In 1974, Plymouth launched its full-sized SUV. This was built on a Dodge Ramcharger and focused on durability rather than performance. The vehicle had amazing potential off-road. Here is everything about the 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster 318.
Rugged Engines
Plymouth Trail Duster 318 was an SUV and off-road vehicle more than a road car. It was the primary vehicle of businesses. The engineering was done in that way focusing on its endurance. Built around Chrysler LA-series 5.2L V8 engines, this vehicle delivered a top speed of 105mph. Though it was not a fast vehicle, the towing pull was incredible because of its technology. It was a vehicle that could go through forests, snow plains, beaches, and deserts.
Technology
Built around the best technology, Trail Duster 318 delivered insane performances. The mechanics for the vehicle were 4WD system, power brakes, 3-speed transmission, and limited-slip differential. As it was an SUV, the ground clearance was massive. The interior features focused on comfort. It had vinyl bench seats, speedometer, radio, and dashboard. This was a body-on-frame construction model with advanced suspension, drivetrain, and internal components.
Towing Pull
Being an SUV, it had great endurance. Plymouth launched this as a truck rather than a car. It was made on strong chassis with low torque and high towing. It shared the platform with Dodge Ramcharger. The Chrysler V8 engine enhanced the perfomance. The solid axles in both ends increased the capability in off-road. Drawbacks were fuel consumption, speed, and luxury features.
Designs
Trail Duster 318 was a classic truck. It didn’t have designs of an aggressive muscle car. Plymouth focused on boxy styling with simple and clean designs. It was a square body with a long hood and wide stance. In the front, Plymouth placed a badge with a rectangular grille. The rounded beam headlights were attached to the bumper. In the rear part, Plymouth incorporated vertical taillights, tailgate doors, and bumpers.
Focus on Durability
Any SUV vehicle launched as a truck would focus on endurance. The Trail Duster 318 was never a high-speed vehicle. Plymouth constructed it with steel parts and strong panels with rugged engines. The plan was to make the vehicle last long. Though the fuel consumption was poor, the vehicle lasted long because of its engines. It didn’t have comfortable features, but the basic features like speedometer, warning lights, and fuel gauges were added.
Commercially Successful
Plymouth Trail Duster 318 became a successful vehicle. Every year, it sold more than 15,000 units on average. The price of the truck was $4,500 USD. Some models were higher than this as the engines were great. After a few years, the vehicle lost its market and this led to the downfall. Plymouth launched more SUVs as a replacement to this vehicle. Though it was not sold in large numbers, the vehicle is collectible today as many units were bought by collector market owners.