Just when I thought I was past the RWD converted Mopar thing, I find this little Plymouth Scamp on eBay. It’s black, overall it’s clean enough for a driver, and it’s checking all the right boxes for me. Then I notice that the wheels have just a touch more dish than they should and check the photos and I’m rewarded with a stick and man pedal, followed up by a 360 V8. It’s smaller than a mini-truck and can haul more than just ass? Ok, it’s worthy.
The Scamp and it’s corporate twin, the Dodge Rampage, were the smallest utes sold from the Big Three. While the Ranchero and El Camino were based off of full-framed RWD platforms, Mopar’s offering was decidedly more…um…well, smaller. Based off of the Dodge Omni platform, the trucks sold from 1982-1984. Using 2.2L four cylinders and front-wheel drive, the were useable, with a capacity only 100 pounds less than a comparable El Camino. The front-wheel drive also eliminated the worry about an unladen truck losing traction and fishtailing when driven in inclement weather. Well, where’s the fun in that?
There is a bit to do still, mostly some detail work, some wiring cleanup and a set of matching wheels wouldn’t hurt either. But considering all of the hard part is done, it’s worth investigating. Provided the engineering work underneath is solid, this would be a fun little tire fryer.
CLICK HERE to see the Scamp’s eBay listing!
That’s pretty awesome! If the suspension is set up right, it would really make a fun handling and driving car.
That’s pretty cool. Interesting approach to the engine compartment. What’s going on with the gas pedal in the interior shot?
Big bonus points for the four-speed, a few points deducted for diamondplate and wheel choice.
Best E-Bay find ever! Man this makes me miss my Rampage. I wonder if the seller would consider a trade for a 74 Matador coupe…Well I guess that question kinda answers itself doesn’t it. Why must I perpetually be so broke?
Back in the early 90’s, a guy did a Rampage with a 425 setup out of a Toronado. Guess where the engine was placed!
Yep!
That would be an amazing project to see!
That’s a bitchin little truck, but look at that smooshed air cleaner!!! How many horses are lost because the poor 360 can’t breathe?!