Used 2004 Dodge Ram
Buying Guide for the Dodge Ram:
The full-size pickup truck segment may be the most hotly
contested of all the automobile groups on earth. Manufacturers
slug it out with one another year after year, punching and
counterpunching with new models, more power and better safety.
This year, the 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 has to compete with a brand-new
Ford F-150 and a tough Chevy Silverado, among others.
How does it answer? Dodge adds more HEMI power and an extra
infusion of style for 2004. With the addition of the 5.7-liter
HEMI Magnum engine to the Ram 1500 lineup, the full-size beast
is the most powerful mass production light-duty pickup on
the market. That is certainly one way to step things up.
An optional full-time four-wheel drive system and new “Tow/Haul”
transmission feature are also part of the additions for 2004.
As usual, the Dodge Ram 1500 is offered in two body styles:
a two-door regular cab and a Quad Cab four-door crew cab.
Both come in ST and uplevel SLT trims with cargo beds of 6.3
ft or 8 ft.
Under the Hood
There are three tough engines to choose from this year, depending
on the model. The base setup involves a 3.7-liter V6 engine.
It has 215 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 235 lb-ft of torque
at 4000 rpm. Up one step is the 4.7-liter V8, which produces
235 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 300 lb-ft of torque at 3200
rpm.
The Ram 1500’s real beef comes with its optional 5.7-liter
HEMI V8. The use of the classic HEMI (hemispherical) head
design creates optimal airflow, while twin spark plugs, direct
ignition and Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) allow for smooth,
efficient operation. It offers a significant boost in power,
with 345 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 300 lb-ft of torque at
3200 rpm.
The new full-time all-wheel drive electric shift is now optional
on Laramie and SLT models. The Tow/Haul mode is offered on
light duty models with automatic transmission.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The Ram 1500 uses a 40/20/40 split bench as the only front
seat style. Quad Cabs have an additional folding three-passenger
rear bench.
The optional Laramie package upgrades the top-line SLT model
with a new, all-chrome grille surround and chrome billet grille
center. It also features a unique and more distinctive leather
seat design, with higher contrast color seat inserts.
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