How much is a 1949 Power Wagon worth?
In today’s classic-truck market, a 1949 Dodge Power Wagon typically trades in a broad range from roughly $20,000 for a solid, driver-quality example to well over $100,000 for a concours-grade restoration. Most buyers see figures in the mid-tier, roughly $30,000 to $70,000, depending on condition and provenance.
Market snapshot
The Power Wagon line, introduced in the immediate postwar era, remains highly collectible due to its rugged utility and history as one of the earliest 4x4 pickups. The value depends on condition, originality, and how well the restoration was executed. Here’s a breakdown of what collectors and dealers look for now.
What affects value
Prices for a 1949 Power Wagon are influenced by several factors. Consider these when assessing a specific truck:
- Overall condition and mechanical readiness (engine, transmission, axles, 4x4 system).
- Originality vs. restoration quality and the use of period-correct or correct parts.
- Provenance and documentation (original build sheets, title history, restoration records).
- Body condition, rust, and frame integrity; visibility of bodywork and alignment.
- Popularity of specific configurations (cab style, bed length, grille, trim).
- Market visibility through auctions and reputable dealers; geographic location can affect pricing.
These factors collectively determine where a specific 1949 Power Wagon sits within the broader market spectrum.
Estimated value ranges by condition
Below are typical market ladders observed in recent years, reflecting the range from project cars to show-quality examples. Prices vary with market conditions and the specifics of each truck.
- Project/ Parts car: roughly $10,000–$20,000, often needing significant work.
- Runner/Driver in fair to good condition: about $25,000–$40,000, capable of road use with some maintenance.
- Nice, solid driver or restorable body with good mechanics: $40,000–$60,000.
- Excellent, well-restored, or highly original with documentation: $60,000–$90,000.
- Concours-quality or rare, numbers-matching, fully correct restoration: $90,000–$120,000+; exceptional examples can exceed this.
Keep in mind that the upper end typically requires meticulous provenance, a full, documented restoration, and correct, era-appropriate components.
What to do if you’re evaluating a Power Wagon today
If you’re considering purchasing a 1949 Power Wagon, have a professional inspection focused on the 4x4 drive system, frame, and rust; verify engine numbers against the build sheet if possible; and check for period-correct interior and exterior finishes. Get a restoration history report if available and compare against current listings in Hagerty’s price guide and recent auctions on Bring a Trailer or Mecum.
Summary
The 1949 Dodge Power Wagon remains one of the most sought-after vintage 4x4 pickups, with price levels reflecting condition, originality, and restoration quality. Buyers should expect a broad market spread—from affordable, runner-quality examples to high-end, show-worthy machines—so patience and due diligence pay off in securing the right truck at the right price.
What was the most popular car in 1949?
The most popular car in 1949 was likely the Ford Custom Tudor Sedan, which saw high demand and large sales numbers, especially after the company introduced a new design that was a major success. While specific sales figures for individual models are hard to find, the overall Ford brand, including Mercury and Lincoln, sold over a million vehicles, and the 1949 Ford models, particularly the Custom Tudor, were in such high demand that dealerships often couldn't keep them in stock.
- High demand: The 1949 Ford was a massive commercial success, with dealerships struggling to keep the popular models in stock due to fast sales.
- Breakthrough design: The 1949 models represented a significant design shift for Ford, marking the first time the company moved away from its traditional leaf spring suspension.
- Successful rebrand: The new styling and features were so well-received that they saved the company financially and established a modern aesthetic for future models.
What was the first year of the Dodge Power Wagon?
The first year for the Dodge Power Wagon was 1946, making it the first mass-produced civilian 4x4 truck available to the public. It was derived from Dodge's WC series of World War II military trucks and was initially designed for heavy-duty work on farms, ranches, and job sites.
You can watch this video to learn about the history of the Dodge Power Wagon: 51sStellantis North AmericaYouTube · Feb 11, 2016
- Engine: It was powered by a 230 cubic-inch flathead inline-six engine, producing about 94 horsepower.
- Drivetrain: It featured a 4-speed manual transmission and a 2-speed transfer case for its part-time four-wheel drive.
- Purpose: The Power Wagon was built for rugged utility, with features like a two-speed transfer case, a power take-off (PTO) system, and heavy-duty components suitable for tasks like plowing or running auxiliary equipment.
- Legacy: Its introduction set a new standard for civilian 4x4 trucks and cemented the Power Wagon's reputation for durability and capability.
How much is a 1949 Dodge Power Wagon worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $31,000 for a 1949 Dodge B-1-PW 1 Ton Power Wagon in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1949 Dodge B-1-PW 1 Ton Power Wagon? The highest selling price of a 1949 Dodge B-1-PW 1 Ton Power Wagon at auction over the last three years was $220,000.
What is a 1949 Chevy truck worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $23,900 for a 1949 Chevrolet Series 3100 1/2 Ton in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1949 Chevrolet Series 3100 1/2 Ton at auction over the last three years was $143,000.
