Quick, name the fifth-largest U.S. state by land area. You’re right, Alaska is the biggest, but New Mexico is the fifth biggest. It would have been easier to just say that this 1970 Dodge D-100 came from New Mexico, but since when do I do things the easy way? This one can be found listed here on Facebook Marketplace in St. Francis, Minnesota, and the seller is asking $12,900. Here is the original listing, and thanks to T.J. for the tip!
In case you haven’t looked it up yet: Alaska, Texas, California, Montana, and New Mexico are the five biggest states in land area. Even though New Mexico is so huge, it’s #36 in population out of the 50 states. This truck would fit in great in New Mexico, with its somewhat similar-colored landscape, and its simple but hard-working ethic. New Mexico is pragmatic, but still has a lot of fun attached to it. It’s useful, practical, and honest, just like this Dodge pickup. Ok, it can be a little rough around the edges, too, like this truck. You can see a few dings and dents here, maybe some rust here and there, but overall, like New Mexico, it’s solid.
Hagerty is at $16,000 for a #3 good-condition example with a 318 V8, and this truck may not quite be there, but the seller is asking $12,900, so it may be priced pretty fairly given the current values. Dave, how about that steering wheel?! This isn’t the factory steering wheel, so this must be one of the upgrades the seller mentions in their description. They also say it has all new brakes, and the entire fuel system is new or has been gone through from the tank to the carb. You can see the 4-speed manual in this lone interior photo, and the interior looks much nicer than I would have thought. Here’s a 1970 Dodge pickup brochure to check out.
This is Dodge’s 318-cu.in. OHV V8, which would have been rated at a healthy 210 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque for this era. Backed by the 4-speed manual sending power to the rear wheels, the seller says it’s remarkably solid, and it has new tires and “cop car wheels with red ring dog dish” covers. I’d paint the bumpers and mirrors, and just keep everything maintained and drive it. Any thoughts on this New Mexico Dodge?
Scotty.. I think I’m beginning to see a patern here with you, and this particular generation of Dodge trucks lately. I may be wrong…… But…… Then again…… For all I know I may be right. ( why is Billy Joel going through my head???)
Anyways. That Dodge Charger steering wheel, though not original, is at least something from the Mopar factory, and I kind of like it. In fact I like the whole truck. Maybe Scotty isn’t the only one around here liking these so much. It’s got some bumps and bruises but rust seems to be a non issue here. 318 is a true Bread and Butter engine from Chrysler corporation. Thanks Scotty and TJ for the find too.