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

Brief Introduction of Dodge D150 Regular Cab

The Dodge D150 Regular Cab is a full-size pickup truck that represents a significant era in American automotive history. As part of the long-running Dodge D-Series, the D150 was known for its rugged durability, straightforward design, and dependable performance. Primarily categorized as a half-ton, two-wheel-drive pickup, it was a popular choice for both work and personal use. Its popularity stemmed from its robust construction and the availability of powerful and reliable engines, particularly the Slant-Six and a range of V8s. Over its production life, the D150 was part of a single but evolving generation that saw numerous updates, variants, and a significant rebranding that solidified its legacy in the truck world before its eventual discontinuation.

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Overview

Generations and History of Dodge D150 Regular Cab

The Dodge D150 Regular Cab is technically part of the third generation of the Dodge D-Series pickup trucks, a line that began in 1961. This third generation had a remarkably long lifespan, running from 1972 to 1993. The “D150” name itself was introduced in the mid-1977 model year, replacing the D100 designation for heavier-duty half-ton models. These trucks were built on Chrysler’s AD platform and were characterized by their rounded styling cues, which were a departure from the more angular designs of the previous generation. This generation is often colloquially split into two main phases: the pre-facelift models from 1972-1980 and the facelifted models from 1981-1993, which were also rebranded under the iconic “Ram” nameplate.

Third Generation (1972-1993) – The Era of the D150

The third-generation D-Series, introduced in 1972, brought significant updates. It featured a more rounded look, an independent front suspension on two-wheel-drive models for a better ride, and a larger, more comfortable cab. The interior was redesigned with a more modern dashboard and features like air conditioning became available for the first time. The D150 variant, specifically, was introduced to signify a half-ton pickup with a higher gross vehicle weight rating than the preceding D100. This era focused on blending utility with personal comfort, a trend that was growing in the American truck market. Trim packages like the luxurious Adventurer SE and the sporty Warlock added to its appeal. A major turning point came in 1981 when, under the leadership of Lee Iacocca, the D-Series was rebranded as the “Dodge Ram,” with the D150 becoming the Ram 150. This change introduced a new face with a more prominent grille and the now-famous Ram’s head hood ornament. The underlying chassis and cab structure, however, remained largely the same as the 1972 design, a testament to its durability. The body panels from 1972 to 1993 are largely interchangeable, leading many owners to create unique combinations over the years.

Discontinuation and Legacy

The Dodge D150, under the Ram 150 name, concluded its run in 1993. It was the final year for the long-running third-generation design. This model was a bridge between the purely utilitarian trucks of the past and the more comfortable, feature-rich pickups that would follow. Its successor, the completely redesigned second-generation Dodge Ram introduced for the 1994 model year, marked a revolutionary shift in pickup truck design with its bold “big-rig” styling and modern interiors. The D150 is remembered as a tough, reliable, and straightforward workhorse, with many still on the road today due to their simple mechanics and durable construction.

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Facelifts and Yearly Updates

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Variants and Features

Throughout its long production run, the D150 Regular Cab was available in several variants and trim levels, evolving from a basic work truck to a more comfortably appointed personal vehicle. The Regular Cab offered a single bench seat, typically for three occupants. Two cargo bed lengths were available: a 6.5-foot short bed on a 115-inch wheelbase and an 8-foot long bed on a 131-inch wheelbase.

Early variants included the base “Custom” and the more upscale “Adventurer,” which could be further upgraded with “SE” or “Prospector” packages that added features like full carpeting, extra insulation, brighter exterior trim, and woodgrain accents. Special “lifestyle” pickups were also a highlight of the late 1970s, such as the “Warlock” with its gold wheels and pinstriping, and the high-performance “Li’l Red Express,” which for a short time was one of the fastest American-made vehicles.

After the 1981 rebranding to Dodge Ram, trim levels included a base model, a mid-level “Royal,” and the top-tier “Royal SE.” These trims determined the level of interior comfort and exterior styling. Base models featured vinyl bench seats and rubber floor mats, perfect for work environments. Higher trims offered cloth or premium cloth upholstery, carpeting, a full headliner, and door panels with cloth inserts. Optional features included air conditioning, cruise control, a tilt steering column, power windows, and power door locks. By the early 1990s, the LE package represented the highest trim level, often including most of these features as standard.

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience

The D150’s driving experience was defined by its powertrain. A range of engines was offered over the years to cater to different needs, from economy to V8 power.

• 3.7L (225 cu in) Slant-Six I6: This legendary engine was the base powerplant for many years, known for its incredible durability and reliability rather than its speed. It produced around 95 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque.
• 3.9L V6: Introduced in 1988 with throttle-body fuel injection, this engine replaced the Slant-Six as the base engine. In its later “Magnum” iteration (1992-1993), it produced around 180 horsepower.
• 5.2L (318 cu in) V8: A very popular option, this V8 provided a good balance of power and reliability. Early carbureted versions produced around 135-160 horsepower. The fuel-injected “Magnum” version introduced in 1992 was a significant upgrade, boosting output to 230 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
• 5.9L (360 cu in) V8: The top gasoline engine option for the D150, offering more hauling and towing capability. The “Magnum” version, available in 1993, produced similar horsepower to the 5.2L Magnum but with more torque.

Transmission choices included a 3-speed or 4-speed TorqueFlite automatic, or a 4-speed or 5-speed manual. The ride quality was typical for a truck of its era—firm and bouncy when unloaded, especially on rough surfaces. The independent front suspension on two-wheel-drive models did provide a more comfortable ride compared to the solid front axles of many competitors. Handling was predictable but not agile, with slow steering and considerable body roll in corners. Acceleration was modest with the six-cylinder engines but respectable with the V8s, especially the later Magnum versions. The driving experience was visceral and connected, with plenty of engine noise and road feel, a stark contrast to modern, insulated pickup trucks.

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Pricing and Mileage

When new, the Dodge D150 was competitively priced against its Ford and Chevrolet counterparts. In its final years, a 1992 D150 Regular Cab had a starting MSRP of around $15,949 for a short bed and $16,166 for a long bed. A 1993 model saw a slight increase to $16,360 and $16,577, respectively.

Fuel efficiency was not a strong point for these trucks, particularly by modern standards. The later Magnum V8 models from 1992-1993 typically returned an EPA-estimated 11 miles per gallon in the city and 16 miles per gallon on the highway. Owner reviews often cite poor gas mileage as one of the truck’s main weaknesses, with real-world figures often in the low double digits, especially for the V8 models. Running costs are a mixed bag; while fuel consumption is high, the mechanical simplicity of these trucks means that maintenance and repairs are generally straightforward and less expensive than on more complex modern vehicles. Many owners report performing maintenance themselves due to the ease of access to engine components.

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Colors, Design, and Dimensions

The exterior design of the D150 was characterized by a boxy, straightforward, and rugged aesthetic that evolved subtly over its lifespan. The 1972-1980 models had a more rounded look with single or dual round headlights set into a simple grille. The 1981 facelift brought a bolder, more aggressive look with a crosshair grille and rectangular headlamps, which defined the “Dodge Ram” look for the next decade. A wide range of colors was available, including solid tones like Bright White and Flame Red, as well as metallic options like Canyon Red Metallic and Charcoal Gray Metallic. Two-tone paint schemes were also a popular option.

The interior was functional and spartan. The dashboard layout was simple, with a three-pod instrument cluster for speed, fuel, and other vital signs. Materials were chosen for durability, with hard plastics, vinyl, and tough fabrics being the norm. Higher trim levels added some comfort with carpeting and plusher seats.

Dimensions:

• Wheelbase: 115 inches (6.5-ft bed) / 131 inches (8-ft bed)
• Overall Length: Approx. 190.8 inches (Short Bed) / 210 inches (Long Bed)
• Width: Approx. 79.5 inches
• Height: Approx. 69.8 to 70.1 inches

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Safety Features

Safety features on the Dodge D150 were rudimentary compared to modern vehicles, as it was produced before the widespread adoption of many safety technologies. There are no official crash test ratings from agencies like the NHTSA or IIHS for this model generation.

• Rear-Wheel Anti-lock Brakes (ABS): This was a significant safety feature for its time, becoming available in 1989 and made standard in 1991. It helped prevent the rear wheels from locking up during hard braking, improving control.
• Lap and Shoulder Belts: The truck was equipped with 3-point safety belts for outboard passengers.
• Collapsible Steering Column: Designed to compress in a frontal collision to reduce injury to the driver.
• Side Guard Door Beams: These were internal reinforcements in the doors to provide some protection in side-impact collisions.

Advanced safety systems like airbags, electronic stability control, and modern crumple zones were not available on the D150 Regular Cab.

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Infotainment and Connectivity

Infotainment and connectivity in the Dodge D150 were very basic, reflecting the era in which it was built. The standard audio system was a simple AM radio, with an AM/FM stereo and a cassette player available as upgrades on higher trim levels. The dashboard had a simple layout with physical knobs and buttons for radio and climate controls. There was no touchscreen, navigation system, Bluetooth, or any of the smart features common in today’s vehicles. Some owners have since upgraded their trucks with modern aftermarket head units to add features like Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The focus of the D150’s interior was on durability and functionality rather than entertainment and technology.

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Owner Reviews & Ratings

Owner reviews for the Dodge D150 and Ram 150 of this generation are generally very positive, with a strong emphasis on reliability and durability. Many owners report their trucks lasting for well over 200,000 miles with only routine maintenance. The engines, particularly the 3.7L Slant-Six and the 5.2L V8, are frequently praised for their longevity. Owners describe the truck as a “true workhorse” that is tough, dependable, and capable of handling heavy loads and towing. The simple mechanical design is also a major pro, as many owners find it easy and inexpensive to repair themselves.

Common complaints typically revolve around comfort and fuel economy. The ride is often described as rough and bumpy, and the interior is considered basic and not very comfortable for long trips. Poor gas mileage is the most frequently cited negative, with many owners reporting fuel consumption in the low teens. Rust is another common issue, especially in the bed and on the lower body panels. Despite these drawbacks, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with a KBB.com consumer rating of 4.4 out of 5 for the 1981-1993 generation and a 96% recommendation rate.

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Comparison with Similar Cars

During its production, the Dodge D150’s main competitors were the Ford F-150 and the Chevrolet C/K 1500.

• Ford F-150: Often the best-selling truck in America, the F-150 was known for its wide range of options, trims, and innovative features for the time. Compared to the D150, the F-150 often offered a more comfortable ride and a more refined interior, especially in its higher trims. However, many owners found the D150’s powertrain, particularly the Slant-Six and TorqueFlite transmission, to be more robust and durable.
• Chevrolet C/K 1500: The Chevy was praised for its independent front suspension (on 2WD models), which provided a relatively smooth ride, similar to the D150. The C/K series also offered a wide variety of engine choices. The D150 was often seen as a more no-nonsense, ruggedly built alternative. While Chevrolet and Ford sold in higher volumes, the Dodge had a loyal following who valued its simplicity and durability over creature comforts.

Overall, the Dodge D150 held its own as a value proposition, offering legendary toughness and reliability, even if it sometimes lagged behind Ford and Chevy in terms of interior refinement and sales numbers.

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Awards and Recognition

While specific awards for the D150 model are not widely documented, the Dodge D-Series and its successor, the Ram, have been recognized for their durability and capability over the years. The D-Series trucks were a staple of the American workforce for decades, earning a reputation for being tough and reliable. The later Ram trucks built on this legacy would go on to win numerous “Truck of the Year” awards, but these were for the redesigned models that came after 1993. The primary recognition for the D150 comes from its enduring presence on the road and its popularity within the classic truck community.

Interesting Facts about Dodge D150 Regular Cab

• The D-Series was one of the first pickups from the “Big Three” American manufacturers to offer a factory-built four-door crew cab, starting in 1963.
• The high-performance 1978-1979 “Li’l Red Express” D150 was, for a short time, the fastest American-produced vehicle from 0-100 MPH due to loopholes in emissions regulations.
• The body design of the third-generation D-Series was so durable and well-received that it remained in production for 21 years with only cosmetic changes, from 1972 to 1993.
• The D-Series trucks were assembled in various locations, including the United States, Canada, and even Argentina.

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Legacy and Influence

The Dodge D150 Regular Cab and the third-generation D-Series trucks have a strong legacy in the world of pickups. They solidified Dodge’s reputation for building tough, no-nonsense trucks. The 1981 rebranding to the “Ram” was a pivotal moment in the brand’s history, creating an identity that would become synonymous with power and capability for decades to come. The D150’s long production run and focus on durability created a loyal following. Its influence can be seen in the continued emphasis on powertrain strength and reliability in modern Ram trucks. The D150’s simple, rugged design has also made it a popular choice for classic truck enthusiasts and customizers.

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Global Availability

The Dodge D150 was primarily manufactured and sold in the North American market, including the United States and Canada (where it was also sold under the Fargo brand for a time). Production facilities were located in Warren, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario. Additionally, D-Series trucks were assembled in other countries, including Argentina and Brazil, for their local markets. There is evidence of D-Series trucks being produced in Israel for both civilian and military use. However, it was predominantly a left-hand drive vehicle designed for the American market and was not officially sold in most right-hand drive countries.

Dodge D150 Regular Cab Maintenance and Ownership Costs

One of the key appeals of owning a classic Dodge D150 today is the relatively low cost of maintenance. Its simple mechanical design makes it easy for owners to perform their own service, such as oil changes, tune-ups, and brake jobs. Spare parts for common maintenance items are generally available and affordable due to the long production run and the interchangeability of many parts across model years. However, specific trim pieces and body panels can be more challenging to find. The resale value of the D150 has been steadily increasing as classic trucks have grown in popularity. While not as high as some of its Ford or Chevy contemporaries, well-maintained examples can command a decent price. The biggest ownership cost is typically fuel, due to the V8 engines’ thirst.

Final Words about Dodge D150 Regular Cab

The Dodge D150 Regular Cab is an icon of a bygone era of pickup trucks. It represents a time when simplicity, durability, and utility were the primary focus. While it lacks the comfort, safety, and technology of a modern truck, its appeal lies in its rugged honesty and mechanical simplicity. For buyers looking for a classic workhorse, a straightforward restoration project, or a dependable vintage daily driver, the D150 offers a lot of value. Its legacy as a tough, reliable truck is well-deserved, and its place in the history of the Dodge Ram brand is undeniable. The D150 is more than just an old truck; it’s a piece of American automotive heritage.