Spending tens of thousands of dollars on a 4×4 for off-road adventures may tempt some, but it could also represent wasted cash. New vehicle devaluation is one trauma they will inevitably face. At the same time, the scratches and dents that are an almost inevitable consequence of such activities can leave a sour taste in the mouths of many. If only there were a suitable compromise. There might be one with this 1990 Dodge Ramcharger. It is not perfect, but the buyer won’t pay a fortune for a classic that is a rock-solid turnkey classic. You could become its next owner courtesy of the seller’s decision to list it here on Craigslist in Lynnwood, Washington. It could be yours for a mere $9,000.

Dodge’s Second Generation Ramcharger enjoyed a long production life. The first examples landed on showroom floors in 1981, with the last finding homes in 1993. The original owner ordered our feature vehicle in 1990, choosing to cloak its panels in dazzling Bright White. It isn’t perfect, but the lack of significant defects makes me believe that the best word I can use to describe its condition is “honest.” There are minor chips and marks, and the graphics show typical age deterioration. The panels sport a few minor bumps and bruises, but this Ramcharger is still a presentable classic that would cause its new owner no shame. The best news for potential buyers is this Dodge’s lack of rust issues. The seller assures us there is no rust in any of its original steel, which is reassuring for those unwilling to tackle such repairs. The trim and tinted glass are in good order, while the larger wheels and tires should enhance its off-road capability.

Powering this Ramcharger is the range-topping 360ci V8. It feeds 190hp and 295 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Power steering will lighten the driver’s load in confined spaces, while power brakes should bring the Dodge to a safe and sure stop. The power and torque figures are modest by modern standards, but the low-end delivery provided by this V8 allows the Ramcharger to crawl into some pretty inaccessible locations. This is another aspect of this classic that supplies potential buyers with large helpings of positive news. The seller indicates the engine kicks into life easily and has plenty of power. They describe the overall mechanical condition as excellent, suggesting the new owner can hand over the cash and drive this Dodge off into the sunset.

This photo has confused me and raises the only question mark in my mind about this Ramcharger. I am trying to work out what the deal is with the bucket seats. They don’t match, and a low-back bucket typically has no place in any vehicle of this vintage. The seller doesn’t provide any information about when or why the passenger seat was changed, but it is one of the few significant flaws with the interior. The driver’s and rear seats are tidy, with no significant physical damage. The dash and pad are in good order, as is the rubber floor mat. It isn’t luxurious, but it is an easy-clean proposition when the almost inevitable mud finds its way inside this classic during off-road adventures. Luxury touches extend to air conditioning and an AM/FM radio.

This 1990 Dodge Ramcharger isn’t perfect, but that could be its greatest attribute. Delving into the wilds will almost certainly result in minor panel or paint damage, but that is less of a trauma with this classic than it would be with a new or pristine vehicle. It is affordable, and the seller’s price leaves scope for a minor cosmetic refresh without breaking the bank. It has only been on the market a short time, but could you be the person to give it a new home?