Description:Full-Size Pickup Truck
Base MSRP Range: $19,420 - $27,370
Invoice Price Range: Â $17,281 - $24,193
Dodge's light-duty 1500 series pickups look like no other, thanks to that chin-forward prow and the stepped-hood styling of a big-rig Peterbilt. Revamped powertrains for 2004 Rams include a 3.7-liter V6, 4.7-liter V8 and the optional new 5.7-liter HEMI Magnum, which replaces a 5.9-liter V8 with 100-hp boost for a total of 345 hp. That HEMI with classic hemispherical cylinder head design optimizes air flow in the big plant. It mates with Dodge's five-speed 5-45RFE automatic transmission with reverse gear ratio equal to the low gear ratio, which helps with tow chores. With the HEMI in place, Ram's Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) runs as high as 14000 pounds, while the Gross Trailer Weight Rating (GTWR) climbs to 9300 pounds.
Ram 1500 brings two cab choices, either the two-door Regular Cab or four-door Quad Cab, and both are available in two-wheel-drive (2WD) and 4WD traction modes. Entry issue is called the ST, but there's also the Work Special model, Sport, SLT and Laramie. The 3.7-liter V6 is standard on 2WD Ram Regular Cab and 2WD Quad Cab. The Laramie package applies a bright new chrome grille with chrome bodyside moldings and fresh interior appointments like silver trim on door panels and bezels of the instrument panel. Ram's Work Special edition puts practical gear in an affordable rig with wash-and-wear durability, while the Off-Road package installs equipment for rugged four-wheeling excursions, including skid plates, a limited-slip differential, foglamps, heavy-duty cooling system and tow hooks.
