When you talk about early Dodge history, 1933 stands out as a turning point. The brand was clawing its way through one of the toughest financial periods in American automotive history, and smart design decisions helped keep Dodge alive. Fast forward more than nine decades, and this 1933 Dodge Custom Pickup, headed to Mecum Kissimmee on Saturday, January 10th, 2026, captures that survival-era spirit while blending it with classic hot-rod attitude and unmistakable Mopar power.
This pickup may wear vintage Dodge skin, but everything underneath has been carefully reimagined. The steel cab and bed sit on a custom-built frame, instantly separating this truck from stock restorations. Open sides leave the engine proudly on display, a nod to the raw, mechanical look that defined 1950s-era rodding. Finished in a rich cream tone, the body strikes a clean balance between elegance and aggression, aided by chrome bumpers, full running boards, and period-style front- and rear-facing lighting.
The real story begins under the hood. Gone is the original I6 engine; in its place is a first-generation HEMI® V8 sourced from a 1953 Chrysler Imperial. For Mopar enthusiasts, that engine alone is enough to stop traffic. Subtle but thoughtful detailing elevates the presentation, including ribbed valve covers finished in body color and a reflective firewall that highlights the engine bay without looking overdone. Power is routed through an automatic transmission, making this vintage truck far more approachable for modern driving.
To match the upgraded powertrain, the chassis has been fully modernized. An independent front suspension improves ride quality and handling, while power steering and power brakes make the truck comfortable and predictable on today’s roads. This is not a static showpiece—it’s built to be driven.
Inside, the cabin continues the same blend of classic style and modern comfort. Beige upholstery is paired with blue carpeting, and a subtle check pattern accents both the bench seat and door panels. A tilt steering column adds adjustability, complete with a Moon Eyes decal for a touch of hot rod personality. The dash is filled with AutoMeter gauges featuring gold bezels and vintage-style fonts, keeping the look period-correct while delivering modern accuracy. Air conditioning rounds out the interior, ensuring this prewar pickup is just as enjoyable in summer as it is impressive to look at.
Exterior details finish the truck beautifully. Suicide doors add drama, while special HEMI pinstriping, a Dodge tailgate emblem, and a ram hood ornament reinforce its Mopar identity. Color-matched steel wheels with bright hubcaps and trim rings sit at all four corners, wrapped in whitewall radial tires that perfectly complement the truck’s cream finish…