My Journey with Pickup Trucks: A Passion for Classic and Underrated Models
When it comes to pickup trucks, my journey is a love letter to classic models and the gasoline engines they house. The 74 Kaiser Jeep C30 with Cutlass Hubs and the American-made masterpiece with its solid steel construction, low center of gravity, and roomy payload, are true treasures in my garage.
From Old Fondness to Modern Day
I don't really have a 'favorite' truck, but that's because the right pickup truly depends on the job at hand. In my past, I've owned a variety of trucks, from a 2005 Chevy Silverado to a customized 1957 Ranchero. My heart, however, lies with the classic 1963 and 1965 Ford F-100, and the 1973 Chevy pickup. Additionally, I've had the utility of a 1973 International Panel truck, and even a humble station wagon that did the job.
Post-WWII and the Road to Modern Pickup
After World War II, the truck manufacturing industry underwent a transformation. Many manufacturers, learning from the wartime experience, decided to build prettier cabs and add unnecessary, slightly less practical features. This era marked the beginning of built-in obsolescence and heavy reliance on advertising, signaling a shift away from efficient, functional trucks towards more consumer-centric designs. International Harvester, however, took a different path. They leaned into making their trucks better at their core functionality, embracing improvements without compromising on style.
Contemporary Favourites
In today's market, the Isuzu D-Max and Mitsubishi Triton have captured my heart. Both models are celebrated for their aggressive stance and powerful diesel engines. The introduction of the Isuzu D-Max's RZ4E engine and the power of the Mitsubishi Triton's 4N15 engine have made them formidable choices. Moreover, these trucks are perfect for non-North American markets, as they are more compact and versatile compared to their American counterparts like the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and Dodge RAM. While large trucks are a wonderful experience, it's clear that these Smaller trucks have their own allure and charm.
Conclusion
While my journey with pickup trucks has brought me through a wide range of makes and models, it's the classics that still hold a special place in my garage. From the robust 74 Kaiser Jeep C30 to the modern and efficient Isuzu D-Max and Mitsubishi Triton, every truck has a story to tell.
Whether you're a classic enthusiast or looking for a modern pickup that delivers, there's a truck out there for everyone. Feel free to share your favorite pickup truck and the reasons behind it!