The price of new trucks is beyond comprehension!

You are right as rain, and used trucks are no better.
I bought my first pickup for $3,300 in about 1974. It was a Chevy Luv with an Isuzu engine and a 4 speed and 2wd. It went everywhere.

I just saw a 2002 Ford diesel go fro $35 k.

If one of the car makers figures out that there is a market for simple trucks at a lower price they will sell all they can make. I don't need a backup camera, blue tooth and adjustable pedals. I would buy a truck with vinyl floors and seats if the drivetrain was good.