1984 Dodge Rampage – Sold?

June 14, 2021 Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call Rudy directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

Chrysler’s monumental turnaround in the early 1980s was largely due to Lee Iaccoca’s strategy to offer as many K-Car variants as possible to keep costs low.  This 1984 Dodge Rampage originally listed in May 2021 on Craigslist in Denver, North Carolina (Charlotte) for $6,000 is a prime example.  Reported to feature fresh paint, new wheels, and tires, a quick check of the Collector Car Market Review confirms the seller’s asking price falls between this guide’s #2 “Very Good” estimate of $4,700 and its #1 “Excellent” appraisal of $7,100.

Produced only three model years (1982 through 1984), the Dodge Rampage was a stylish coupe utility (“UTE”) based on Chrysler’s compact L-Body front-wheel-drive platform shared with the Dodge Omni 024/Charger hatchback.  The Rampage borrowed the car’s unibody construction and the front fascia from the sporty 024/Charger. Rampages relied on the front suspension from the Omni/Horizon with coil struts and a link-less sway bar upfront; a beam axle supported by leaf springs supported the bed.  Available initially with only the ubiquitous Chrysler built and designed 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder producing only 96 horsepower connected to either a four-speed manual or three-speed automatic, performance was leisurely at best.

We like these Rampages as they not only make a more stylish alternative to Volkswagen’s Rabbit Caddy, the variety of performance parts to hop up the 2.2-liter (this engine came with a turbocharged variant and Carroll Shelby’s company developed a lot of performance parts as well) make this freshly painted UTE a potential sleeper. The fresh paint offsets what is likely a cracked dash hidden below a black cloth covering.  Otherwise, this Rampage is a great, inexpensive way to play with a classic car, especially as it’s RADwood eligible.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1984 Dodge Rampage Pickup
New Paint, tires, and wheels
Some new interior work
4 cylinder Chrysler fuel-injected engine installed”

Further Upgrade or Drive As-Is: What would you do with this Dodge Rampage?  Comment below and let us know!