Custom 2005 Dodge Rumble Bee Is One Rare Outlaw
From the factory, these Rumble Bee trucks came with painted bumpers, chrome wheels & a ’60s-inspired vertical stripe on the bed.
Dodge has a long history of producing too-cool street trucks. In the ’60s, there was the Custom Sport Special, available with a 426 Wedge V8. In the ’70s, there was the legendary Lil’ Red Express, the fastest-accelerating American vehicle of its time. Then in the ’90s, there was the Viper-powered VTS concept, which became the Ram SRT-10 in the 2000s. In fact, the 2000s were a golden era for Mopar’s fast trucks. Case in point: This rare 2005 Dodge Rumble Bee from Mecum’s latest catalog.
If you don’t remember the Rumble Bee, you’re not alone. The truck was only offered for the 2004 and 2005 model years. In total, just over 10,000 were built. From the factory, these trucks (only available with a regular cab and short bed) came with painted bumpers, chrome wheels, and a ’60s-inspired vertical stripe on the bed. This 2005 model is crossing Mecum’s auction block in September. And by the looks of it, it’s far from stock.
Chances are, the Rumble Bee will be a bonafide Mopar collectible within a few years. It’s fast (powered by a 5.7 liter Hemi V8). It’s desirable (especially in four-wheel drive configuration). And, of course, it’s rare. But how will this one fare when it crosses the block in Louisville, Kentucky next month?
The auction listing is pretty scant on details. Inside, the truck looks to be fairly stock. Outside is where things really get interesting. The former street truck is now sitting on new wheels and a pretty substantial lift kit. Since this is seemingly a four-wheel drive model (note the floor-mounted transfer lever), we approve. On top of the Solar Yellow paint (one of just two colors offered), the previous owner got creative with an airbrush. There are flames coming from the lights, fog lights and grille, and spreading across the hood, fenders, and doors. Out back, there’s a seemingly post-apocalyptic Wild West scene painted on the tailgate.
According to the listing, the owner spent over $50,000 on “suspension, paint, interior, and engine.” Of course, it’s rare for a seller to get back what they put into a project. Clearly, it’s one owner’s vision of their dream truck. But with clean examples trading hands for between for much less, this one might be a tough sell. We’re looking forward to seeing what this truck changes hands for. If anything, there’s nothing else quite lite it.
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