Dodge D350 Regular Cab: Price, Mileage, Features, Specs, Variants, Engine, Interior, History & More

Brief Introduction of Dodge D350 Regular Cab

The Dodge D350 Regular Cab is a full-size pickup truck that was part of the Dodge D/W series of trucks. This line of pickup trucks was sold by Dodge from October 1960 to September 30, 1993. The “D” designation indicated a two-wheel-drive model, while “W” signified four-wheel-drive. The D350 was the one-ton variant, designed for heavy-duty work and substantial payloads. Over its long production run, the D-series, including the D350, spanned three generations, each with its own set of updates and engine options. The truck is particularly noteworthy for being one of the first Dodge models to feature the legendary Cummins turbo-diesel engine, which cemented its reputation for power and durability. Although discontinued, the Dodge D350 Regular Cab remains a popular and respected vehicle among classic truck enthusiasts and those who value robust, no-nonsense workhorses.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Overview

Generations and History of Dodge D350 Regular Cab

First Generation (1961–1965)

The first generation of the Dodge D-Series trucks was introduced in October 1960 for the 1961 model year, replacing the C-Series. These trucks featured a stronger frame, more durable axles, and a longer wheelbase than their predecessors. The D300, the precursor to the D350 designation, was available with a 9-foot bed. Engine choices included a range of Slant-6 and V8 gasoline engines. A notable innovation came in 1963 with the introduction of a four-door crew-cab, making Dodge the first of the “Big Three” American automakers to offer a factory-produced truck with two rows of seating. A Perkins diesel engine was briefly offered in 1962 but was discontinued due to low demand.

Second Generation (1965–1971)

A mid-generation refresh occurred in the spring of 1965, which included a wider tailgate and the introduction of the updated LA series of engines to replace the A-series. Models with 8-foot beds also received a six-inch wheelbase stretch. In 1967, the option of a big-block 383 2-barrel engine became available. The overall design of this generation was a subtle evolution of the first, retaining a rugged and functional appearance. This generation continued to build on the D-Series’ reputation for toughness and utility.

Third Generation (1972–1993)

The third generation, which had the longest production run, saw a significant redesign for the 1972 model year with a more rounded look. This design language would largely remain until the end of the D-Series in 1993. An important development during this era was the introduction of the “Club Cab” extended-cab model in 1973. In 1981, the D-Series was rebranded as the “Dodge Ram,” with two-wheel-drive models being called Ram and four-wheel-drive models called Power Ram. This generation received a facelift in 1981 with a new grille, hood, and interior. The most significant update for the D350 came in 1989 with the introduction of the 5.9L 12-valve Cummins turbo-diesel engine. This engine, with its 160 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, was a game-changer, offering unmatched power and reliability that saved Dodge’s truck lineup and set a new standard in the diesel pickup market. The final models were produced in 1993 before being replaced by the completely redesigned second-generation Dodge Ram.

Latest Generation

The Dodge D350 Regular Cab and the entire D-Series line were discontinued after the 1993 model year. They were succeeded by the all-new Dodge Ram trucks. The legacy of the D350, particularly its heavy-duty capability and the introduction of the Cummins diesel, continued in the Ram 2500 and 3500 models that followed. There are no currently available versions of the Dodge D350 Regular Cab.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Facelifts and Yearly Updates

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Variants and Features

Throughout its production, the Dodge D350 Regular Cab was offered in a straightforward, no-frills configuration befitting its workhorse nature. The primary variant was the single cab with a long bed, typically an 8-foot “Sweptline” bed. A “Utiline” step-side bed was also an option in earlier generations. The D350 designation specifically referred to the one-ton, two-wheel-drive model, while its four-wheel-drive counterpart was the W350 “Power Ram.” A key feature, especially in later years, was the dual-rear-wheel (“dually”) configuration, which provided enhanced stability and payload capacity for heavy towing and hauling. Interiors were designed for durability and practicality, with tough materials and a focus on function over luxury. However, later models offered amenities like air conditioning and an improved sound system.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience

The performance of the Dodge D350 Regular Cab was defined by its powertrain. Early generations offered a variety of gasoline engines, from the dependable Slant-6 to more powerful V8s. The third generation continued this with V8 options like the 5.2L and 5.9L Magnum engines. However, the introduction of the 5.9L 12-valve Cummins turbo-diesel in 1989 revolutionized the D350’s capabilities. This inline-six engine produced 160 horsepower and a class-leading 400 lb-ft of torque at a low 1,700 rpm. This low-end torque made the diesel D350 an exceptional tow vehicle, with a max trailer weight of up to 11,900 pounds in certain configurations. The driving experience was that of a traditional heavy-duty truck; the ride was firm due to the heavy-duty leaf spring suspension designed to handle substantial loads. While not known for its comfort, the D350 was praised for its robust handling and stability, especially when loaded. Transmission options included tough manual gearboxes and reliable automatic transmissions.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Pricing and Mileage

When new, the Dodge D350 was priced competitively as a work vehicle. For example, a 1992 D350 Regular Cab had a starting MSRP of $17,386, and a 1993 model started at $18,155. Today, these trucks are considered classics, and their value varies greatly depending on condition, mileage, and especially the presence of the Cummins diesel engine. Well-maintained examples, particularly those with the Cummins engine, can command prices from $10,000 to over $20,000. Fuel efficiency was not a primary selling point for these heavy-duty trucks, and official mileage figures are not readily available. Mileage would have varied significantly based on the engine, with the Cummins diesel generally offering better fuel economy under load compared to the large gasoline V8s. Maintenance costs for older vehicles like the D350 can be a concern, though their simple construction and the legendary durability of the Cummins engine can make them easier and sometimes cheaper to repair than modern, more complex trucks.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Colors, Design, and Dimensions

The design of the Dodge D350 Regular Cab was consistently utilitarian and robust throughout its generations. The exterior was characterized by a boxy, strong silhouette that emphasized its capability. The third generation’s more rounded design introduced in 1972 stayed remarkably consistent until 1993. Available colors included a range of solid, classic truck colors like white, black, red, blue, and burgundy. The interior was spartan and functional, built with durable materials to withstand a work environment. Key dimensions for a typical regular cab long bed model included a wheelbase of 131 inches. The defining visual feature for many D350s was the dual-rear-wheel setup, giving the truck a wide, planted stance that signaled its heavy-duty intentions.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Safety Features

The Dodge D350 Regular Cab was built in an era before modern safety features became standard. As such, it lacks many of the safety systems found in today’s trucks.

• Airbags: Not available.
• ABS / EBD: Rear-wheel ABS became standard on D350 models starting in 1989.
• Electronic Stability Control: Not available.
• Crash Test Ratings: Not available, as government crash testing was not common during its production years.
• Other advanced safety systems: None.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Infotainment and Connectivity

Infotainment and connectivity as we know them today did not exist during the production run of the Dodge D350. The standard setup would have included a basic AM/FM radio, with a cassette player being a premium option in later years. The focus was on functionality, with simple, durable controls for the radio and climate systems. There were no touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity, or advanced smart features available.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Owner Reviews & Ratings

Owner reviews for the Dodge D350, particularly for the 1989-1993 models equipped with the Cummins diesel engine, are overwhelmingly positive. Owners consistently praise the truck’s incredible reliability and durability, with many reporting hundreds of thousands of miles on the original engine. The Cummins engine is frequently cited as “the best ever built” due to its simplicity and longevity. Common praises focus on the truck’s immense towing power and its ability to handle heavy work without issue. The most common complaint is the stiff, uncomfortable ride when the truck is unloaded, a direct result of its heavy-duty suspension. The interior is often described as basic and noisy, but this is generally accepted as part of the truck’s character. Overall, the D350 is remembered as a legendary workhorse that simply does not break down.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Comparison with Similar Cars

During its time, the Dodge D350 Regular Cab competed with other one-ton pickup trucks from Ford and General Motors. Its primary competitors were the Ford F-350 and the Chevrolet/GMC C/K 3500. While all three offered strong V8 gasoline engines and heavy-duty capabilities, the Dodge D350 gained a significant advantage with the introduction of the 5.9L Cummins turbo-diesel engine in 1989. At the time, the diesel engines from Ford (International Harvester IDI) and GM (Detroit Diesel) were naturally aspirated. The turbocharged and direct-injected Cummins offered significantly more torque (400 lb-ft) than its competitors, making the Dodge the preferred choice for serious towing. While the Ford and GM trucks may have offered more modern styling or comfortable interiors in certain years, the Dodge D350 with the Cummins engine carved out a niche for itself based on the sheer power and unmatched reliability of its powertrain.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Awards and Recognition

While formal awards for trucks were less common during the D350’s production run, the Cummins-powered Dodge trucks earned significant recognition for their capabilities.

• In its final year, a 1993 Cummins-powered Dodge won “Tow Vehicle of the Year” from Trailer Boats magazine.
• The Cummins engine itself helped Dodge earn “best-in-class” titles for performance and towing more than any other diesel engine on the market starting in 1989.

Interesting Facts about Dodge D350 Regular Cab

• The 5.9L Cummins engine is often credited with saving Dodge’s truck division from poor sales in the late 1980s.
• The D-Series trucks shared their basic platform (the Chrysler AD platform) from 1972 all the way to 1993.
• Because many body panels are interchangeable from 1971 to 1993, it’s not uncommon for owners to create custom trucks by mixing and matching parts from different years.
• The D350 shared some of its underpinnings with the Dodge Ramcharger SUV.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Legacy and Influence

The legacy of the Dodge D350 Regular Cab is intrinsically linked to the introduction of the Cummins turbo-diesel engine to the pickup truck market. This move not only revitalized Dodge’s position in the highly competitive truck segment but also set a new benchmark for diesel performance. The D350’s success proved the market’s appetite for powerful, torquey, and reliable diesel engines in consumer-grade trucks. This directly influenced competitors to develop more powerful turbocharged diesel engines of their own, sparking the diesel torque wars that continue to this day. The D350 cemented a reputation for Dodge as a builder of tough, no-compromise work trucks, a legacy that continues with the modern Ram brand. For many enthusiasts, the first-generation Cummins-powered Dodge D350 remains the definitive classic diesel workhorse.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Global Availability

The Dodge D350 Regular Cab was primarily manufactured and sold in North America, with its main markets being the United States and Canada. Assembly took place at Chrysler’s Warren Truck Assembly plant in Michigan. While some D-series trucks were assembled in other countries like Argentina and Brazil during their long history, the D350 with the Cummins engine was predominantly a North American vehicle. All models were produced as left-hand drive vehicles. Today, these trucks are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts globally, but they are most commonly found in the North American used vehicle market.

Dodge D350 Regular Cab Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Ownership costs for a Dodge D350 today are different from those of a new vehicle. The primary costs are related to maintenance, repairs, and fuel. For models equipped with the Cummins diesel, the engine itself is known for its longevity and reliability, often lasting over 500,000 miles with regular service. Routine maintenance like oil changes is crucial. However, other components of these aging trucks, such as transmissions, suspension, and body panels, will require attention. The simple mechanical nature of the D350, especially the 12-valve Cummins engine, means that many repairs are straightforward and can be performed by experienced home mechanics, which can help keep costs down. Parts availability is generally good, especially for the popular Cummins engine. Resale value for D350s, particularly rust-free, Cummins-powered models, has been appreciating in recent years.

Final Words about Dodge D350 Regular Cab

The Dodge D350 Regular Cab stands as a landmark vehicle in the history of American pickup trucks. While its design may seem dated by modern standards, its legacy is built on a foundation of pure, unadulterated capability. It was a truck designed for work, and it excelled at it. The partnership with Cummins transformed the D350 from a capable workhorse into a legendary towing machine, setting performance standards that its competitors would chase for years. For buyers today, the D350 represents a connection to a simpler era of truck design, where durability and power were paramount. It is not a truck for those seeking comfort or cutting-edge technology, but for those who need a reliable and immensely capable classic work truck, the Dodge D350, especially with a Cummins heart, remains an icon of resilience and strength.