A Seldom Seen Plymouth SUV: The 1975 Trail Duster

A seldom-seen model from a now-defunct brand known more for passenger cars and minivans than SUVs, the Trail Duster was Plymouth’s first and only SUV. That may help explain why so few were built during a seven-year run from 1974 to 1981.

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1975 Plymouth Trailduster - left front profile - featured

Like its better-known sibling, the Dodge Ramcharger, the Trail Duster was based on a shortened version of the Dodge D-100 pickup truck and was inspired by the runaway success of the similarly conceived Chevrolet K5 Blazer.

The reduced overall length made for easier maneuvering in tight spaces on- or off-road while allowing sufficient room for up to six adventurers in the spacious interior. Ford joined the party with the first full-size Bronco in 1978.

1,000 Miles in 20 Years

Said to be just one of 666 rear-wheel-drive Trail Dusters produced for the 1975 model year, this has to be one of the most original examples remaining. With just over 60,000 miles showing on the odometer and only three caring owners from new, it is in remarkable condition for a vehicle designed for rugged use. The current owner has had it for almost 20 years and says it has traveled at most 1,000 miles during that time.

Like most domestic offerings at the time, the long list of Trail Duster options included a variety of powertrain, comfort, and convenience additions for personal customization. The first owner of this one sticl with the basics, opting only for power steering, tinted glass, air conditioning, and an AM radio. They added a couple of extravagances, like two-tone paint and a removable steel top.

Another indulgence was skipping the standard six-cylinder engine in favor of a 318 cubic-inch V-8, offering a good compromise of added power and reasonable fuel economy. But that’s where the option selection comes to a halt.

Instead of the available automatic or four-speed manual transmission, this Plymouth Trail Duster is equipped with the standard three-speed manual and a column shifter, otherwise known as a three on the tree. And rather than the more common four-wheel drive, this one is an even rarer rear-wheel drive model.

Charming Simplicity

Its relatively low-spec setup are part of the charm, especially since this is such a well-preserved, honest example. The paint and exterior chrome trim are in remarkable condition for their age, down to the period white spoke wheels and aftermarket side exhaust pipes.

But the Plymouth Trail Duster’s interior is most impressive, with a virtually new, if appropriately utilitarian, appearance. The original rubber floor covering is in place, and the vinyl seats look like they’ve barely been used. The dashboard is free of cracks and houses full factory instrumentation.

With a Buy-It-Now price of $35,000, this rugged truck was an opportunity to own a unique vehicle. You’re unlikely to come across another one anytime soon.