What trucks did Dodge make in the 1970s?
In the 1970s, Dodge’s truck lineup was dominated by two main families: the D-Series light- to medium-duty pickups and the heavier W-Series work trucks. The decade also saw Dodge’s utility-focused offerings built on similar platforms, but the core offerings were the D- and W-series pickups.
During this era, Dodge marketed a range of pickups designed for farming, fleet work, and general hauling, with various cab and bed configurations and both two- and four-wheel drive layouts. Here's how the lineup broke down.
Dodge light- and medium-duty pickups (D-Series)
The D-Series represented Dodge's bread-and-butter light-to-medium-duty pickups in the 1970s, available in 1/2-ton and 3/4-ton classes, with several bed and cab combinations and 4x4 options.
- D100 — the 1/2-ton Dodge pickup, offered in multiple bed lengths and cab setups.
- D200 — the 3/4-ton version, geared toward heavier payloads and workload.
- D300 — the 1-ton variant, built for tougher tasks and fleet use.
These D-Series trucks formed the core of Dodge’s pickup lineup through the decade, evolving in styling and powertrains but retaining the same basic platform family.
Dodge heavy-duty pickups (W-Series)
The W-Series covered Dodge’s heavier-duty trucks, designed for greater payload and towing capacity, and commonly found in commercial fleets and construction work. The lineup included the following main models, often built in 4x4 form for off-road or harsh-use applications.
- W100 — the lighter end of the heavy-duty range, suited to commercial use and demanding jobs.
- W200 — a mid-range heavy-duty option with higher payload capability.
- W300 — the top-end heavy-duty variant with the most robust payload and drivetrain options.
The W-Series trucks were a staple for Dodge’s work-vehicle customers during the 1970s, combining durability with straightforward, work-oriented design.
Other notes on the Dodge truck lineup
In addition to the pure pickups, Dodge offered 4x4 variants and commercially oriented configurations derived from the same platform philosophy. These trucks shared components and styling cues with Dodge’s other trucks and vans from the period, reflecting Chrysler's broader truck strategy of the era.
For collectors and enthusiasts, the 1970s Dodge D- and W-series lines represent the classic big-pickup era, characterized by solid steel construction, simple interiors, and a focus on durability over luxury.
Summary
During the 1970s, Dodge’s truck lineup centered on the D-Series light- to medium-duty pickups (D100, D200, D300) and the heavier-duty W-Series (W100, W200, W300). These trucks defined Dodge’s approach to workhorse pickups in the decade, offering multiple configurations to meet farming, fleet, and contractor needs.
What year dodge truck to stay away from?
Years to avoid include the 2012–2016 and 2018 Dodge Ram 2500 due to chronic reliability issues like brake and transmission problems, and the 2012, 2013, and 2018 Ram 1500 for electrical and component failures. Additionally, the 2003, 2010-2013, and 2014-2016 Ram 1500 models are frequently cited for issues such as steering loss and transmission problems, while the 2009-2011 Cummins diesel years are considered problematic.
Ram 1500 (1/2 ton)
- 2012, 2013, and 2018: These years had a higher-than-average number of electrical and component failures.
- 2003: This model year is noted for issues like frame rust, which caused major safety concerns.
- 2010-2013: These years saw frequent transmission problems, including rough shifting and complete failure, especially in models with the 5.7L V8 engine.
- 2014, 2016, and 2019: These years had reported power steering loss, which is a major safety risk, and electrical malfunctions.
Ram 2500/3500 (3/4 ton and 1 ton)
- 2012–2016 and 2018: These years are frequently mentioned for chronic reliability issues, such as brake system failures, steering component defects, turbocharger breakdowns, and transmission problems.
- 2019: As the first model year of the fifth generation, it experienced issues that were later resolved in subsequent model years.
Cummins Diesel Engines
- 2009–2011: These years had numerous issues, especially with their engines.
- 1999, 2001, 2003, 2006, and 2007–2008: These years are frequently cited for problems related to engine performance.
What was Dodge known for in 1970?
The Dodge brand offered standout models like the Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Coronet, Dodge Dart, Dodge Monaco, and Dodge Polara in the 1970 model year. These vehicles came in multiple trim levels and body styles, shaping one of the strongest brand lineups in muscle car history.
What was the best selling truck in 1970?
By the late 1970s, the F-Series had firmly established itself as a leader in the truck market, a position it has maintained ever since.
What models did Dodge make in 1970?
Explore 1970 Dodge Models
- 1970 A100.
- 1970 A100 Van.
- 1970 Challenger.
- 1970 Challenger R/T.
- 1970 Challenger T/A.
- 1970 Charger.
- 1970 Charger 500.
- 1970 Charger R/T.
