18 Pickup Trucks So Rare, You May Never See Them In Person

From the Ford Durango to the Plymouth PT 57, we’re covering 18 extremely rare pickup trucks, as well as their unique stories.

Christen da Costa Avatar
Christen da Costa Avatar

By

Our editorial process is built on human expertise, ensuring that every article is reliable and trustworthy. AI helps us shape our content to be as accurate and engaging as possible.
Learn more about our commitment to integrity in our Code of Ethics.

Image: Gadget Review

Pickup trucks have always had a unique charm, especially the rare ones with stories that go beyond their utility. In this lineup, we’re diving into 18 of the rarest pickup trucks out there—each one an engineering marvel with a history that’s anything but ordinary. From Ford’s limited-edition Durango to the classic elegance of the Plymouth PT 57, these aren’t just trucks; they’re pieces of automotive history begging to be rediscovered.

18. Ford Durango: A Limited Edition Marvel – Exterior

Image: TheDrive.com

Produced between 1979 and 1982, the Ford Durango is a rare blend of coupe and utility vehicle, crafted to rival the Chevrolet El Camino. Built on a Ford Fairmont Futura base, its fiberglass cargo bed and hand-built design make it a collector’s dream, with only around 200 to 350 units ever made.

Ford Durango – Interior

Image: Classiccars.com

The Durango embodies Ford’s late-70s innovation, a project helmed by Jim Stevenson and his sons, in partnership with National Coach Works. Though production ceased with Stevenson’s passing, the Durango’s unique legacy endures in just over 200 surviving units.

17. Powell Pickup Truck: The Sport Wagon – Exterior

Image: Barn Finds

Built by Powell Manufacturing in the 1950s, the Powell Pickup (or Sport Wagon) holds a unique place in truck history. Assembled from refurbished Plymouth sedan parts, each Powell Pickup is a one-of-a-kind creation with steel bodies, fiberglass fronts, and even oak bumpers in early models.

Powell Pickup Truck – Interior

Image: Barn Finds

Only about 1,000 were produced before Powell faced bankruptcy in 1957, cementing the Powell Pickup as a rare and distinctive piece for collectors.

16. 1938 Plymouth PT 57: A Classic Beauty – Exterior

Image: Hotrodcollection.com

With its rounded fenders and unmistakable 1930s aesthetic, the 1938 Plymouth PT 57 is as stylish as it is functional. Sporting an inline-6 engine with up to 85 horsepower, this all-steel beauty was a trailblazer in both design and durability.

1938 Plymouth PT 57 – Interior

Image: Hotrodcollection.com

Its rarity and elegant lines make it a must-have for classic truck enthusiasts, embodying the resilient spirit of 1930s America.

15. 1939 Studebaker L5 Coupe Express: A Unique Hybrid – Exterior

An intriguing blend of car and truck, the 1939 Studebaker L5 Coupe Express drew from the sleek design cues of the Studebaker Commander, combining the best elements of both styles. With only 1,200 units produced, this model remains a rare treasure for automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike. Under the hood, it featured a six-cylinder engine with an optional overdrive, enhancing both power and efficiency—innovative for its time.

1939 Studebaker L5 Coupe Express – Interior

Image: Hyman LTD

However, despite its forward-thinking design, slow sales ultimately led to its discontinuation, rendering the L5 Coupe Express a unique yet elusive piece of Studebaker’s legacy and a fascinating milestone in automotive history.

14. Chevy Big 10: A Heavy-Duty Classic – Exterior

Image: Classiccarsliquidators.com

Built from 1975 to 1980, the Chevy Big 10 stands out with its heavy-duty specs and robust engine options. Exempt from catalytic converter requirements, this truck catered to those who needed a workhorse on wheels.

Chevy Big 10 – Interior

Image: Classiccarsliquidators.com

Only 5,726 short-bed Big Blocks were produced, making it a hard-to-find classic prized for its power and endurance.

13. 1961 Ford Unibody Pickup: A Bold Experiment – Exterior

Image: Classiccarsliquidators.com

Ford’s 1961 Unibody Pickup featured a single-piece cab and bed design, maximizing cargo space. This innovative approach didn’t last, as Ford reverted to traditional designs by 1964 due to structural concerns under heavy loads.

1961 Ford Unibody Pickup – Interior

Image: Classiccarsliquidators.com

The limited production run and distinct design make the Unibody Pickup a sought-after collector’s item. It is valued for its unique place in truck engineering history and its daring departure from tradition.

12. 1937 Hudson Terraplane Pickup: A Forgotten Classic – Exterior

Image: Pinterest Jalopy Journal

With its sleek design and sturdy construction, the 1937 Hudson Terraplane Pickup was a hit during its brief production. Its transformation from passenger car to truck captured the era’s spirit of resilience, though the Terraplane brand was phased out in 1938.

1937 Hudson Terraplane Pickup – Interior

Image: Hemmings

Today, the 1937 Terraplane Pickup is highly sought after by collectors, admired not only for its striking design but also for its significance in Hudson’s history as a unique blend of form and function.

11. 1952 International L120 Pickup: A True Workhorse – Exterior

Image: Grautogallery.com

Part of International Harvester’s iconic L series, the 1952 L120 is famed for its ruggedness. Designed to withstand heavy loads, this model is known for its reliability, even if its design didn’t gain the same acclaim as some competitors.

1952 International L120 Pickup – Interior

Image: Grautogallery.com

The emphasis on durability over aesthetics made it a trusted workhorse on farms and construction sites alike. Today, the 1952 L120 is a collector’s gem, celebrated not only for its endurance but also for its role in International Harvester’s legacy of dependable, hardworking vehicles.

10. 1988 Nissan Hardbody Desert Runner: An Off-Road Beast – Exterior

Image: AutoTrader

Celebrating Nissan’s off-road racing legacy, the 1988 Desert Runner boasts a powerful V6 engine, rugged tires, and robust bumpers. With only about 1,000 produced, this model is a rare off-road star.

1988 Nissan Hardbody Desert Runner – Interior

Image: Motor Trend

While not suited for everyday driving due to its specialized build, the Desert Runner’s rugged design and rarity make it a prized possession among collectors and off-road aficionados. Its unique blend of power and durability captures Nissan’s commitment to adventure, solidifying its place as an off-road icon.

9. 1968 Ford F250: A Reliable Workhorse – Exterior

Image: Metrommp.com

Built for durability, the 1968 F250 epitomizes Ford’s commitment to reliable, heavy-duty trucks. Known for its powerful engine options, the F250 managed to endure tough conditions despite some reported engine issues.

1968 Ford F250 – Interior

Image: Velocity Restorations

Today, this model represents the golden age of Ford’s rugged trucks. Collectors admire it for its lasting impact on the heavy-duty truck market and its timeless, utilitarian design.

8. Tempo Matador: A Unique European Truck – Exterior

Image: Limebug.com

The Tempo Matador was a groundbreaking front-wheel-drive truck that made its debut in post-war Germany, showcasing a remarkable balance of compactness and functionality. With its unmatched maneuverability and space efficiency, the Matador redefined commercial vehicles of its time, standing out for its innovative design. However, it encountered stiff competition, particularly from Volkswagen’s popular models, which ultimately curtailed its production and market impact.

Tempo Matador – Interior

Image: Wikimediacommons

While it may no longer roam the roads, the Matador is cherished by collectors. It embodies the spirit of German engineering ambition and the era’s drive for inventive utility solutions.

7. Ford Sky Ranger: A Convertible Pickup – Exterior

Image: r/spotted

The Ford Sky Ranger, one of the rarest entries in Ford’s lineup, is a standout with its convertible extended cab and V6 engine—a design concept far ahead of its time. Released in limited numbers with only 17 units produced, the Sky Ranger offered a blend of open-air driving and utility that was virtually unheard of in pickup trucks. While its unconventional style ultimately led to commercial failure, its scarcity and innovative approach have made it highly sought after by collectors today.

Ford Sky Ranger – Interior

Image: r/spotted

The Sky Ranger’s unique combination of convertible fun and practicality has solidified its place as a rare and intriguing piece in Ford’s automotive legacy, cherished for both its novelty and exclusivity.

6. International Harvester K-Series: A Rugged Classic – Exterior

Image: Vintagecarcollector.com

Introduced in the early ’40s, the International Harvester K-Series trucks were built to tackle the toughest jobs, offering an affordable, durable option for heavy-duty tasks. With a robust design and powerful engine choices, the K-Series became a trusted vehicle on farms, in factories, and on construction sites across the country. Though often overshadowed by more iconic brands, the K-Series holds a unique charm with its unassuming yet reliable character, capturing the essence of hard work and resilience that defined the era.

International Harvester K-Series – Interior

Image: Vintagecarcollector.com

These trucks are rare gems, treasured by collectors not only for their nostalgic appeal but also for their testament to International Harvester’s commitment to quality and longevity in utility vehicles.

5. 1952 Mercedes-Benz 170 Pickup: A Hidden Gem – Exterior

Image: Cars.co.za

While modest in appearance, the 1952 Mercedes-Benz 170 pickup captures a compelling piece of automotive history. Built on the reliable foundation of the Mercedes-Benz 170 sedan, this pickup offered a blend of practicality and subtle elegance. It was designed to meet the needs of post-war Europe, where utility and reliability were paramount. With limited production numbers and a low-key release, the 170 Pickup has since become an elusive treasure for collectors.

1952 Mercedes-Benz 170 Pickup – Interior

Image: Cars.co.za

Vintage truck enthusiasts prize it not only for its sturdy build and dependable engineering but also for its understated style, which reflects Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to quality even in its more utilitarian models. Today, it stands as a unique and rare find, embodying both resilience and refined simplicity in an era of recovery and growth.

4. 1955 Chevrolet Apache: A Classic Icon – Exterior

Image: MotorTrade

Part of Chevrolet’s iconic Task Force Series, the 1955 Apache stands out for its bold styling, featuring smooth lines, a distinctive grille, and a hint of aggression in its design. Under the hood, Chevy offered powerful engine options, including a V8, which was a game-changer for pickup performance and set new standards for power and capability in trucks.

1955 Chevrolet Apache: A Classic Icon – Interior

Image: Classic Cars of Sarasota

Produced only for a short period, the Apache has since become a highly sought-after classic, admired for its unique balance of style and strength. This model captures a pivotal moment in Chevy’s truck legacy, reflecting the brand’s shift toward more modern, versatile vehicles that would appeal to both work and leisure markets.

3. GMC Sonoma GT: A Rare Sport Truck – Exterior

Image: HardCoreGarage

Introduced in 1992, the GMC Sonoma GT brought a sporty edge to the compact pickup market, boasting a distinctive body kit and a robust V6 engine that set it apart from typical trucks of its size. Its bold styling and enhanced performance features appealed to drivers looking for a blend of practicality and sportiness, though its production was short-lived.

GMC Sonoma GT: A Rare Sport Truck – Interior

Image: SyTy Registry

The Sonoma GT’s limited run and unique design make it a rare collectible in the sport truck segment and it is admired for its spirited performance and distinctive style.

2. 1971 Ford Ranchero GT: A Classic Utility Vehicle – Exterior

Image: HotCars

Blending muscle car allure with truck utility, the 1971 Ford Ranchero GT quickly gained popularity for its performance and striking design. Equipped with powerful engine options, it embodied the spirit of the muscle car era in a versatile truck format.

1971 Ford Ranchero GT: A Classic Utility Vehicle – Interior

Image: MotorTrend

Its rarity enhances its appeal, making it a prized addition for collectors who value both style and power in classic vehicles.

1. 1958 Willys Jeep Pickup: A True Workhorse – Exterior

Image: Classic.com

The 1958 Willys Jeep Pickup, known for its rugged reliability, was designed to handle challenging terrain with ease. Featuring four-wheel drive and a sturdy build, it emphasized function over flash, embodying a straightforward, durable design.

1958 Willys Jeep Pickup: A True Workhorse – Interior

Image: Beverly Hills Car Club

It’s beloved by vintage truck collectors as a symbol of the era’s commitment to tough, no-nonsense engineering.

Share this Article



About Gadget Review’s Editorial Process

At Gadget Review, our guides, reviews, and news are driven by thorough human expertise and use our Trust Rating system and the True Score. AI assists in refining our editorial process, ensuring that every article is engaging, clear and succinct. See how we write our content here →