Mini-Trucks Could Be Next Big Thing

The mini-truck segment was most popular in the late 1970s and early '80s when the small-truck segment offered the average buyer products from Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, Mazda, Datsun, Toyota, Nissan and others. As the entry-level small-pickup market contracted, so did the mini-truck craze. But that could be about to change.

According to Hot Rod magazine, the next big thing in the customizing world looks like it’s going to be restoring and modifying vintage mini-trucks. Finding good pickup truck candidates for restoration projects used to be pretty easy, according to the article, when Datsuns, Ford Couriers and Chevy Luvs could be bought for $500. Now those same trucks are selling for $5,000 in good condition. That means we could be seeing more Toyota Stouts, Datsun 1600s and Mazda B2000s at car shows, the Specialty Equipment Market Association Show in Las Vegas and maybe even on TV. Of course, this particular trend will not help those interested in keeping their little truck's payload and towing capacities. 

We'll keep our eyes open for any mini-truck trends that may pop up in Southern California, and be sure to let us know if you see any truck-modifying trends happening in your town.

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