma.
Nissan Hardbody
- Year of Release: 1986
- Towing Capacity: 3,501 pounds
- Top Feature: Known for its compact dimensions and ride quality
The Nissan Hardbody is another truck that does a great job of balancing size and capability. Regarded for its compact dimensions, the Hardbody is also versatile, offering a selection of four—or six-cylinder engines to suit different needs.
The Nissan Hardbody had an impressive ride quality—quiet, balanced, and comfortable even on long journeys.
With a respectable towing capacity of 3,501 pounds, the Hardbody earned its place as a reliable companion for both off-road excursions and heavy-duty work. With some classic trucks having a price tag of less than $10,000, the cost for a well-kept Hardbody can reach around $20,000 today.
Jeep Gladiator (1963-1971)
- Year of Release: 1963
- Towing Capacity: 10,000 pounds
- Top Feature: Various engine options and independent front suspension for early models.
The Jeep Gladiator was equipped with robust engine options like the AMC 360 V8 and 401 V8. These pickups were built to haul with a towing capacity that could reach an impressive 10,000 pounds.
The truck came standard with rear-wheel drive and was complemented by a hefty all-wheel-drive system. Early models of the Jeep Gladiator even had independent front suspension.
The Gladiator wasn’t just a pickup truck; it was a vehicle that could be anything from a town cruiser to a workhorse.
GMC Sierra Classic
- Year of Release: 1988
- Towing Capacity: 10,000 pounds (with Max Trailering Package)
- Top Feature: Blend of style and function and robust towing capacity.
The GMC Sierra Classic is a blend of style and function. When it was designed, it was meant to look good for recreational drivers but also offer enough strength and power for professionals.
With the GMC Sierra, tasks like hauling boats or carrying job site equipment were made simple.
The Sierra Classic had a diverse array of engine options, including V8 and turbo-diesel variants. With the Max Trailering Package, you’ll find features like an automatic locking rear differential and heavy-duty springs to bolster its 10,000-pound towing capacity.
For those who needed a truck that could do it all without compromising on style, the Sierra Classic was the go-to choice.
Ford F-250 Highboy
- Year of Release: 1967
- Towing Capacity: 3,625 pounds
- Top Feature: Four-inch suspension lift for tackling rough terrain.
The Ford F-250 Highboy is where we find the start of the Ford F series, which continues today with models like the Ford F150. The F-250 Highboy has a notable four-inch suspension lift—a feature that defined the models from 1967 to 1977.
This lift ensured the Highboy could tackle rough terrain with ease. These models offered powerful engine options, like the 400 cubic inch displacement engine. The Highboy’s towing capacity was high at 3625 pounds.
The Ford F-250 Highboy set a high standard for full-size pickup trucks in the years to come.
Ford Lightning
- Year of Release: 1993
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds
- Top Feature: Performance-oriented with a 351 Windsor V8 engine, producing 240 horsepower.
The Ford Lightning tried to balance a pickup truck and a performance car. Thanks to an electronically limited 351 Windsor V8 engine, it has a top speed of 110 MPH and was built for those who need to get somewhere quickly.
With 240 horsepower and 340 pounds of torque, the Ford Lightning had plenty of power and speed. Additional features included tubular stainless steel headers and a high-rate fuel pump.
Only 11,563 first-generation Lightnings were built between 1993 and 1995, so owning one is important for classic truck enthusiasts. The Ford Lightning is still a highly sought-after model.
Dodge Shelby Dakota
- Year of Release: 1989
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 pounds
- Top Feature: Collaboration with Carroll Shelby, featuring a 5.2L V8 engine and unique styling.
The Dodge Shelby Dakota is a unique collaboration between Dodge and the legendary Carroll Shelby. This limited-production vehicle, produced exclusively in 1989, was Shelby’s first rear-wheel-drive vehicle in many years. In addition, it was the first pickup truck.
There were only 1,500 units built, so the Shelby Dakota is a collector’s dream.
The Shelby Dakota has some pickup boasting a 5.2 L V8 engine that could go from 0-60 mph in a mere 8.5 seconds. It was also stylish, featuring distinctive graphics, wheels, and a blacked-out trim that set it apart from other trucks.
The interior featured a Shelby steering wheel, seat inserts, floor mats, and a numbered dash plaque, adding to its exclusivity. Available only in red or white, this truck was a statement piece.
Lamborghini LM002
- Year of Release: 1986
- Towing Capacity: 8,000 pounds
- Top Feature: Luxurious yet powerful with a 5.2L V-12 engine and fine leather upholstery.
The Lamborghini LM002 is proof that trucks can be luxurious and powerful. It was created with military contracts in mind.
The LM002, or ‘Rambo Lambo’ as it was affectionately called, was a rare breed, with only 328 units produced between 1986 and 1993. Its 5.2-liter V-12 engine was enhanced by features like electric fans to boost output and manual locking 4×4 hubs to minimize mechanical resistance.
This powerhouse could tow up to 8,000 pounds. Let’s not forget this is a Lamborghini, so the interior offers signature luxury with fine leather upholstery and air conditioning.
Chevy 454 SS
- Year of Release: 1990
- Towing Capacity: 7,500 pounds
- Top Feature: High-performance 454 cubic inch V-8 engine, initially rated at 230 horsepower.
Not many pickup trucks can compete with a muscle car. But the Chevy 454 SS had a 454 cubic inch V-8 engine, initially rated at 230 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque, was up for the challenge. In 1991, Chevy went back to the drawing board and introduced a model with 255 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque, allowing the truck to reach 60 mph in less than eight seconds.
The original Chevy 454 SS was released exclusively in black with a blacked-out grille. Over the years, Chevrolet expanded the color palette to include Summit White and Victory Red.
GMC Syclone
- Year of Release: 1991
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 pounds
- Top Feature: Turbocharged 4.3-liter V6 engine, capable of 0-60 mph in under five seconds.
The GMC Syclone has a turbocharged 4.3-liter V6 engine and can go from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds. It is one of the fastest trucks known for its speed and performance. However, compared to other older models from Ford, Toyota, and Chevrolet, the GMC Syclone is not as functional from a utility standpoint.
If you want race car-type performance in the size of a truck, you’ll find it with the Syclone.
Summary
If one of these trucks caught your eye and you now own a piece of automotive history, it’s time to make sure you store it correctly. Whether you are a classic car buyer or a long-time collector, it’s important to know that older cars are prone to rust and rapid deterioration when stored outdoors. If you don’t have room in your garage, consider Neighbor, a peer-to-peer storage marketplace where you’ll find car storage options in all 50 states. The best part is that Neighbor storage is often 50% lower than traditional storage options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Most Sought-After Classic Truck?
The Ford F-100 from the 1950s and 1960s is one of the most sought-after classic trucks due to its iconic design and popularity since its initial release.
What Is the Best Classic Truck for a Daily Driver?
The Chevrolet C10 from the 1970s is often considered the best classic truck for daily driving. It’s a comfortable ride (and reliable) but also offers the performance of a full-size pickup.
What Is the Easiest Classic Truck to Restore?
The Ford F-100 is one of the easiest classic trucks to restore because of its simple mechanical design and the abundance of aftermarket parts available.
What Is the Most Reliable Truck to Own?
The Toyota Hilux is a classic pickup truck known for its exceptional reliability and durability. It may not be the largest option, but it’s worth purchasing.
