Dodge D150 Club Cab: Price, Mileage, Features, Specs, Variants, Engine, Interior, History & More

Brief Introduction of Dodge D150 Club Cab

The Dodge D150 Club Cab is a full-size pickup truck that holds a significant place in the brand’s history. As part of the long-running Dodge D-Series, the Club Cab was a pioneering model in the extended-cab pickup truck category. Introduced to provide extra space behind the main seat for passengers or secure storage, it catered to a growing market of buyers who needed more versatility than a standard cab could offer but did not require a full four-door crew cab. Over its multi-generational lifespan, the D150 Club Cab evolved from a rugged workhorse into a more comfortable and feature-rich vehicle, reflecting the changing demands of truck owners. Its durable construction, variety of engine options, and practical design made it a popular choice for both commercial and personal use, laying the groundwork for future generations of Dodge and Ram extended-cab trucks.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Overview

Generations and History of Dodge D150 Club Cab

The Dodge D150 Club Cab was not a standalone model but rather a significant body style within the third generation of the Dodge D-Series pickups and the subsequent first generation of the Dodge Ram. Its history is intertwined with the evolution of these iconic trucks.

Third Generation D-Series (1972-1980)

The third generation of the Dodge D-Series, launched in 1972, introduced a completely new design with a more rounded look, reminiscent of Chrysler’s “fuselage” styling of the era. A significant innovation came in 1973 when Dodge pioneered the extended-cab pickup market with the introduction of the Club Cab. This two-door cab was extended by 18 inches behind the front seats, creating 34 cubic feet of additional interior space. This area could be used for secure, weatherproof storage or for transporting additional passengers on optional, inward-facing jump seats. The Club Cab was initially available on D100 and D200 models with a choice of a 6.5-foot or 8-foot Sweptline bed. In mid-1977, Dodge redesignated its higher-capacity half-ton trucks, and the D100 became the D150, solidifying the model name that would continue for years. This generation focused on durability, using a considerable amount of galvanized steel to resist corrosion. Engine options commonly included the durable 225 Slant-Six and the popular 318 and 360 V8s.

First Generation Dodge Ram (1981-1993)

In 1981, facing financial challenges, Chrysler, under the leadership of Lee Iacocca, executed a major facelift and rebranding of its truck line. The D-Series was renamed the Dodge Ram, and the D150 designation now signified a two-wheel-drive, half-ton pickup. The 1981 update included a new grille, hood, taillights, and a more squared-off look, along with an embossed “DODGE RAM” name on the tailgate. The Club Cab was initially part of this new lineup but was dropped after the 1982 model year, only to be reintroduced for the 1990 model year due to market demand. The revived 1990 Club Cab featured standard side-facing folding rear jump seats and provided the same 34 cubic feet of secure in-cab storage. The later years of this generation saw significant technical updates, including the adoption of throttle-body fuel injection for V8 engines in 1989 and the introduction of more powerful “Magnum” V8s in 1992-1993, which greatly improved performance. This generation, while based on the 1972 chassis, carried the Dodge truck line until a complete redesign in 1994.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Facelifts and Yearly Updates

Dodge D150 Club Cab Variants and Features

Throughout its production, the D150 Club Cab was available in several trim levels, or “variants,” which offered different levels of comfort and appearance. In the 1970s, these included the base “Custom,” the mid-level “Adventurer,” and the more premium “Adventurer SE.” These packages typically added features like full-foam bench seats with cloth-and-vinyl trim, color-keyed carpeting, woodgrain instrument panel trim, and additional sound insulation. The interiors were functional and built with durable materials. By the 1980s and early 1990s, after the Ram rebranding, trim levels like the “Royal SE” and “LE” became prominent. The LE package, for instance, included a deluxe cloth bench seat, woodtone instrument panel applique, color-keyed carpeting, and a luxury steering wheel. Optional features across the years included air conditioning, power steering, power brakes, AM/FM radios with cassette players, cruise control, tilt steering, and power windows and locks, especially on later models. The reintroduced 1990 Club Cab featured a standard split-back front bench for easy access to the rear, where two side-facing, folding jump seats were standard.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience

The D150 Club Cab offered a range of engines to suit different needs. The base engine for many years was the famously reliable 225-cubic-inch “Slant-Six,” known more for its durability than its power. The most common and popular choices were the V8s, primarily the 318 cu in (5.2L) and the 360 cu in (5.9L). These engines provided a good balance of power and torque for hauling and towing. In 1989, the 5.9L V8 gained throttle-body fuel injection, which improved performance and efficiency. A major performance upgrade came in 1992 and 1993 with the introduction of the Magnum series of V8 engines. The 1993 5.2L Magnum V8 produced 230 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.9L Magnum V8 offered 230 horsepower and a robust 325 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic, various 4- and 5-speed manual gearboxes, and a 4-speed automatic with overdrive in later years. The driving experience was typical for trucks of the era, with a sturdy, firm ride. While not known for nimble handling, the D150 was praised for its solid feel and commanding view of the road. Owners consistently describe these trucks as tough and reliable workhorses.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Pricing and Mileage

The original pricing for the Dodge D150 Club Cab increased over its lifespan, reflecting inflation and added features. For example, a 1990 Club Cab had an MSRP starting around $14,357. By its final model year in 1993, the starting MSRP had risen to between $18,294 and $18,513, depending on the bed length. Fuel efficiency was a secondary concern for trucks of this era. Mileage typically ranged from 10 to 13 miles per gallon in the city and 14 to 17 miles per gallon on the highway, largely dependent on the engine, transmission, and driving habits. Owners of the V8 models from the late ’80s and early ’90s often report real-world mileage in the low teens. Maintenance costs are generally considered reasonable due to the truck’s mechanical simplicity. RepairPal estimates the average annual maintenance cost to be around $384, which is competitive for an older vehicle. However, as with any classic vehicle, costs can vary significantly based on condition and usage.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Colors, Design, and Dimensions

The D150 Club Cab featured a robust and functional design. The 1972-1980 models had a rounded aesthetic with a scalloped hood and pocketed taillights. The 1981 facelift brought a more chiseled, squared-off look with a bold crosshair grille that would become a Dodge staple. A wide variety of single and two-tone paint schemes were offered throughout the years. The interior design was utilitarian, with a simple dashboard layout and durable materials. The Club Cab body was defined by its extended length and small rear quarter windows. It was available with two wheelbase options corresponding to bed size: a 133-inch wheelbase for the 6.5-foot bed and a 149-inch wheelbase for the 8-foot bed. The overall length of a 1990 model with the short bed was 211 inches, and the width was a substantial 79.5 inches, giving it a commanding presence.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Safety Features

Safety standards for trucks during the D150 Club Cab’s production run were far less advanced than they are today. As such, it lacks many modern safety features. Early models featured basic elements like lap belts. Later models included an energy-absorbing steering column and a steering column lock to deter theft. One significant safety upgrade occurred in 1989 when rear-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) became standard, a feature that was extended to all models in 1991 to improve stopping control. The truck’s body-on-frame construction provided a degree of inherent ruggedness. However, features like airbags, electronic stability control, and modern crash test ratings were not part of its era. For the 1993 model, features like child door locks and child seat anchors were listed as not available.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Infotainment and Connectivity

Infotainment and connectivity as we know them today did not exist during the D150 Club Cab’s production. The focus was on basic, functional in-car entertainment. Earlier models offered a standard AM radio, with an AM/FM radio being a common upgrade. By the late 1970s and into the 1980s, options expanded to include AM/FM stereos with 8-track or cassette tape players. The instrument cluster was redesigned for 1981 and updated again in 1990 to feature easier-to-read magnetic gauges, including a speedometer, odometer, trip odometer, and voltmeter. The systems were simple, controlled by physical knobs and buttons, and lacked any form of digital screen, navigation, or smartphone integration.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Owner Reviews & Ratings

Owners of the Dodge D150 Club Cab, particularly from its final years (1981-1993), consistently praise the truck for its toughness, reliability, and workhorse capabilities. Many reviews highlight the durability of the V8 engines and the truck’s ability to handle heavy hauling and towing tasks, with some owners claiming to have towed well beyond the official ratings. The simple mechanics make it relatively easy and inexpensive to maintain and repair for those with mechanical knowledge. Common complaints often revolve around the rough ride quality, which is expected from a heavy-duty suspension of that period, and poor fuel economy, especially with the carbureted V8 models. Despite these drawbacks, owner satisfaction is remarkably high. For the 1993 model year, Kelley Blue Book reports that 96% of owners would recommend the vehicle, giving it a 4.4 out of 5-star rating, citing its performance and reliability as its strongest assets.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Comparison with Similar Cars

The Dodge D150 Club Cab’s primary competitors throughout its life were the Ford F-150 SuperCab and the Chevrolet/GMC C/K Extended Cab models. All three American automakers offered these extended cab configurations to capture the growing market for more versatile trucks. The D150 often competed on toughness and was known for its solid, no-nonsense build. Ford’s F-150 was frequently the sales leader and was known for a slightly more comfortable ride and a wider range of options in certain years. Chevrolet’s C/K series was also a strong competitor, praised for its styling and available powertrains. While the Dodge often lagged behind Ford and GM in sales figures, it maintained a loyal following. A key differentiator for Dodge in the later years was the introduction of the powerful and reliable Cummins turbo-diesel engine in its heavy-duty trucks starting in 1989, though this was not an option for the half-ton D150. In terms of value, the D150 was often seen as a capable and more affordable alternative to its main rivals.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Awards and Recognition

While the D150 Club Cab itself did not win many individual awards, the Dodge Ram truck line, which it became a part of, has received numerous accolades over the years. Notably, Ram trucks have been named Motor Trend magazine’s “Truck of the Year” on multiple occasions. The second-generation Ram, which directly succeeded the D150’s generation, won the prestigious award in 1994, a testament to the foundation laid by trucks like the D150. A Cummins-powered Dodge from the D150’s final model year (1993) also won “Tow Vehicle Of The Year” from Trailer Boats magazine, highlighting the platform’s capability.

Interesting Facts about Dodge D150 Club Cab

• Dodge was the first of the “Big Three” American automakers to offer a factory-built extended cab pickup with the introduction of the Club Cab in 1973.
• The 1981 rebranding from the D-Series to the Dodge Ram was accompanied by the reintroduction of the Ram hood ornament, which was first used on Dodge vehicles from 1932 to 1954.
• Many body panels from 1972 to 1993 are interchangeable, leading some owners to create “hybrid” trucks with parts from different model years.
• The Club Cab design was temporarily shelved after 1982, but Dodge retained the tooling, allowing for its relatively easy reintroduction in 1990.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Legacy and Influence

The Dodge D150 Club Cab’s primary legacy is its role in pioneering the extended-cab truck segment for the mainstream market. Its introduction proved that there was significant demand for a truck that offered more secure space and passenger capability than a standard cab without the full size and cost of a crew cab. This innovation forced competitors to follow suit, and the extended cab has remained a staple of the pickup truck market ever since. The D150’s transition into the first-generation Dodge Ram also marked a pivotal moment for the brand, establishing the “Ram” nameplate that would grow to become a standalone, highly successful truck brand. The truck’s reputation for durability and ruggedness helped solidify Dodge’s image as a builder of tough, capable vehicles, a perception that continues with the Ram brand today.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Global Availability

The Dodge D150 Club Cab was primarily manufactured and sold in North America, with its main markets being the United States and Canada. Production facilities were located in the United States, and some models were also assembled in Mexico. As a full-size American pickup truck, it was primarily designed for the tastes and needs of the North American market and was predominantly available in left-hand drive. While some may have been privately exported, there was no large-scale, official marketing or manufacturing of this specific model in regions like Europe, Asia, or Australia where smaller pickups are more common. The Dodge Ram brand, its successor, has seen wider global distribution in later generations.

Dodge D150 Club Cab Maintenance and Ownership Costs

The Dodge D150 Club Cab generally has reasonable ownership costs, especially for owners capable of performing their own maintenance. Its mechanical simplicity means fewer complex electronic systems to fail. Regular maintenance follows a typical schedule for older vehicles, with oil and filter changes, tire rotations, and inspections recommended at regular intervals, such as every 7,500 miles. More significant services, including fluid replacements for the transmission and brakes, are typically recommended at milestones like 30,000 miles. The average annual repair cost is estimated to be relatively low for a vehicle of its age. However, costs for major repairs like a control arm replacement or steering gearbox replacement can be significant. Due to its age, resale value can vary dramatically based on condition, mileage, and originality, but it has a dedicated following in the classic truck market.

Final Words about Dodge D150 Club Cab

The Dodge D150 Club Cab stands as a testament to a pivotal era in pickup truck evolution. It successfully bridged the gap between pure utility and the growing need for personal-use versatility. As a pioneer of the extended-cab design, it offered a practical solution that has since become a standard in the industry. For buyers today, the D150 Club Cab represents a durable, straightforward, and capable classic truck. Its appeal lies in its rugged simplicity, powerful V8 options, and the tangible connection to a golden age of American pickups. While it may lack modern comforts and safety features, its legacy as a tough, reliable workhorse and an innovative family hauler is firmly cemented in automotive history.