Introduction:
In the automotive industry, collaborations between different manufacturers have resulted in unique and diverse vehicles being produced. One such example is the Dodge-badged Mitsubishi Forte pickup, which was available in the United States from the late 1970s through the mid-1990s. This article will explore the history of this small pickup, its specifications, and its ultimate fate in a Colorado car graveyard.
Subtitles:
1. The Chrysler-Mitsubishi Partnership
2. The Evolution of the Dodge D-50 and Ram 50
3. Competition with Mitsubishi
4. Specifications and Features
5. The Sad End in a Colorado Car Graveyard
The Chrysler-Mitsubishi Partnership
The first Chrysler-imported Mitsubishi Fortes, known as the Dodge D-50 and Plymouth Arrow, arrived in the United States as 1979 models. The Dodge D-50 was later rebranded as the Ram 50 for the 1981 model year, while Plymouth Arrow trucks were sold through 1982. This partnership allowed Chrysler to enter the small pickup truck market with vehicles manufactured by Mitsubishi.
The Evolution of the Dodge D-50 and Ram 50
The Dodge D-50 and subsequent Ram 50 were powered by Mitsubishi engines and offered reliable performance. The base model came with a 2.0-liter SOHC straight-four engine producing 88 horsepower and 108 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, a 2.3-liter Mitsubishi diesel engine was available for a period before being discontinued in 1986. These trucks were equipped with a base five-speed manual transmission for optimal control.
Competition with Mitsubishi
In 1983, Mitsubishi began selling its own vehicles in the United States, including a pickup similar to the Ram 50. This led to competition between Dodge and Mitsubishi for sales of essentially the same vehicle under different badges. The market became saturated with similar models, including the Mitsubishi Mirage, Plymouth Colt, Dodge Colt, and Eagle Summit, further complicating the choices for consumers.
Specifications and Features
Despite sharing a platform with Mitsubishi vehicles, the Dodge D-50 and Ram 50 offered unique styling and features. These small pickups were suitable for a variety of tasks, from everyday commuting to light-duty hauling. With options for both gasoline and diesel engines, as well as manual transmissions, buyers had the flexibility to choose the configuration that best suited their needs.
The Sad End in a Colorado Car Graveyard
Ultimately, the Dodge-badged Mitsubishi Forte pickup met its end in a Colorado car graveyard. The abandoned truck was filled with boxes of household items, newspapers, magazines, and even damaged family photo albums. With just over 50,000 miles on the odometer, this once-reliable vehicle had succumbed to neglect and was unable to move under its own power. The sight of this forgotten truck serves as a reminder of the transient nature of automotive history and the importance of caring for cherished memories in a more secure manner.
In conclusion, the Dodge-badged Mitsubishi Forte pickup represents a unique chapter in the partnership between Chrysler and Mitsubishi. Despite its eventual demise in a car graveyard, this small pickup truck left a lasting legacy in the automotive industry and serves as a testament to the collaborations that have shaped the market over the years.