Produced for just two years - 1978 and 1979 - Dodge's Li'l Red Express Truck looked like something out of Hot Rod magazine, not a bone stock vehicle you could buy off the Dodge dealer's showroom floor. And with its high-output 360 4-barrel V8, beefed-up Torqueflite automatic transmission, 3.55-geared Sure-Grip rear end and big rig-style exhaust roaring, it would rip down the quarter mile in the mid-15 second range. In other words, this pickup truck was the quickest accelerating American vehicle of its time, able to show its old-school taillights to the high-performance cars of the day, including the Corvette, Trans Am and Z28. Here we have an amazing example of Dodge's late-'70s muscle truck. Featured in Mopar magazine in the early '90s and with just one caring owner since 1980 and only 35,393 miles on the odometer, this Li'l Red Express must be seen to be believed. It is all original and in incredible condition top to bottom, front to back. Even the real wood trim on the body, which is usually dried out, is in fantastic condition. The body panels are arrow straight with even gaps and both the paint and chrome shine brilliantly. Note that the original gold door decals were removed by the previous owner, as he thought the truck had a cleaner look without them. We will order and reinstall correct door decals at no additional cost if the buyer prefers. Inside it is similarly impressive, with no rips on the original upholstery which features a pair of bucket seats and a center cushion with a fold-down armrest. The wood tone trim looks great and there are no cracks on the dash or door panels. Feature highlights include A/C, Rally gauges and an old-school aftermarket Blaupunkt AM/FM radio. Under the hood the 360 sports factory cold air induction (via dual ducts routed to the either side of the radiator), an 850-cfm Carter carb and chrome rocker covers/air cleaner lid. A set of headers was installed at some point, but as seen in the photos, the factory exhaust manifolds go with the truck. Out on the road, the Li'l Red Express is a kick to drive with its throaty exhaust and quick response. Lean into it and the factory-tweaked automatic downshifts crisply as the 360 digs in and puts you back in the seat. Power steering, a front anti-sway bar and power front disc brakes provided solid handling and braking performance. A blast to drive and something you typically won't see at your neighborhood Cars and Coffee, this head-turning truck presents a rare opportunity. Please call Carroll Street Auto at (603) 627-5595 for further information or to schedule time to view this dynamite Dodge. Financing is offered through our approved lender, trades are considered, and enclosed shipping can be arranged.
