The Ram 50 (or D-50) was a Japanese-built, badge-engineered compact pickup sold between 1979 and 1994. It was produced by Mitsubishi and imported through a long-standing partnership with Chrysler. Its rated payload capacity was 1,500 lbs., on par with the Ford Courier, Chevy LUV, and Toyota Hilux. At 81,000 miles, this 40-year-old truck looks like a survivor that hasn’t been beaten to pieces; thus, it could be a good daily driver. Located in Greeley, Colorado, this little import is available here on craigslist for $7,000. A thumbs up to Mike F. for another good tip!
First-generation D-50s were sold through 1986, including the seller’s truck. Most were sold with 2WD and inline-4 engines like this one, though a turbo diesel and 4WD could be had. Rectangular headlights replaced round peepers in 1983. Dodge’s interest in the truck ended when sales of its Dakota mid-size pickup came to fruition in the 1990s. Because of its Mitsubishi heritage, the D-50 was a decent little truck, though you seldom see one running around anymore.
We’re not told much about this 1986 Ram except that it runs well and is pretty much original. While the blue/grey paint is showing wear, we don’t see a bunch of dents or rusted panels, meaning it should be ready to serve some light-duty needs. It has a 4-speed manual transmission and a stark but functional interior with plastic and rubber everywhere. Are two of its four headligts burned out?
We assume this truck will be good on gasoline, an important selling point for a truck these days. Detroit moved away from compact trucks after 2010, selling mid-size pickups that aren’t that much smaller than their full-size cousins. If you need a good, small truck that should be reliable, would you give this Ram a chance?
Almost bought a very low miles one a few years ago, but the owner wanted a bajillion dollars (much like this seller) as if it was some holy grail collectible and not a disposal toy mini-truck. It could have ZERO miles, it’s still an errand running, ultra-light duty minimalist tiny pickup.