Dodge began producing commercial vehicles in 1941 and, during World War I. Dodge provided troop carriers, ambulances and light utility vehicles. For World War II, however, Dodge re-tooled its civilian vehicles for the war effort. Dodge had come out with a new civilian line for 1939 and the military vehicles for the following year were influenced by these new lines. In turn, after the war, these military vehicles influenced the civilian market in turn.

In 1946, Dodge introduced its civilian model based on a successful World War II design. The Power Wagon was thus the civilian version of the military 4X4 vehicle and Dodge advertised it as a "self-propelled power plant." The serious looking vehicle had the capability to carry loads up to 3,000 pounds and it provided a powerful 92 horsepower at 3200 rpm. The Power Wagon also came with an optional winch that had a 7,500 pound capacity. If the Power Wagon's performance lived up to its name, so did its appearance. With 7.50 x 16 8-ply tyres that could be upgraded to 9.00 x 16 8-ply, an imposing front bumper, and heavy duty shock absorbers, the Power Wagon looked like it could take on anything. Yet, Dodge also considered driver comfort with standard deluxe seat and back cushions and driver sun visor, as well as a deluxe cab package. In 1946, the Power Wagon was available in a number of colours, including "Seawolf Submarine" green. A classic post-war vehicle and a true forerunner of the modern 4X4 phenomenon, the Power Wagon continued to be produced until 1980, establishing itself as the ideal vehicle for any kind of job.

Now, the classic 1946 Dodge Power Wagon is recreated in authentic detail in a 1:43 scale die-cast replica. With its no-nonsense profile, its heavy-duty tyres and its commodious bed, the 1946 Dodge Power Wagon is produced by - and available only from - Matchbox Collectibles.

(1999)

Scale: 1:43