Tow Truck: 1984 Dodge Rampage 2.2 5-Speed – SOLD!

October 10, 2023, Update – We confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

Peruse Craigslist car ads nationally daily; chances are you’ll find an interesting description. The second owner of this red 1984 Dodge Rampage 2.2 for sale, first spotted in September 2023 on Craigslist in Bristol, Tennessee, provides an incorrect justification for their car’s mileage.  The seller states that the original owner told him he towed their Rampage behind their RV and estimated that approximately 50K of the 127K were from that.  While the second owner believes the original owner’s explanation, we’re unconvinced.

To tow a vehicle without damage, its transmission must be in Neutral.  Correct us if we’re wrong, but odometers don’t work when a transmission is in Neutral.  That’s especially true in modern cars when the ignition is turned off.  This 1984 Dodge Rampage for sale might be old enough that the odometer works independently of the car’s key position, but we’re not convinced.  The odometer says 127K, and we believe all of the miles are from the car being driven.

That nuance aside, the professional respray featuring painted graphics, an extremely clean interior, and a detailed engine bay make this Rampage a compelling classic UTE, especially with an asking price of just under ten large.  This Dodge Rampage also features factory A/C, but you need to confirm with the seller whether the system works properly.

Last offered for $9,995, Classic.com, the analytics and search engine for the collector car market, confirms the ask is triple that of the current five-year sales results from this source.  By clicking on the green dots in the graph below, you can get a sense of what comparable examples sold for in the past rolling five years:

As a second data point, the  Collector Car Market Review Online Tool reveals the seller’s ask falls between this guide’s #2 Very Good” estimate of $7,200 and its #1 “Excellent” appraisal of $10,300 before factoring in a five percent premium for factory A/C.

In the early 1980s, the American automotive landscape was evolving rapidly. Fuel efficiency, compactness, and versatility were becoming increasingly important to consumers, and automakers were exploring innovative ways to meet these demands. Enter the 1984 Dodge Rampage 2.2, a vehicle that combines the utility of a pickup truck with the comfort and drivability of a compact car. This unique and quirky vehicle remains an icon of its era, offering a glimpse into the creative solutions automakers were exploring during a time of change in the industry.

The Dodge Rampage 2.2 was introduced in 1982 as part of the Chrysler Corporation’s ambitious plan to cater to a broad spectrum of customers. It was part of a quartet of vehicles, including its sibling, the Plymouth Scamp, and the more car-like Dodge Omni and Plymouth Horizon. The Rampage was the only pickup truck in the lineup, and it stood out with its distinctive design.

One of the most striking features of the Rampage was its compact size. Measuring just 175 inches in length, it was shorter than most contemporary pickups. This small footprint made it incredibly maneuverable and easy to drive in urban environments. The Rampage’s unibody construction, which it shared with the Omni and Horizon, contributed to its car-like handling and ride quality.

The heart of the 1984 Dodge Rampage 2.2 was its engine. As the name suggests, it was powered by a 2.2-liter inline-four engine. This engine, equipped with a carburetor, produced 96 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque. While not a powerhouse by any means, it provided adequate power for the Rampage’s intended purposes. The engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission as standard, with an optional three-speed automatic available for those who preferred an easier drive.

Despite its modest power output, the Rampage was designed to be practical and fuel-efficient. The Rampage delivered respectable mileage figures in an era when fuel economy was a major concern. This made it an attractive option for those who needed a vehicle for daily commuting or light hauling.

What set the 1984 Dodge Rampage 2.2 apart from other vehicles in its class was its innovative combination of a car-like cabin and a functional cargo bed. The Rampage featured a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for two passengers. The dashboard was straightforward and functional, with easy-to-read gauges and conveniently placed controls.

The real magic of the Rampage, however, lay in its cargo area. The rear bed could carry up to 1,145 pounds of payload, making it a practical choice for light-duty hauling tasks. The bed’s dimensions were well thought out, allowing it to accommodate a variety of cargo, from groceries to small pieces of furniture.

While the Rampage’s 2.2-liter engine might not have been a powerhouse, it delivered adequate performance for its intended purposes. The vehicle’s compact size and lightweight construction made it nimble and easy to maneuver, especially in tight spaces. The four-wheel independent suspension contributed to a comfortable ride, even when the bed was empty.

The manual transmission option offered a more engaging driving experience, allowing drivers to maximize the available power. However, the optional automatic transmission made the Rampage more accessible to a wider range of drivers, especially those who preferred the convenience of an automatic.

The 1984 Dodge Rampage 2.2 may not have been a massive sales success, but it left a lasting impression on the automotive world. Its innovative blend of compact car comfort and pickup truck utility was ahead of its time. In many ways, it foreshadowed the rise of the modern crossover and its versatility.

While the Rampage was discontinued after the 1984 model year, its influence can be seen in today’s car-based pickups and compact SUVs. These vehicles prioritize comfort, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability as much as the Rampage did nearly four decades ago.

Today, the 1984 Dodge Rampage 2.2 enjoys a cult following among automotive enthusiasts and collectors. Its quirky design and unique concept have made it a sought-after vehicle for those who appreciate its historical significance. Restored examples in good condition can fetch decent prices on the collector’s market.

Restoring a Rampage can be a rewarding project for those passionate about classic cars. While parts availability may be challenging, dedicated enthusiasts have formed communities and resources to help keep these vehicles on the road.

The 1984 Dodge Rampage 2.2 was a vehicle ahead of its time, offering a blend of practicality, versatility, and efficiency that is still relevant today. While it may not have been a commercial blockbuster during its production years, it left a lasting legacy in the automotive world. Its compact size, car-like handling, and innovative design continue to inspire and influence the vehicles we drive today. As a unique piece of automotive history, the Rampage holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors who recognize its significance in the ever-evolving landscape of the American automobile.

The Car Guys Review YouTube Channel features this vintage Dodge Rampage commercial:

This 1984 Dodge Rampage 2.2 for sale is a rare find, especially one that is in such clean, unmolested condition.  Knowing this Rampage for sale was once used as a tow vehicle, we would inspect the front undercarriage for signs of wear from that.

If you are serious about buying this Rampage 2.2, you can start the conversation by using the contact information provided by the seller in their Craigslist ad.  When you connect, please mention that you saw their Dodge Ute featured here on GuysWithRides.com. Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

Do you have a Dodge Rampage story to share?  If so, comment below and let us know!