The 1982 Dodge Rampage was a compact pickup truck that emerged during a period of increasing fuel efficiency demands. Produced for the 1982-1984 model years, it shared its front-wheel-drive platform with the Dodge Omni and Plymouth Horizon. Primarily offered in a single, well-equipped trim, its unique combination of a car-like ride with a small cargo bed made it a distinctive, albeit short-lived, offering in the automotive market. It stands out for its unusual crossover appeal.
The Good
The 1982 Dodge Rampage offered nimble performance and impressive fuel efficiency for its era, appealing to practical buyers. Its unique sporty coupe-meets-truck design evoked a sense of fun and individuality, while its surprisingly comfortable ride provided a touch of practicality for daily use.
The Bad
Potential buyers of the 1982 Dodge Rampage should be aware of common weaknesses such as rust, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels, and potential electrical gremlins. Transmission issues and aging suspension components are also frequent concerns that require careful inspection.
1982 Dodge Rampage: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1982 Dodge Rampage was primarily equipped with a 2.2-liter (135 cubic inch) inline-four engine. Some sources indicate an optional 1.7-liter engine was available early in its production run, though the 2.2L became the dominant choice.
- Horsepower: The 2.2-liter engine typically produced around 96 horsepower. The 1.7-liter engine would have offered a lower output, likely in the range of 70-75 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy was a strong suit for the Rampage. Depending on the engine and transmission, owners could expect figures in the ballpark of 24-28 MPG in the city and 30-35 MPG on the highway. These figures were competitive for the early 1980s.
- 0-60 Times: With the 2.2-liter engine, 0-60 mph acceleration was generally in the 11-13 second range, which was respectable for a compact vehicle of its time, especially one prioritizing fuel efficiency.
- Towing Capacity: As a compact utility vehicle with a unibody construction, the Dodge Rampage was not designed for significant towing. Its towing capacity was limited, typically around 1,000 lbs or less, suitable for very small trailers or utility purposes, not heavy loads.
- Trim-Level Features: The Rampage was generally offered in a single, relatively well-appointed trim level. Standard features often included front-wheel drive, independent front suspension, power front disc brakes, and rack-and-pinion steering. Many models came with amenities like a passenger-side visor vanity mirror, reclining bucket seats, carpeting, and a decent AM/FM radio. Optional features could include air conditioning, automatic transmission, power steering, and upgraded interior trim. The cargo bed itself featured a durable, often plastic-lined surface for utility.
1982 Dodge Rampage Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1982 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Rampage |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | - |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1982 Dodge Rampage Have?
The 1982 Dodge Rampage, like many vehicles from its era, has developed a reputation for certain recurring issues over time. One of the most significant concerns is rust. Due to the construction methods and materials of the early 1980s, the Rampage is prone to significant corrosion, particularly in the lower body panels, wheel wells, rocker arms, and around the rear bumper mounts. Vehicles from all model years (1982-1984) are susceptible, with northern climates and areas with heavy road salt usage exhibiting the worst effects.
Another common area of concern is the electrical system. Owners frequently report issues with the dashboard lights, turn signals, power windows (if equipped), and sometimes the starter or alternator. These can be attributed to aging wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, and failing relays and switches.
The transmission, particularly the automatic transmission, can be a source of trouble. Shifting issues, slippage, and eventual failure can occur, especially if the fluid has not been regularly maintained. Manual transmissions tend to be more robust.
The 2.2-liter engine, while generally considered sturdy for its time, can experience issues such as oil leaks, worn valve seals leading to oil consumption, and occasional carburetor problems or fuel delivery issues if equipped with one (later models saw fuel injection). Overheating can also be a problem if the cooling system components are not maintained.
Suspension components, including ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings, will naturally wear out over time, leading to poor handling and alignment issues. Brake systems, especially the disc/drum combination, can also require regular attention.
Regarding specific recalls, a search of NHTSA records for the 1982 Dodge Rampage might reveal safety-related campaigns from the time of manufacture, typically concerning issues like brake hoses, steering components, or potential fire hazards. However, due to its age, many of these recalls would have been addressed decades ago or are no longer applicable. Long-term reliability is highly dependent on the vehicle's maintenance history and the severity of prior rust damage. A well-maintained, rust-free example can still be a dependable vehicle, but finding one in such condition is increasingly rare.
Another common area of concern is the electrical system. Owners frequently report issues with the dashboard lights, turn signals, power windows (if equipped), and sometimes the starter or alternator. These can be attributed to aging wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, and failing relays and switches.
The transmission, particularly the automatic transmission, can be a source of trouble. Shifting issues, slippage, and eventual failure can occur, especially if the fluid has not been regularly maintained. Manual transmissions tend to be more robust.
The 2.2-liter engine, while generally considered sturdy for its time, can experience issues such as oil leaks, worn valve seals leading to oil consumption, and occasional carburetor problems or fuel delivery issues if equipped with one (later models saw fuel injection). Overheating can also be a problem if the cooling system components are not maintained.
Suspension components, including ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings, will naturally wear out over time, leading to poor handling and alignment issues. Brake systems, especially the disc/drum combination, can also require regular attention.
Regarding specific recalls, a search of NHTSA records for the 1982 Dodge Rampage might reveal safety-related campaigns from the time of manufacture, typically concerning issues like brake hoses, steering components, or potential fire hazards. However, due to its age, many of these recalls would have been addressed decades ago or are no longer applicable. Long-term reliability is highly dependent on the vehicle's maintenance history and the severity of prior rust damage. A well-maintained, rust-free example can still be a dependable vehicle, but finding one in such condition is increasingly rare.
How long will the 1982 Dodge Rampage last?
Estimating average mileage for a 1982 Dodge Rampage is challenging due to their rarity and the wide variation in how they were used and maintained. However, a well-maintained example that has been kept in a dry climate could reasonably be expected to reach or exceed 200,000 miles. More commonly, survivors will be found with mileage ranging from 100,000 to 150,000 miles, often with some significant component replacements along the way.
Long-term durability is largely dictated by its inherent weaknesses. The susceptibility to rust is the primary limiting factor; vehicles that have succumbed to severe corrosion often do not survive into the long term. However, the powertrain, particularly the 2.2-liter engine and manual transmissions, can be quite durable if properly serviced. The unibody construction, while contributing to its car-like ride, is also more prone to structural fatigue and rust than body-on-frame trucks. With diligent rust prevention and regular maintenance, the Rampage can offer many years of service, but it requires a commitment from the owner.
Long-term durability is largely dictated by its inherent weaknesses. The susceptibility to rust is the primary limiting factor; vehicles that have succumbed to severe corrosion often do not survive into the long term. However, the powertrain, particularly the 2.2-liter engine and manual transmissions, can be quite durable if properly serviced. The unibody construction, while contributing to its car-like ride, is also more prone to structural fatigue and rust than body-on-frame trucks. With diligent rust prevention and regular maintenance, the Rampage can offer many years of service, but it requires a commitment from the owner.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1982 Dodge Rampage, in line with the technology of its era, offered a fairly basic suite of features. The focus was on practicality and affordability rather than cutting-edge technology.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically consisted of an AM radio. An AM/FM radio was a common option, and some higher-spec models might have featured an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player, though this was less common. Speakers were usually limited to two, positioned in the dashboard or doors.
Driver-Assistance Features: True driver-assistance technologies as we know them today were virtually non-existent. Features that would be considered basic conveniences now, like power steering, were often optional. Power brakes were standard, typically a front disc and rear drum setup. The steering was rack-and-pinion, offering decent maneuverability. Cruise control was a rare, but available, option on some models.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included three-point seatbelts for the driver and passenger, a padded dashboard, and a collapsible steering column. Side-impact beams were not a standard feature in this era for this type of vehicle. Given its unibody construction and the safety standards of 1982, comprehensive crash-test ratings like those from the NHTSA or IIHS in their current forms were not conducted or published in the same detailed manner. Vehicles of this period generally performed poorly in modern crash tests. The Rampage did not have airbags. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) were also not available.
Optional Features: Beyond the entertainment upgrades, optional comfort and convenience features could include air conditioning, automatic transmission, a tilt steering wheel, and intermittent wipers. Some models might have offered upgraded interior materials or a tachometer.
Overall, the technological offerings of the 1982 Dodge Rampage were rudimentary, prioritizing functionality over advanced features or safety innovations.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically consisted of an AM radio. An AM/FM radio was a common option, and some higher-spec models might have featured an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player, though this was less common. Speakers were usually limited to two, positioned in the dashboard or doors.
Driver-Assistance Features: True driver-assistance technologies as we know them today were virtually non-existent. Features that would be considered basic conveniences now, like power steering, were often optional. Power brakes were standard, typically a front disc and rear drum setup. The steering was rack-and-pinion, offering decent maneuverability. Cruise control was a rare, but available, option on some models.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included three-point seatbelts for the driver and passenger, a padded dashboard, and a collapsible steering column. Side-impact beams were not a standard feature in this era for this type of vehicle. Given its unibody construction and the safety standards of 1982, comprehensive crash-test ratings like those from the NHTSA or IIHS in their current forms were not conducted or published in the same detailed manner. Vehicles of this period generally performed poorly in modern crash tests. The Rampage did not have airbags. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) were also not available.
Optional Features: Beyond the entertainment upgrades, optional comfort and convenience features could include air conditioning, automatic transmission, a tilt steering wheel, and intermittent wipers. Some models might have offered upgraded interior materials or a tachometer.
Overall, the technological offerings of the 1982 Dodge Rampage were rudimentary, prioritizing functionality over advanced features or safety innovations.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1982 Dodge Rampage Prices and Market Value
When new in 1982, the Dodge Rampage had a base price that hovered around $7,000 to $8,000, making it a reasonably affordable option for a compact utility vehicle. Due to its unique niche and the passage of time, depreciation has been significant, as is typical for most vehicles of this vintage.
Current used market prices for a 1982 Dodge Rampage vary dramatically based on condition, mileage, and originality. Project vehicles or those needing extensive work might be found for a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars. Nicer, well-maintained examples, especially those with low mileage and minimal rust, can command anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000, with exceptionally pristine or rare examples potentially exceeding this. Factors affecting resale value include the presence of rust (the biggest detractor), the operational status of the engine and transmission, the interior condition, and the availability of original documentation. Its cult following among collectors of unique Mopar vehicles can also influence its value.
Current used market prices for a 1982 Dodge Rampage vary dramatically based on condition, mileage, and originality. Project vehicles or those needing extensive work might be found for a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars. Nicer, well-maintained examples, especially those with low mileage and minimal rust, can command anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000, with exceptionally pristine or rare examples potentially exceeding this. Factors affecting resale value include the presence of rust (the biggest detractor), the operational status of the engine and transmission, the interior condition, and the availability of original documentation. Its cult following among collectors of unique Mopar vehicles can also influence its value.
1982 Dodge Rampage Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1982 Dodge Rampage can be quite economical if you're vigilant. Insurance costs are generally low due to its age and value, often falling into the classic or collector car category. Fuel costs are also modest thanks to its efficient 2.2-liter engine, offering good MPG. Maintenance costs can be reasonable if you can perform some work yourself, as many parts are shared with common Chrysler K-platform vehicles. However, repair costs can escalate if rust damage is extensive or if specialized parts become hard to find. Overall, it's an economical vehicle to own, provided you anticipate and address potential issues like rust and aging electrical components proactively.
1982 Dodge Rampage Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
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Fuel Capacity
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City Mileage
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Highway Mileage
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1982 Dodge Rampage Insurance
Insurance for a 1982 Dodge Rampage is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1982 Dodge Rampage Compare to Other Vehicle?
The 1982 Dodge Rampage occupied a unique space, making direct comparisons challenging. Its closest rivals were not traditional trucks but rather compact cars with utility or small utility vehicles.
Performance: Compared to contemporaries like the Ford Ranger or Chevrolet S-10 (which were body-on-frame trucks), the Rampage offered a more car-like ride and handling due to its front-wheel-drive, unibody construction. Its 2.2-liter engine provided adequate, but not exceptional, acceleration, often better than smaller 4-cylinder options in competing cars. However, it lagged behind more powerful traditional trucks in terms of raw power and load-carrying capability.
Features: In terms of features, the Rampage was reasonably equipped for its price point, often offering power steering and a decent stereo as options. Traditional trucks like the Ranger and S-10 might have offered more rugged, utilitarian features and more robust options for heavier work. Compact cars of the era often had similar basic comfort features.
Reliability: Reliability is a mixed bag. The 2.2L engine is generally considered robust, but the Rampage suffers from common early 80s Chrysler issues like electrical gremlins and significant rust potential, which can impact long-term reliability more than many competing vehicles. Traditional trucks often had simpler, more robust mechanicals but also had their own issues.
Price: The Rampage was competitively priced when new, aiming for affordability. Used, its price is driven by rarity and condition rather than market demand for utility.
Alternatives:
Performance: Compared to contemporaries like the Ford Ranger or Chevrolet S-10 (which were body-on-frame trucks), the Rampage offered a more car-like ride and handling due to its front-wheel-drive, unibody construction. Its 2.2-liter engine provided adequate, but not exceptional, acceleration, often better than smaller 4-cylinder options in competing cars. However, it lagged behind more powerful traditional trucks in terms of raw power and load-carrying capability.
Features: In terms of features, the Rampage was reasonably equipped for its price point, often offering power steering and a decent stereo as options. Traditional trucks like the Ranger and S-10 might have offered more rugged, utilitarian features and more robust options for heavier work. Compact cars of the era often had similar basic comfort features.
Reliability: Reliability is a mixed bag. The 2.2L engine is generally considered robust, but the Rampage suffers from common early 80s Chrysler issues like electrical gremlins and significant rust potential, which can impact long-term reliability more than many competing vehicles. Traditional trucks often had simpler, more robust mechanicals but also had their own issues.
Price: The Rampage was competitively priced when new, aiming for affordability. Used, its price is driven by rarity and condition rather than market demand for utility.
Alternatives:
- For utility and a more traditional truck experience: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Nissan Hardbody. These offer better payload and towing but a harsher ride and less fuel efficiency.
- For a similar car-like utility feel (though different execution): Volkswagen Rabbit Pickup (Caddy). Shares the compact, FWD, car-based utility concept.
- For compact efficiency and a car-like drive: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort. These offer similar fuel economy and handling but lack any cargo bed.
Final Verdict: Is the 1982 Dodge Rampage a Good Vehicle?
The 1982 Dodge Rampage is ideal for automotive enthusiasts who appreciate quirky, unique vehicles with a blend of car-like comfort and compact utility. It's best suited for those seeking a fun, distinctive cruiser for light hauling or weekend projects, rather than a daily workhorse.
Whether it's worth buying largely depends on the specific vehicle and the buyer's expectations. As a used purchase, it's crucial to find one with minimal rust, as this is the most significant long-term concern. A well-maintained, original example is a much better investment than a project car unless you have significant restoration experience. There are no distinct trims to recommend over others as it was largely a single offering. For collectors or those wanting a unique Mopar from the early 80s with character, a good Rampage can be a worthwhile acquisition. For buyers prioritizing practicality, reliability, and modern features, there are likely better alternatives.
Whether it's worth buying largely depends on the specific vehicle and the buyer's expectations. As a used purchase, it's crucial to find one with minimal rust, as this is the most significant long-term concern. A well-maintained, original example is a much better investment than a project car unless you have significant restoration experience. There are no distinct trims to recommend over others as it was largely a single offering. For collectors or those wanting a unique Mopar from the early 80s with character, a good Rampage can be a worthwhile acquisition. For buyers prioritizing practicality, reliability, and modern features, there are likely better alternatives.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.