When it comes to Ram trucks, there’s been quite a few on the market. Let’s take a look at some past models, and some more recent models to see the history behind this truck lineup.
Key takeaways
- When it comes to trucks that are made for work, you can look at the 1500 lineup for most jobs, and the heavy-duty lineup for when you need more power.
- If you’re needing space to carry equipment, but don’t want to get it exposed to the elements, look for the Ram C/V Tradesman, and the ProMaster, both being the same vehicle, just under a different name.
- If you’re wanting an off-roading toy, then look for the TRX, the TRX has a powerful engine that puts all other competition to shame.
- When looking at the 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500, despite most sharing the same engine, the real difference is the suspension, with the higher number having a larger rating.
- The Dodge Dakota was, and still is, the only mid-size truck the Ram lineup has seen.
- When looking at what’s still being produced for the North American market, there’s only a handful of models to look for.
Ram 1500
The Ram 1500 is a staple for the Dodge lineup and it isn’t going anywhere soon, currently in its fifth generation, this truck has a storied history. The Ram 1500 is meant to be your full-size pickup, able to do most light to medium size jobs with ease whenever you need it.
Ram Heavy Duty
Much like the 1500, this is meant to be your work truck, with the distinction that this one can do much more. The Heavy Duty comes in both 2500, and 3500 trims, with each having a distinct purpose. The 3500 can do most of your heavy lifting when going from site to site, making it the perfect choice for heavy haulers. The heavy duty also comes in 4500 and 5500.
Ram ProMaster
The ProMaster while it’s technically a van, it’s in the truck family. The ProMaster is the perfect choice for those who need some extra utility to get your work done without having your equipment exposed to the elements.
Able to carry a large amount of equipment in the back while still having room to work. The ProMaster comes in different models, much like the Ram truck lineup where you can find the 1500, 2500, and 3500.
For the models that are no longer being made there’s not many to pick form, the trims you can look for are:
Dodge Dakota
The Dodge Dakota was around for 1987-2011 and was built as a mid-size pickup. If you were wanting more of a daily driver, but don’t want to give up the utility that a truck offers, then this is the one for you.
Ram C/V Tradesman
The Ram C/V Tradesman was the original ProMaster, with the van being a cargo version of the Chrysler minivan platform, but was later renamed to be the ProMaster. Being that the names were switched, it’s still the same exact model, filling the same role as a cargo van.
Ram 1500 TRX
The 1500 TRX was a high-performance pickup, and while it was a pickup, it is more than just your average work truck. The TRX came with a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 engine that produced a monstrous 702 horsepower, and came with 35-inch tires that are mounted on 18-wheels, making this truck look menacing. Despite this truck having to be discontinued, it sure has left a lasting impression on the truck market.
Final thoughts
When it comes to Rams new and old, we have them here at Jarrett, come stop by and check out our Ram truck inventory today!