15 Square Body Trucks That Defined An Era

Ah yes, the golden age of square body trucks—a time when vehicles had character, grit, and a presence that commanded the road.

These weren’t just trucks; they were rolling testaments to durability, design, and a no-nonsense approach to life. With their bold lines, boxy frames, and unmistakable silhouettes, square body trucks from the ’70s and ’80s weren’t trying to be sleek—they were built to work, and built to last.

I still remember climbing into my dad’s old square body as a kid, hands on the oversized steering wheel, dreaming of cross-country escapades and dusty trails. The roar of the engine, the squeak of the bench seat—it all felt like magic.

Today, these trucks are more than vintage machines—they’re icons of an era that prized utility over polish, and function over flash. So buckle up and get ready to cruise through 15 legendary square body trucks that defined a generation and stole our hearts.

1. 1973–1987 Chevrolet C/K Series

Let’s kick off with the 1973–1987 Chevrolet C/K Series, the undisputed ruler of the square body realm. This truck was the ultimate workhorse, boasting reliability that could rival a Swiss watch. No wonder it’s still revered by enthusiasts and collectors today.

These trucks didn’t just work hard; they played hard too. Whether it was hauling lumber or conquering muddy trails, they never shied away from a challenge. With its boxy yet charismatic design, it turned heads and captured hearts.

Who could forget those countless road trips where the C/K became more than just a vehicle—it was part of the family. A ride that could withstand the test of time, proving that tough and dependable never goes out of style.

2. 1978–1979 Ford Bronco

Ah, the Ford Bronco—a name synonymous with adventure and a sense of freedom. From 1978 to 1979, this short-wheelbase, full-size beast roamed the roads, embodying the spirit of ‘Murica in its purest form.

With its removable top, it was the quintessential summer ride, inviting thrill-seekers to chase sunsets and splash through mud puddles with reckless abandon. The Bronco wasn’t just a truck; it was a mindset—a call to explore the untamed wilderness.

Many weekends were spent with friends piled in, surfboards strapped on top, chasing the perfect wave. It’s a vehicle that whispers, “Let’s hit the road and see where it takes us,” making every journey an epic story waiting to unfold.

3. 1973–1991 Chevy Suburban

The Chevy Suburban—an icon before SUVs became the cool kids on the block. This beast could carry a small army, or in my family’s case, a horde of restless children and a dog or two. It was a mobile fortress.

Spanning nearly two decades, from 1973 to 1991, the Suburban evolved but never lost its utilitarian charm. These vehicles were synonymous with family road trips and saw more miles than a marathon runner.

My fondest memory? Watching houses shrink in the rear-view mirror as the Suburban towed our camper, adventures waiting just beyond the horizon. It was a vehicle that knew no boundaries, a testament to Chevy’s commitment to endurance and capacity.

4. 1979–1987 Dodge Ram (D/W Series)

Enter the Dodge Ram D/W Series, a truck as honest as a lumberjack’s handshake. From 1979 to 1987, it stood as a testament to Dodge’s ethos of rugged reliability and unapologetic simplicity.

No frills or fancy additions here—just a big, boxy frame with an engine ready to tackle whatever nature threw at it. This was Dodge in its purest form, long before the Ram badge took on a more refined reputation.

For me, this truck was the embodiment of grit, with memories of it hauling everything from timber to appliances in a single trip. It was a machine that said, “I get the job done,” no questions asked.

5. 1978–1983 GMC Jimmy

Introducing the GMC Jimmy, Chevy Blazer’s twin brother with a bit more shine and swagger. From 1978 to 1983, the Jimmy captured hearts with its rugged charm and adventurous spirit.

It was the vehicle of choice for those who craved the open road and weren’t afraid to get a little dirt under their nails. With a little more chrome than its sibling, it was the epitome of style and substance.

I remember the Jimmy being the star of many escapades, effortlessly navigating winding mountain roads. It was not just about the destinations; it was about the thrill of getting there in style and comfort.

6. 1973–1980 International Harvester Scout II

Rugged doesn’t even begin to cover the International Harvester Scout II. This was the four-wheeled equivalent of a mountain goat, ready to tackle any terrain with a stubborn resilience that was nothing short of legendary.

The Scout II was the original rebel, with a build that looked like it could knock a Jeep out of its path. From 1973 to 1980, it was the ride for those who carved their own paths and made the wilderness their second home.

Every trip in a Scout II felt like a mini adventure—whether it was climbing over rocks or wading through streams, it never backed down from a challenge. It was a drive that promised excitement and delivered every time.

7. 1976–1986 Jeep J10 (Gladiator)

The Jeep J10, or Gladiator as it was fondly known, was the tough and rugged star of the ‘76 to ’86 lineup. Its squared-off elegance and signature seven-slot grille made it as iconic as a cowboy hat in a western film.

Built for the rugged trails but equally at home in the city, the J10 was a versatile beast. With its full-size frame, it carried the spirit of the Jeep brand into the realm of the pickup, ready to haul and tow like a seasoned veteran.

Driving the J10 was like commanding a tank—an unstoppable force that took no prisoners. It defined an era of rough and ready trucks, leaving a legacy that still resonates today.

8. 1972–1980 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ55

Affectionately dubbed the ‘Iron Pig’, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ55 was as tough as its porcine nickname suggests. From 1972 to 1980, it reigned supreme in the realm of off-roading, proving that beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder.

This was a beast of burden, tasked with carrying explorers and their gear across unforgiving landscapes. The FJ55 was more than just a vehicle; it was a trusty steed, reliable and unwavering, ready to tackle whatever lay ahead.

Riding in one felt like being part of an expedition, with its sturdy form acting as a shield against the elements. It was the embodiment of Toyota’s commitment to durability and adventure.

9. 1981–1985 Isuzu P’up

Quirky and compact, the Isuzu P’up was the charming little truck that could. From 1981 to 1985, it stood out with its squared simplicity and undeniable ‘80s charm.

This was the economy truck that didn’t take itself too seriously, yet managed to carve out a niche as a reliable workhorse for those in the know. With its compact size, it was perfect for zipping through city streets or taking on small-scale hauling tasks.

Owning a P’up felt like being part of an exclusive club, where function met fun. It may not have been the biggest or the baddest, but it sure had personality in spades.

10. 1984–1988 Toyota Pickup (Hilux)

The Toyota Pickup, known as the Hilux outside the U.S., was the truck that even a TV show couldn’t kill. From 1984 to 1988, it became legendary for its unyielding resilience and indestructibility.

This was the truck that took on challenges and came out unscathed, proving that sometimes, the simplest designs are the toughest. Whether traversing rocky landscapes or surviving attempts to sink, burn, or crush it, the Hilux stood firm.

Owning one felt like having a trusty sidekick—always ready for the next adventure, no matter how rough the terrain. The Hilux was proof that toughness and reliability never go out of style.

11. 1983–1988 Mitsubishi Mighty Max / Dodge Ram 50

The Mitsubishi Mighty Max, also known as the Dodge Ram 50, was the sleeper hit of the square body era. From 1983 to 1988, this compact yet capable truck was the unsung hero of many a driveway.

It wasn’t the loudest or the flashiest, but it got the job done with minimal fuss. This was the truck you either owned or knew someone who did, quietly dependable without the need for constant fanfare.

To me, the Mighty Max was like a trusty old friend—always ready to lend a hand, whether it was moving furniture or tackling the weekend gardening. It was a little truck with a big heart, embodying the essence of humble reliability.

12. 1986–1993 Jeep Comanche (MJ)

The Jeep Comanche was a trailblazer in the true sense, being the only unibody pickup Jeep ever made. From 1986 to 1993, this unique design set it apart from its contemporaries.

With its boxy silhouette and Jeep heritage, it combined the best of both worlds—off-road capability with the utility of a pickup. It was a vehicle that stood out, not just for its design, but for the statement it made.

Driving a Comanche felt like being part of a revolution, where innovation met tradition. It wasn’t just about getting from point A to B; it was about making the journey matter.

13. 1977–1985 Ford F-Series (6th Gen)

The 6th Generation Ford F-Series was the truck your uncle probably still drives. From 1977 to 1985, it was all about straight lines, strong V8s, and a no-nonsense approach to hard work.

This was the epitome of Ford’s dedication to building trucks that didn’t just perform but outlasted the competition. With its classic design and robust engine, it was a favorite for farmers, builders, and anyone who valued grit over glamour.

To me, it was the quintessential American truck, embodying the spirit of hard work and perseverance. Its presence on the road was a reminder of a time when trucks were built to last, not just look good.

14. 1976–1983 Datsun 720 / Nissan Truck

The Datsun 720 was a truck with attitude. From 1976 to 1983, it was the epitome of Japanese engineering wrapped in ‘80s flair and sharp angles.

This was the truck that didn’t just move goods; it moved people with its reliability and distinctive style. With its bulletproof engineering, it was a favorite among those who appreciated function blended seamlessly with form.

Driving a Datsun 720 felt like cruising in a piece of history, where every journey was an opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship and innovation of its time. It was more than a vehicle; it was a statement of quality and endurance.

15. 1980–1986 Chevy LUV

Last but certainly not least, the Chevy LUV was the little truck with a big personality. From 1980 to 1986, this Isuzu-built wonder carved a niche for itself as Chevy’s small, square, and scrappy hero.

It was the kind of truck that was ready to take on tasks without hesitation, embodying a can-do attitude that was infectious. The LUV stood for “light utility vehicle,” but it proved that light didn’t mean lacking.

For me, the LUV was like the underdog that always came out on top—whether on the farm or in the city, it handled everything with a blend of charm and toughness. It was the embodiment of plucky perseverance.