FAST

FACTS

The compact pickup model shown here has a “Forward Control” design, and was built to compete with the Ford Econoline and VW Type 2 Bus. The engine sits between the driver and passenger
The A100 saved the Dodge truck line from extinction. A letter from Daimler Chrysler Corp revealed that, in the early 60’s, Chrysler management made an agreement to drop out of the truck market entirely if the A100 wasn’t a success. Thanks to strong sales, Dodge continued producing trucks
When released in 1964, these trucks featured alternators. This was unusual for a truck at the time, as most used generators. Another unusual feature was an oil-bath air cleaner – an item that had been almost completely phased out by this time
The A100 was offered with the only heavy-duty 3-speed manual transmission in the compact truck field. Putting the shifter on the column (earning the nickname “3 on the tree”) saved valuable interior space over a floor shifter
These trucks came with bigger brakes (by far) and a bigger gas tank (21 gallons) than any other compact truck available at the time
The first ever exhibition act of “wheelstanding” used a Dodge A100 driven by Bill “Maverick” Golden. Dodge, who sponsored Bill’s racing efforts, supplied Bill with an A100 powered by a supercharged, nitro-injected 426 Hemi (placed in the rear). While it broke the record for the A/Factory Experimental class, the truck nearly flipped over backwards during testing. With an almost unavoidable tendency to perform a wheelie during launch, the “Little Red Wagon” (as it was named) became a hit with the crowds. Bill eventually used the truck solely as an exhibition vehicle, and unintentionally ignited the art of “wheelstanding” that lasted for many decades

Key Model Year Changes:

1966: The 273ci V8 becomes available. Curb weight goes up by 140 lbs
1967: the 273ci is replaced by the 318. ’67 cars also receive a dual master cylinder brake system, dashboard safety padding, and sun visors. A newly available “Custom” package adds rear quarter windows, chrome hubcaps, a cigar lighter, and misc. interior trim pieces. The rear quarter windows could be had as a standalone option
Later models receive more powerful alternators and higher front/rear axle load ratings
1970 models receive a new, fully synchronized 3spd manual transmission. The 170ci base engine is replaced by a new 198ci engine
The A100 was produced from 1964 to 1970, and was replaced by the B-van

Specs:

Slant Six (170ci/225ci) or V8 (283ci V8/318ci)	3spd Manual or Auto
140 hp @ 3900 RPM (225ci Slant 6)	215 ft/lbs @ 1600 RPM
0-60 MPH: 15 seconds	Top Speed: 70 mph
Base Price in 1966:	$1,945