The 1957 Dodge D100 Sweptside Pickup is not your typical mid-century truck. While most pickups of the era emphasized utility and simplicity, Dodge experimented with design by giving the Sweptside a style that leaned closer to passenger cars. This bold move has made the model stand out even decades later, both for its rarity and its unusual approach.
Distinctive Styling of the Dodge Sweptside
The Sweptside was produced between 1957 and 1959, marking Dodge’s attempt to set its trucks apart in a competitive market. To achieve this, the Specialty Equipment Group modified standard D100 pickups with rear quarter panels borrowed from the 1957 two-door station wagons. These sections were grafted onto the cargo boxes, giving the truck pronounced fins that mirrored the passenger car design trends of the time.
Car bumpers and tailored tail lights completed the transformation, creating a truck that carried unmistakable automotive cues while retaining its work-ready structure. The styling pushed boundaries, blending utility with an aesthetic that felt borrowed from Dodge’s car lineup.
Cabin Features with Mid-Century Character
Inside, the Sweptside carried its own mix of functionality and novelty. The turquoise and white interior matched the bold two-tone exterior, emphasizing the fashionable color contrasts of the late 1950s. A Benrus clock integrated into the steering wheel’s horn ring added an unexpected touch of luxury. Other notable equipment included dual mirrors, a driver’s spotlight, and bright full-size wheel covers paired with wide whitewall tires.
Powertrain and Performance
Beneath the unique bodywork, the 1957 Dodge D100 Sweptside Pickup was equipped with a 315 cubic-inch V-8 engine. The pairing of this engine with a pushbutton automatic transmission reflected Chrysler’s emphasis on technology and convenience during the era. Though not a high-performance truck by modern standards, the V-8 offered dependable power for both utility tasks and light cruising.
A Rare and Experimental Dodge Pickup
Only produced for a short period, the Sweptside remains one of Dodge’s most experimental offerings in the truck market. Its limited numbers and unusual design give it a unique position in automotive history. For enthusiasts today, the Sweptside represents a time when carmakers took risks, blending style and function in ways that stood apart from convention.
Summary
The 1957 Dodge D100 Sweptside Pickup remains an intriguing mix of car-inspired details and classic truck engineering. With its V-8 power, pushbutton transmission, and distinctive styling, it captures a moment when Dodge blurred the lines between utility and design flair. Its short production run only adds to its lasting significance.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.
Source & Details: mecum.com
