Because of the lives they typically live, Pickups can look pretty tired and ratty as they get older. Sometimes an exception to that rule shows up, as this 1978 Dodge D100 demonstrates. It has led a sheltered life and has a genuine 61,000 miles on the clock. The seller says it runs and drives as well as it did in 1978, and whether on the streets or at a Cars & Coffee, the D100 is guaranteed to turn heads. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Zappenduster for spotting the Dodge listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Imperial, Missouri. You could drive this classic home for $19,750.
Released in 1972, Dodge’s Third Generation D-Series range enjoyed a long production life. The final vehicles left the line in 1993, but our featured D100 rolled off the showroom floor in 1978. The first owner selected a classy color combination of Bright Tan and Light Tan, teamed with the optional five-slot deep-dish chrome wheels. That gives this beauty the “wow” factor, and its condition seems to support the mileage claim. The paint shines beautifully, and the panels are laser-straight. Rust shouldn’t be an issue, since there are no obvious signs of problems, and the seller says the D100 has been garage-kept since Day One. The trim and glass look exceptional, and the narrow whitewalls provide the ideal finishing touch to an exterior that oozes class.
Interiors often accurately reflect the life a Pickup has led. If this D100’s interior is an indication, this baby is a cream puff that has never been abused or mistreated. The Tan vinyl trim is free from wear and other problems, and the carpet is excellent. The painted surfaces are crisp, as is the woodgrain trim. Life in a dry garage has minimized UV exposure, protecting the dashpad and plastic from harm. Life aboard this beauty should be pleasant, courtesy of the air conditioning, tilt wheel, and pushbutton radio.
The 318 was the entry-level D100 V8 in 1978, and this Pickup’s first owner chose it. It also features a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The 318 lost some of its performance edge in 1978, delivering a record-low 135hp and 235 ft/lbs of torque. However, because the motor’s torque peaked low in the rev range, it was still a respectable performer that could haul quite heavy loads. The low odometer reading and the fact that this Pickup has been meticulously maintained throughout its life are both positive points. Therefore, the seller’s claim that this beauty runs and drives exactly as it did in 1978 is readily believable. It is a turnkey proposition, allowing the buyer to fly in and drive it home.
Occasionally, a classic appears at Barn Finds that seems to rewrite the rules. A 1978 Dodge D100 Pickup would typically look tired and rough around the edges after forty-eight years of active service. However, our featured D100 has avoided that fate and looks superb. It emerged during the Malaise Era, so its V8 isn’t the most potent on the planet. That said, it should deliver respectable performance. Since I believe that the new owner will continue to treat it respectfully and not use it as a load carrier, this survivor doesn’t need anything more powerful. If you bought this classic, would it spend its life on weekend outings and trips to every Cars & Coffee you could find? I would understand if that’s the case.
Adam, you are right on the money describing this truck with the word Creampuff!!! Wow!!! This was obviously somebodys baby that was obviously garage kept since day one. Adam’s also right in saying this old Dodge has the “wow” factor as well. I keep going back and looking at the photos and the more I look at it, the more I want it. Thanks Adam!!! And also Zappenduster for finding this “Creampuff “.