Full-size pickup trucks, known for their power and versatility, are a hot commodity. Many of the leading carmakers have solid full-size models in their lineup, and over the last few years, the competition has become fierce. With so many great options available, it can be hard to know which pickup is the best. And if you are looking at used models, you also have to take into account all the different years for each model as there could be significant differences and changes from year to year. One of the most compelling full-size pickup trucks, and one that has a stellar reputation, is the Ram 1500. With its powerful engine options, a variety of trims, and a hardworking legacy, more and more people are beginning to take notice of this spectacular truck. So as you are searching for your next truck, here are five reasons to buy a used Ram 1500.
#1 Excellent Engines
As is the case with every truck, one of the most important things to consider is the engine. A good, powerful engine can make or break a truck, and with the Ram 1500, it certainly makes it. If you take the 2018 Ram 1500 as an example (a good place to start since it was rated by U.S. News as the #1 full-size pickup that year), you will notice three solid engine choices that offer the perfect blend of power and efficiency all while making sure the Ram handles well.
The first engine from that year is a 3.6L V6 engine that can generate up to 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. What makes this engine even more exciting is that it is the base model and is a great place for the Ram 1500 to start. And the fuel economy of the V6 engine is also refreshing for a pickup and can get from 17 MPG in the city and up to 25 MPG on the highway.
Another option from 2018 is a 3.0L turbocharged diesel engine that produces 240 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. While the diesel engine doesn’t have the same hp upside as the 3.6L V6, it is even more efficient and gets 19 MPG in the city and up to 27 MPG on the highway. This engine is a great choice for those who want a great truck that is still powerful but even more economical.
The third engine is quite likely the best of all and is by far the most powerful. It’s a 5.7L V8 engine that can make up to 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. This is the engine you will want if you have serious work (or playing) to do and need to haul some big-time cargo. However, no matter which engine you are most interested in with the 2018 Ram 1500, you can’t go wrong.
#2 Great Reliability
One thing you have to keep in mind, no matter what kind of used vehicle you are buying, is reliability. Even if a car, truck, or SUV has unbelievable performance, it won’t be worth buying it if it is going to break down regularly or has an engine that falls apart after 100,000 miles. With the Ram 1500, you get a truck that combines superb performance with reliability ratings that are very good. This means you can buy and drive a Ram 1500 with confidence, knowing that it will last and won’t be a constant headache.
#3 Tremendous Towing Capacity
Towing capacity is one of the most important specs for any truck. For many, it is the main reason they are buying a truck in the first place. With the Ram 1500, you will not be disappointed with how much it can trailer.
If you opt for the V8 engine, the Ram 1500 can handle north of 8,100 lbs, which makes it one of the most powerful trucks in the segment. That kind of weight should be more than enough to tow a variety of different machinery for work, like bobcats, or for play, like smaller boats and campers.
#4 Superior Interior
The interior is the secret weapon of the Ram 1500. While many people buy full-size trucks for their performance and towing capacity, the Ram 1500 has both in spades but adds a superior interior as the cherry on top.
The first thing to know about the interior is that it is incredibly versatile and comes in several different configurations with seating for anywhere from two to six passengers. It is also spacious, with 41 inches of legroom in the front row and 34.7 inches in the second row on the quad cab. That model also has plenty of cargo room at 57.5 cu.ft.
The inside of the Ram 1500 also has a number of features that make it ultra-convenient. Some trims and years will have an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system that is intuitive and vibrant. Many versions come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, too, so you can stay connected no matter where you are. When you add together all of the great features you find on the inside of the Ram 1500, you are left with an interior that is simply superior.
#5 Exciting Trims and Configurations
One final factor that contributes nicely to the overall quality of used Ram 1500 trucks is the number of exciting trims and configurations. The three different engine options have already been mentioned, but when you add in the choice of a regular cab, crew cab, or quad cab, and the three different bed sizes of 5’7”, 6’4”, and 8”, you end up with a Ram 1500 that is perfect for everyone.
Depending on the year of Ram 1500 you are looking at, you will have several different trims to choose from as well. Some of the trims include the Express, Tradesman, and Big Horn, which are the base models or those with fewer bells and whistles. As you climb the trim ladder, you will also find the Laramie, Sport, and Lone Star. Each and every trim has its own unique features that add to the overall quality of the Ram 1500.
One particularly thrilling trim is the Rebel, which looks like a beast and performs like one too. With 17” alloy wheels and 10.3” clearance, you can go anywhere with the Ram 1500 Rebel. The Active-Level Four-Corner Suspension makes the Rebel the total package and a simply exhilarating off-road pickup option.
Whether you need a Ram 1500 for your commute, to tow your toys, or to manage your farm, there is a trim that is specifically designed to meet your needs. And when you look at Ram 1500 that are even just a few years old, you can often find a great truck for an even better price.
The Ram 1500
There aren’t many full-size trucks that manage to perfectly combine powerful performance, great reliability, a superior interior, and a versatile lineup of trims the same way the Ram 1500 does. It hits all the right notes and was made for those who have work to do. Its tremendous towing capacity means your truck won’t hold you back, and the Rebel trim is one of the most thrilling trucks on the market today. Overall, a used Ram 1500 is an exceptional buy and one you won’t regret.
