The Dodge Ram 2500 Quad Cab heavy-duty pickup is among the Ram models that are now equipped with a potent "Hemi" V-8 engine.
The return of the potent "Hemi'' V-8 gives the new heavy-duty versions of the Dodge Ram pickup truck a leg up on rivals because it's one of few legendary engines offered by an American automaker.
The first mass-produced American car with a 300-horsepower engine was the 1955 Chrysler C300, which had a high-output version of the Hemi. The engine, which got its name from hemispherical combustion chambers, originally was introduced by Chrysler Corp. in 1951 with 180 horsepower--a high rating in that era.
Chrysler 300 models with the Hemi engine dominated NASCAR racing in the mid-1950s, but Chrysler dropped the engine in 1958 because it was complicated and costly to build, with an elaborate pushrod setup.
A more modern and even more awesome version of the Hemi was introduced by Chrysler in the mid-1960s, where the conservatively rated 425-horsepower engine was feared by competitors both on the track and street. The virtual disappearance of muscle cars in the early 1970s and stricter emissions laws forced Chrysler to drop the Hemi in 1971.
But the Hemi's reputation never died. While Ford brought back a modern version of its classic two-seat Thunderbird, DaimlerChrysler decided to bring back the Hemi--especially because auto companies are returning to the horsepower wars of the 1950s and 1960s.
The newest Hemi has a 5.7-liter displacement and generates 345 horsepower. Called the "Hemi Magnum,'' it's been standard since the recent beginning of the 2003 model year for the revamped Dodge Ram 2500 and similar 3500 heavy-duty pickup truck models.
But it was announced last week that the Hemi also will be offered for the "civilian'' 1500 version of the Ram for only $795. The highest horsepower rating for a 1500 was 245 horsepower from a 5.9-liter V-8, and DaimlerChrysler expects that 40 percent of Ram 1500 customers will order the Hemi engine, which will work with a five-speed automatic transmission.
After all, Dodge is the high-performance version of DaimlerChrysler--just as it was before Daimler-Benz bought Chrysler a few years ago. Look for the Hemi to also be put in DaimlerChrysler auto models.
"The new Hemi distinguishes Dodge from the competition by offering the 345-horsepower Hemi across our full range of trucks not just special edition models or those with sport packages,'' said Richard Schaum, a DaimlerChrysler executive vice president.
The Hemi always has been a macho engine, and the macho-looking Ram 1500 to 3500 models are probably the most recognizable full-size pickups. They're among the top-selling DaimlerChrysler vehicles, and the Hemi promises to enhance Ram sales.
The standard-duty Ram 1500 models were redesigned for 2002 to become more of a family vehicle, while retaining big-rig styling and toughness. They aren't changed much for 2003 and come in regular and extended cab Quad Cab four-passenger models. Base prices ranging from $18,155 to $28,585.
Tested here is the heavy-duty Ram. It comes with regular or extended cabs and two- or four-wheel drive. The entry regular cab, rear-drive 2500 model costs $22,840, while the entry 3500 rear-drive Quad Cab version is $27,900. Four-wheel drive models cost more, and there is a stagging variety of ways to equip 2500/3500 models. You can even get one with four rear tires for extra-heavy-duty work.
The heavy-duty Ram is new from grille to tailgate. You can tell when a new Ram has the Hemi if it carries small chromed fender badges that say "5.7 Liter Hemi Magnum.''
Also offered is a 305-horsepower V-10 engine and a new top-line, 305-horsepower Cummins turbocharged inline six-cylinder diesel engine. That diesel comes with a six-speed manual transmission and has a staggering 555 pound-feet of torque that allows a class-leading towing capability of 23,000 pounds.
But don't think that the 2500/3500 heavy-duty Rams are bought only for commercial use, because an increasing number of "civilian'' truck lovers are buying the biggest, toughest pickups they can find.
Ram 2500/3500 models now account for a third of Ram sales and DaimlerChrysler vice president Jim Julow said the company "is poised to significantly increase those numbers'' with the revamped models.
Besides the impressive styling of the 1500, the new heavy-duty Ram gets an upgraded interior, improved four-wheel-drive system and a new chassis with a full-length hydroformed heavy-duty frame that provides a good foundation for good ride and handling. The rear-drive 2500/3500 has the first application of more precise rack-and-pinion steering in a heavy-duty truck (four-wheel-drive versions have a new recirculating ball steering with better on-center feel).
DaimlerChrysler said it built on advances it made in safety, ride and handling with the 2002 Ram 1500 "without compromising the work ethic'' of the heavy-duty Ram.
The 2500/3500 has the first heavy-duty pickup application of side curtain air bags and the first power adjustable pedals.
The 1500 features almost carlike steering, handling, ride and braking. So it wasn't surprising that the fairly posh four-wheel-drive Ram 2500 Quad Cab SLT model I tested with the Hemi V-8 had decent steering and good handling with the large, standard 17-inch wheels. There's also nice brake pedal feel and standard anti-lock brakes.
However, the ride is more trucklike than in the 1500. It's generally comfortable, but occasionally gets jerky. Acceleration is very strong, and the Hemi V-8 loafs at 2,100 rpm at 70 mph. The five-speed automatic transmission is responsive.
The 2500/3500 Quad Cab comes with either a 140.5 or 160.5-inch wheelbases. It's really big, wide and tall, so potential buyers best check their garage dimensions.
It takes extra effort to climb in or get out--especially with the higher four-wheel drive models--and narrow running boards don't help much. But doors open fully 85 degrees and the rear seat area can accommodate up to three adults. Occupants sit high, and the interior is quiet except for noticeable wind noise above 60 mph.
Gauges can be read quickly, and controls are easily reached and have a precise feel. A big flip-down console in the middle of the front seat can hold a laptop computer, and large door handles make it easy to get out in the dark without groping.
Most people would be happy with the Ram 1500, especially with the Hemi V-8. But the heavy-duty Ram models have been deftly redone to give them wider appeal.
2003 DODGE RAM 2500/3500
Prices
$22,840-$27,900
Likes:
Comeback of potent, legendary Hemi V-8. Roomy. Bold styling. Rugged.
Dislikes:
High step-in. Narrow running boards. Occasional jerky ride. Very large.