Since the early days of automobiles, pickup trucks have been a staple, with the Rapid Motor Vehicle Company building one-ton pickups in 1902. Over the past century, these workhorses have evolved to include more rugged designs and performance-oriented drivetrains. Certain models have become iconic representations of American hard work and adventure, known for their luxurious, durable, and reliable features. Here are 15 classic trucks you can still count on, listed chronologically.

1946 Dodge Power Wagon 

In 1946, Dodge transformed a war hero into a legend. The carmaker built this model directly from  Dodge’s WC series military trucks used in World War II. Since the vehicle had a two- or four-wheel drive, beefy axles, high ground clearance, and a maximum payload of 3,000 pounds, it worked fine on farms, fields, and sites, regardless of the terrain.

1963 Jeep Gladiator

When Jeep released this model, they decided to try a new breed, shifting from the stereotypical workaholic trucks. As an afterthought of the Cherokee, this luxurious vehicle had a small 3.6-liter inline-six cylinder with an optional Buick 350 small-block V-8 delivering 230 HP. The Gladiator had a removable hardtop, transforming it into a capable open-air hauler – perfect for exploring the backcountry.

1966 Ford F-250

F-250 “Highboys” were favorites when they first entered the market and got its nickname from its four-inch suspension lift. Many models had four-wheel drive, making them unstoppable in mud, snow, or sand. Additional features such as Dana axles and locking hubs further enhanced off-road prowess.

1967 Chevrolet C-Series 

General Motors nicknamed these trucks the “Action Line.” They served Americans who needed trucks to handle hauling or towing while still working as daily drivers. Although it retained the proven functionality of its predecessors, the 1967 C-Series received a complete redesign. The body was sleeker and more modern, unlike the utilitarian look of previous models.

1968 Ford F-100

Here’s another workhorse capable of tackling demanding jobs. The 1968 F-100 is a reliable truck with a rugged construction, a body-on-frame design, and robust engines (including a 390 cubic inch V8). This generation of F-Series trucks introduced features such as dual headlights and a wider track width, improving stability and safety.

1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS 454 LS6

Chevrolet designed this model to blur the lines between a muscle car and a pickup truck. The 1970 El Camino SS 454 LS6 was like a sleek El Camino with a Chevrolet Chevelle SS engine. It first had the 396-cubic-inch big block before getting the legendary 454-cubic-inch LS6 V8 engine, delivering an impressive 450 HP. With less than 500 sold, this exclusive piece is a true collector’s dream.

1979 Toyota Pickup 

Toyota built the 1979 Pickup, focusing more on strength and long-term use. It had a body-on-frame construction and proven suspension that could withstand tough jobs and off-road driving. Having an optional four-wheel drive system, this smaller pickup changed the narrative going places bigger cars and models couldn’t manage without compromising fuel efficiency.

1984 Toyota Hilux

With good maintenance, the 1984 Toyota Hilux could run thousands of miles, working for years without costing the owner much. This popular compact pickup truck, known for its durability and off-road capability, came in varying configurations, including single-cab, double-cab, and extended-cab models, plus two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. Hilux had several engine options, including a 1.8-liter gasoline engine and a powerful 2.4-liter diesel, producing 84 HP.

1986 Nissan Hardbody

Don’t let the “compact” label fool you. The Hardbody had a fuel-injected 2.4L inline-four engine with surprising muscle for its class. For those seeking even more power, Nissan added an optional 3.0L V6, making it one of the most powerful trucks in its segment. While a Japanese import, Nissan built the Hardbody in their new U.S. factory, appealing to consumers who wanted a truck with domestic roots.

1989 Dodge Shelby Dakota

As a limited-edition collaboration between Dodge and automotive legend Carroll Shelby, the Shelby Dakota vehicles were beasts on the street and strip. After making the bare Dakota pickups, Dodge would ship them to Shelby’s team, who fine-tuned and installed the 5.2-liter engine. Then, they would add special touches like Shelby graphics, performance wheels, and a lowered suspension to set it apart from the standard Dakota.

1990 Chevrolet 454 SS

From the outside, the 454 SS looked like a regular Chevy pickup. However, its soul was far more ferocious. It had a monstrous 454 cubic inch V8 engine, a powerhouse rarely seen in a production truck at the time. Although not flashy, this powerful vehicle had stiffer suspension and upgraded sway bars for better handling. It also had bucket seats with a center console that was more comfortable compared to standard pickups of the era.

1991 GMC Syclone

Although the Syclone might have looked like a standard GMC Sonoma pickup, it was more. The engineers installed a turbocharged 4.3-liter V6 engine pumping out 280 HP and 350 lb-ft of torque. With a top speed of 124 MPH and an all-wheel-drive system, it was one of the fastest production trucks released in 1991.

1993 Ford F150 SVT LightningMecum

When Ford introduced this model to replace the outgoing Custom designation, they added more comfort features, revised the speed control system, and improved the seat padding. They also paired the engine to an E40D heavy-duty four-speed automatic transmission, then connected it to a Traction-Lok rear end using an aluminum driveshaft. For those seeking more muscle, the 5.8L V8 from Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) performance variant delivered a thrilling 240 HP. 

1993 Nissan Hardbody SE-V6

The 1993 Hardbody was the first vehicle with Nissan’s D21 platform, replacing the outgoing 720 series. Likewise, the carmakers released it before the Frontier and the Toyota Tacoma for people who needed a compact and reliable vehicle. Although it lacks modern features, it can comfortably handle daily driving with good maintenance.

1998 GMC Sierra

It embodied the “GMC Truck: Like a Rock” slogan. The carmaker gave it a body-on-frame construction and reliable engines, like the legendary 200-HP 4.3-liter V6, built to withstand tough jobs and years of use. Regarding its looks, GMC was responding to market demands for trucks that had extra to offer besides work. So they released the Sierra in several configurations, including regular, extended, and crew cab options, along with short and long bed choices.