1956 Dodge C3 Turbo Diesel – SWAPPED 3.0L TURBO DIESEL, 3SPD AUTO, PWR STEER/BRAKES, S10 CHASSIS

Vehicle Location: Concord, NC
Auction Type: Reserve
Mileage: 883
Engine: 3.0L Turbo Diesel
Transmission: 3 Speed Automatic
Exterior: Green Patina
Interior: Gray
VIN: T436299
Party: Dealer

It’s not just that you’re looking at a rarely-seen 1956 Dodge C3 pickup; it’s also that this one has all the best stuff you want in a modern classic. After all, the patina look is red-hot right now. But even if another one of those customs arrives at the car show, they likely won’t have a Mercedes turbo diesel power under the hood.

This classic Job-Rated Dodge has an awesome total appearance. The bold green faded into patina has the right hint of rat rod style. But the fact that it is sealed in with a shiny clearcoat really tells the full story of a more thoughtful custom. In fact, you see more well-planned pieces, like the way the cream white roof goes with the bumpers and grille.

They raised the bed so they could lower the suspension, and at the same time, they made sure to give you plenty of glossy real wood back there. And those black steel wheels are pure street-machine cool. So this one instantly fits in with both the vintage and new custom scenes.

The interior keeps the classic truck details like the symmetrical steel dash and the wraparound rear window that let in plenty of light. But you can also see they gave you some nice upgrades for a cruiser kind of pickup. It includes nice carpeting/insulation and a split bench that gives you bucket-like comfort with the fold-down armrest.

The upgraded wood-rimmed steering wheel is on a tilt column. This gives you a clear view to the gauge package, and if you know Mercedes-Benzs, then those dials give you a big clue to the upgrade under the hood.

Under the butterfly hood is a truly distinct upgrade. However, the Mercedes 3.0-liter turbodiesel has an industrial attractiveness that looks correct under the hood of this pickup. The OM617-series motor is part of the era that made Mercedes diesel motors the true high mileage kings. They have one of the best reputations for robustness in the industry, and this unit seen here was one of the most powerful versions they ever offered for the series.

These have never been speed demons, but you already knew that. Their true value is that this was built to be an effortless cruiser. That’s why this also has an updated suspension, front disc brakes, power steering, and a three-speed automatic transmission.

This is a rarely-seen Dodge that really maximizes its robust style. It makes for a terrific custom that you’ll love to show and drive.