By Jeff Glucker
We all have the same rant. Trucks are too big and far too expensive these days. When a $30,000 Ford Maverick feels like a breath of fresh air, you know things have gone more than sideways. That’s not a dig on the Maverick as I truly enjoy that little thing, but more a comment on the state of… everything. That’s probably why this particular little rig caught my eye this morning. Feast your eyes on all the truck you really need; a 1981 Toyota Pickup.
The seller says it still has its original 22R inline four-cylinder engine and manual gearbox. With 143,000 miles on the odometer, it likely has plenty of life left. This one has also just had its carb rebuilt and passed smog, which is a nice bonus, of course.
My favorite part? The PALOMA badge on the back. This truck has a name, which means it likely also has sentimental value to the seller. Plus, who doesn’t love a good Paloma?
It’s for sale on Craigslist with an asking price of $7,499. A few years ago, I would laugh at the for being too high. Now, it feels like anything under $10k is a steal…
Here I am trying to determine freight charges from Los Angeles to the Midwest…
Seriously, that’s exactly the type of truck I’d want. Give me that and a Volvo 240 wagon, and I’m set for life.
By mentioning the midwest the poor little truck got scared and has popped a rust pimple on the right rear bed corner.
Seriously though, This would be a nice truck for a small midwestern farmette for bopping around in.
This 1981 Toyota Pickup is a true gem! Its clean lines and classic design are a refreshing sight amidst today’s oversized trucks. Reading about it took me back to simpler times when vehicles were built for durability and function.