Best Trucks Ever in Weber County
We've given our opinion on the
best performance cars of 2015, now it is time for trucks. This list is just an opinion, so let us know what you think.
2003-2006 Jeep Wrangler (TJ) Rubicon
The TJ was smaller and nimbler than today's Wrangler, but represents the highpoint in Jeep off-road capabilities with its coil-link suspension. It boasted a 4.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that lifted up hard, narrow trails with ease. The long-wheelbase Unlimited models released from 2004 to 2006 were the precursors of today's four-door Unlimited models. The Rubicon package included Dana 44 axles in front and rear with electronic locking differentials, 31-inch Goodyear mud tires, and an ultra-low gearing in its transfer case.
1978-1979 Dodge Li'l Red Express
Sporting 18-wheeler exhaust stacks, the Li'l Red Express was part of Dodge's Adult Toys truck lineup in the late '70s. In 1978, this truck was quicker to 100 mph than any other vehicle. The engineers tweaked a 360 cid V-8 normally used for police duty, and the result was 225 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque- better specs than the best Corvette of that year. The 1978 version did not have the catalytic converter, though the 1979 catalytic model lost nothing in performance nor popularity.
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1971-1980 International Scout II
International's Harvester Scout was one of the most popular 4WD vehicles in the '60s and '70s, but the second generation's larger and more modern models attract enthusiasts today. The Scout II was heavy and versatile, designed to tackle any task assigned to it. The Dana 44 axle came standard after 1974, along with disc brakes, making the later years more popular. Options included either a 304 cid V-8 or a hefty 345 cid V-8. After 1976, roomier options were available in the Traveler SUV or Terra pickup versions with 18-inch wheelbase.
1993-1995 Ford Lightning
Ford launched the Lightning in direct response to the success of Chevy's 454 SS, but they responded with heavy fire-power. Tuned by the Special Vehicles Team, this high-performance truck sported a modified 5.8-liter small block V-8 that produced 240 hp and 340 lb-ft of torque. They lowered the suspension, and added new shocks, springs, anti-roll bars, and 17-inch tires for a vehicle that outhandled its Chevy competitor. Although only 11,000 of this first generation of Lightnings was produced, its popularity forced Ford to recommission the model in 1999.
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1978-1980 Ford Bronco
In the 1970s, the Chevy Blazer and Dodge Ramcharger SUVs were based on full-sized pickups, but the Ford Bronco retained its small stature until 1978. That year, it switched to the F-150 chassis and offered the option of a brawny 460 cid V-8 engine. In 1981, Ford decided to alter the design again, removing the Dana 44 solid front axle, making it less capable off-road. As a result, these first three years of the big Bronco represent the cream of the crop.
1989-1993 Dodge Power Ram W-250/350 Cummins Turbo Diesel
Chevy and Ford dominated the heavy-duty pickup market until this Dodge Power Ram with a Cummins turbo diesel came along. At the time, Cummins had stronger name recognition than the Dodge Ram for durability and longevity. Now Dodge had entered the ring. The Power Ram Cummins six-cylinder made more torque at 400 lb-ft. than its competitors, and started the torque war between Ford and GM that continues today.
1981-1985 Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler
Wanting to compete in the compact pick-up market, Jeep briefly entered with the CJ-8 Scrambler. To this day, Jeep's online forums are a-buzz with pining for a return of the Jeep pick-up. Jeep took its CJ-7, stretched the wheelbase by 10 inches and lengthened the body to be more pick-up-like. Their longer wheelbase made for a smoother ride than the regular CJs. Because less than 30,000 were ever built, their rarity is causing a surge in their popularity.
1999-2007 Ford Super Duty
The Super Duty's introduction in 1999 changed the heavy-duty truck market forever. Before then, folks had to modify their light-duty trucks for heavy work. No more. The Super Duty represented a full line of heavy lifters for the work crowd and recreational towers that left the regular F-150 for milder work. Its engines were Super Duty indeed, coming in three choices: a 6.8-liter gasoline V-10, a 5.4-liter V-8, or a 7.3-liter turbodiesel with an impressive 500 lb-ft of torque. Its side mirrors were manually telescoping, allowing for extra visibility when towing. The Super Duty allowed Ford to capture the heavy-duty market, which it still dominates today.
Get Synthetic Oil for Your Truck in Weber County
Call your local
AMSOIL Dealer in Weber County,
SOS Sales, at
(801) 773-2175 or shop for yourself at
our online store. We offer the full litany of automotive needs from synthetic motor oils and transmission fluids to filters and fuel additives.