Pickup trucks are our best friends. They're the only vehicles that can tow things, haul stuff, and get you out of sticky situations like mud or snow. They're also our partners in crime when it comes to doing things like moving furniture, hauling wood… and any other activity that requires a lot of physical effort. And as long as you keep them maintained and well-loved, they'll keep you going for years and years as reliable cars.

That said, it's not always easy to decide which of these vehicles will last forever and which ones won't. There are so many different models out there, with so many different features, that finding one built to last can be confusing. We've done some research on this topic and have come up with a list of 10 pre-2000s pickup trucks that will run forever.

Related: 10 Pre-2000s GT Cars That Will Run Forever

10 1986-1997 Nissan Hardbody "Hustler"

1994 Nissan Hardbody Front
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When you're talking about the 10 pre-2000s pickup trucks that will run forever, it's hard to overlook the Nissan Hardbody. They praise these trucks far and wide for their strength, durability, and performance.

They built it with a steel body and frame, which they complemented with a long-lasting V6 diesel engine perfect for hauling anything you want.

9 1973-1979 Datsun 620

via BringaTrailer

They built the Datsun 620 truck to last. These trucks have a massive reputation for being reliable and for having long-lasting performance since their release in 1973, and many models are still in use around the world.

It's strong and durable, with simple engineering. The engine itself is incredibly reliable, as it's made with few moving parts that made it less likely to break down. Even if you put a lot of miles on this little baby, it'll still keep on ticking.

8 1979-2002 Volkswagen Type 2 Pickup

1963 Volkswagen Type 2 Single Cab Pickup
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The VW Type 2 has a strong and durable body that can withstand the toughest conditions. It's also equipped with an engine that's able to last for over 300,000 miles before requiring any major service. And while it might not be able to climb boulders or go off-roading like other trucks, it'll get you where you need to go with ease.

They made this truck for hardworking people, so it's meant to get you from point A to point B without getting stuck or breaking down on the side of the road. It's simple, strong, and reliable—and it'll last forever if you take care of it.

7 1963-1987 Jeep J Truck

Via: Bring a Trailer

The Jeep J Truck is also incredibly sturdy and durable, which is why it's been so popular among drivers for over 50 years.

During its life, the J Truck has been a favorite among farmers who needed something they could count on in any weather condition—and even today, Jeep J Trucks are still going strong. It was basically a pickup version of the CJ-5 but with a longer bed, more headroom, and higher suspension, which means they built it on one of the most reliable platforms ever.

Related: 10 Pre-2000s Luxury Cars That Will Run Forever

6 1993-1997 Ford Ranger

1995 Ford Ranger
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In the 90s, Ford produced the Ranger, and it came in two-door and four-door versions, but most people preferred the four-door version because it had more room for kids and families. It was also one of the most durable and long-lasting trucks ever made.

It was a truck that could be a daily driver or used for outdoor activities, a "multi-tool of cars", which was kind of new. The Ranger was able to do any type of job, including construction work or hauling heavy loads.

5 1974 Volkswagen Rabbit

White 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit GTI
Via Wikimedia.commons

They built the Volkswagen Rabbit to be durable, so it will last forever and be easy to maintain, and they succeeded. It's so strong and durable that it's often referred to as the "Unkillable Rabbit."

This car is still around today because it's reliable, durable, and affordable, they are even still producing it in some countries. You can buy one for cheap, and it will be just as strong as an expensive truck. You can count on this truck to get you through any situation without breaking down or needing repairs every few months.

4 1981-1986 Jeep CJ-8

1982 Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler 4-Speed Pickup Truck
Via: BringaTrailer

The Jeep CJ-8 was a truck made by the Jeep for people that wanted a truck that would handle anything and never need replacing. It was one of the newer models of pickup trucks to come with Jeep, and it's still one of their most popular models.

They over-engineered this platform to the point of insanity so that it could withstand the test of time, and it has. This truck will run forever if you take care of it.

3 Ford F-Series

1967 Ford F100 Pickup Truck
Via: BringaTrailer

The Ford F-Series is one of the most reliable trucks on the market, and this specific line of trucks has been around since 1948. It's a tough and rugged truck, and it's proven to last a long time.

It is the type of truck that you can just dump a bunch of stuff in, turn the key and go. You don't have to baby it or treat it with kid gloves, it's so reliable that you don’t even need to think about it.

2 1983 And Up Toyota Hilux

Toyota Hilux
Toyota

This Toyota Hilux has been around since 1983, and since then, it has become one of the most popular cars in Australia and South Africa for both personal use and commercial purposes.

The Toyota Hilux has a reputation for its reliability and durability, so if you're looking for a solid workhorse vehicle that can haul anything from furniture to heavy equipment, this is definitely one of the most reliable.

Related: 10 Pre-2000s Sports Cars That Will Run Forever

1 Dodge Power Wagon (WW Version)

Dodge Power Wagon Auction Rear Quarter View
via Mecum Auctions

They built the Dodge Power Wagon to last through wars, so it is as solid as a truck gets. Its rugged, durable body and powerful engine allow it to perform any task you throw at it—from hauling a load of wood through the forest to taking on a herd of buffalo in the plains.

Its powerful engine, combined with its four-wheel drive, makes it ideal for off-roading and snow driving. When it comes to reliability, this is the best option out there—it'll run forever without giving you any trouble because they made it to do so in the War.

Sources: Carsurvey, Car Gurus, Edmunds, Curbside Classic, Cars Guide, How Stuff Works