Used Ram 1500
When shopping for a pre-owned pickup, you need a machine that is powerful, dependable, and built to go the distance. Trucks are engineered for the world’s toughest jobs and most demanding adventures—and the Used RAM 1500 is a leader in both. If you are looking for a truck that delivers heavy-duty performance without the new-vehicle price tag, a pre-owned RAM 1500 is the ultimate solution.
Why Choose a Pre-Owned RAM 1500? RAM trucks are world-renowned for their longevity and grit, regardless of the model year. However, for many drivers, the "sweet spot" for value and technology is found in the 2010 to 2019 RAM 1500 model years. These trucks often offer:
Exceptional Pricing: Significant savings compared to newer models while still offering low mileage.
Modern Innovation: These years introduced some of the most advanced tech, safety, and convenience features in the industry.
Proven Durability: Whether it’s the legendary HEMI® V8 or the fuel-efficient EcoDiesel, these powertrains are designed to handle years of hard work.
Smart Tech and Unmatched Comfort
Because heavily integrated smart technology and advanced driver-assist features have become industry standards over the last decade, we highly recommend looking for a Used RAM 1500 from the last ten model years. These trucks bridge the gap between rugged utility and a modern "mobile office" feel, featuring intuitive infotainment systems and premium cabin materials that have made RAM a leader in interior luxury.
Whether you need a reliable workhorse for the job site or a capable 4x4 for your next off-road excursion, a Used RAM 1500 provides the perfect balance of heritage and innovation. Experience a truck that doesn't just get the job done—it makes the job easier.
RAM 1500 History: Safety and Reliability
For over half a decade, the RAM 1500 has consistently earned elite four- and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA. This track record is built on a foundation of advanced safety engineering that comes standard on nearly every Used RAM 1500 manufactured since 2014. These models are equipped with essential driver-assist technologies, including Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, and comprehensive Stability and Traction Control. With heavy-duty anti-lock disc brakes and Trailer Sway Control, the RAM 1500 ensures you remain in command, even when hauling your heaviest loads.
Furthermore, many Used RAM 1500 models from the 2014–2019 era feature the UConnect® telematics suite. This system provides an extra layer of security with automatic emergency service notifications and vehicle theft alerts, offering peace of mind for every journey.
Over the last ten years, the RAM 1500 has cemented its legacy as a durable, high-performance powerhouse that thrives under pressure. It is a highly practical vehicle that seamlessly integrates intelligent towing packages, premium entertainment, and proactive safety systems. This winning combination makes the RAM 1500 the premier choice for professional contractors and active families who refuse to compromise on security or capability.
Performance Without Compromise The '90s era was defined by the legendary Magnum engine lineup, featuring high-output V8s that established the RAM 1500 as a leader in raw power. This focus on durability and performance-heavy engineering transformed the RAM marque into a global symbol of American grit. But the RAM 1500 was never content with just being a work truck; it quickly evolved into a dominant off-road force. With 4x4 capability, specialized skid plates, and 4.10:1 axle ratios, the RAM 1500 became the go-to choice for those who demanded a truck ready for the great outdoors.
From Sports-Car Speed to Off-Road Dominance
In the early 2000s, RAM pushed the boundaries of physics with the iconic SRT-10. By stuffing a massive 8.3L Viper V10 into a half-ton frame, RAM created a 500-horsepower "sports truck" that left the competition in the rearview mirror. This era also saw the birth of the TRX4 trims, proving that the RAM 1500 was as versatile as it was fast.
As the 2010s arrived, the RAM 1500 adopted a new identity: the luxury pickup. Trims like the Laramie Longhorn and Limited introduced high-quality leather, sophisticated badging, and upscale comfort features that rivaled premium sedans. Whether you were looking for a rugged off-roader or a mobile executive suite, the RAM 1500 offered a configuration for every personality.
The Modern Apex: The RAM 1500 TRX
The pinnacle of this evolution arrived with the revival of the TRX for the 2021 model year. Known affectionately as the "T-Rex" of pickups, the RAM 1500 TRX is an ultra-high-performance beast. Featuring Launch Control and a specially tuned supercharged HEMI® V8, it is engineered to handle extreme off-road abuse while delivering supercar-level acceleration. Today, the RAM 1500 continues to adapt and evolve, forcing the market to recognize its position as the undisputed powerhouse of the pickup world.
RAM 1500 Generations
The Foundations: First and Second Generation (1981–2001)
The RAM legacy began as a disruptor. While the 1980s established the nameplate’s grit, it was the 1994 debut of the RAM 1500 that fundamentally changed the truck world forever. It introduced the iconic "big-rig" styling—featuring the massive cross-hair grille and muscular, dropped-fender lines—that made every other truck on the road look dated overnight. For the modern buyer, these generations represent the birth of the RAM identity: a truck that refuses to blend in.
Engineering the Edge: Third Generation (2002–2008)
In 2002, RAM proved that a workhorse could also be a precision machine. This generation introduced a completely new chassis and rack-and-pinion steering, giving the RAM 1500 car-like handling that the competition couldn't match. This era also saw the return of a legend: the 5.7L HEMI® V8. Whether you’re looking at a used RAM 1500 Sport or the track-ready SRT-10, this generation laid the groundwork for the high-horsepower, high-capability pickups we drive today.
The Tech Revolution: Fourth Generation (2009–2018)
The fourth generation transformed the RAM 1500 from a rugged tool into a sophisticated sanctuary. This era introduced the segment-exclusive coil-spring rear suspension (and later, class-leading air ride), delivering a ride quality so smooth it redefined the category. This is where the RAM 1500 became a tech leader, debuting the Uconnect® touchscreen, smartphone integration, and the fuel-efficient EcoDiesel V6. If you want a truck that feels modern, features premium leather in trims like the Laramie Longhorn, and works as hard as it plays, the fourth-gen RAM remains a benchmark.
The Modern Standard: Fifth Generation & Beyond (2019–Present)
The current fifth-generation RAM 1500 has officially ascended to the throne of the luxury pickup world. It’s a masterclass in innovation, featuring eTorque mild-hybrid technology that boosts efficiency without sacrificing a pound of towing capacity. Inside, you’ll find available 12-inch vertical touchscreens and a cabin so quiet and refined it has been named one of the best interiors in the world.
Today, whether you choose the high-value RAM 1500 Classic, the fuel-savvy Pentastar, or the earth-shaking TRX, you are driving the culmination of 40 years of engineering obsession. The RAM 1500 doesn’t just compete in the current generation—it leads it.
How Much Horsepower & Torques Does The RAM 1500 Have?
When you’re behind the wheel of a RAM 1500, performance isn't just a stat—it’s the backbone of every haul and highway merge. Because the RAM 1500 has evolved through several legendary powertrain phases over the last decade, your horsepower will depend on which engine is under the hood.
Whether you are hunting for the fuel-efficient Pentastar or the roar of a HEMI® V8, use this guide to find the perfect output for your needs:
3.6L Pentastar V6 (2013–Present): A masterclass in efficiency and reliability, this engine delivers a solid 305 HP and 269 lb-ft of torque. It’s the perfect balance for daily driving and light-duty tasks.
5.7L HEMI® V8 (2009–Present): The undisputed heavyweight of the lineup. Early versions (2009–2012) offer 390 HP, while the refined versions (2013–Present) push that to 395 HP and 410 lb-ft of torque. This is the go-to for serious towing and that iconic exhaust note.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6 (2014–Present): Designed for the long haul. While it provides a capable 240–260 HP, its real strength is the massive 420–480 lb-ft of torque, offering incredible low-end pulling power and best-in-class fuel range.
4.7L V8 (2009–2013): A rugged, "middle-ground" workhorse that produced 310 HP and 330 lb-ft of torque, providing a boost over standard V6 options of its era.
3.7L V6 (2009–2012): The classic entry-level powertrain, offering 215 HP and 235 lb-ft of torque for those who prioritize a straightforward, reliable utility truck.
Find Your Perfect Match
With such a diverse range of engineering, the RAM 1500 offers a personality for every driver. If you have a specific towing target or fuel economy goal in mind, knowing these specs helps you narrow down your search instantly. Always ask your specialist for the exact engine specs of the used RAM 1500 you’re eyeing to ensure it has the muscle to match your lifestyle.
How Much Does the RAM 1500 Tow?
Towing is the ultimate test of a truck's grit. Whether you are hauling a horse trailer, a weekend camper, or heavy equipment to the job site, the RAM 1500 is engineered to make heavy loads feel light.
Because towing capacity is a science, the total weight your used RAM 1500 can handle depends on the powertrain, axle ratio, and suspension package. To give you a head start on your search, here are the benchmark maximums for the most popular RAM engine options:
5.7L HEMI® V8: The heavy-hitter. Depending on the model year and configuration, this engine is a towing powerhouse, capable of pulling between 11,000 and 12,750 lbs. It is the gold standard for those who need maximum capability.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6: The long-distance champion. While it specializes in fuel efficiency, it doesn’t shy away from hard work, offering a robust towing capacity of up to 12,560 lbs in newer configurations thanks to its massive low-end torque.
3.6L Pentastar V6: Efficient and capable. This versatile engine is perfect for lighter trailers, boats, and recreational gear, typically topping out at a respectable 7,730 lbs.
4.7L V8 (Legacy Models): A rugged performer from the fourth-generation era, capable of handling loads up to 9,000+ lbs depending on the specific setup.
3.7L V6 (Legacy Models): A straightforward utility option with a maximum towing limit around 6,000 lbs for basic hauling needs.
The Details That Matter
Towing is about more than just the engine. Every detail—from the cab style (Crew Cab vs. Quad Cab) to the bed length and rear-axle ratio—plays a critical role in your truck’s "Max Tow" rating.
When shopping for a used RAM 1500 for sale, always consult with our specialists to confirm the exact ratings for the specific VIN you’re eyeing. We’ll help you match your truck to your trailer, ensuring you have the confidence to hit the road without ever worrying about the weight behind you.
Visit us at Dan Cummins Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Paris!
Proudly serving the Lexington area, Dan Cummins is your go-to dealership for all things RAM-related. We also carry new vehicles from Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep. Our team of auto experts is here to make the car-buying experience easy and stress-free. Whether you are searching for new or pre-owned models, we’ve got the best selection in the area for you to peruse through.
We encourage you to take a look at our site to get an idea of our current inventory. If you have a particular used model in mind that you just love, give us a call. We will answer any questions you may have about it and set up a time for you to give it a test drive. On the other hand, if you don't have a clear idea of what model you want, then stop by the dealership and let one of our salespeople help find you. Our inventory is vast, and we are happy to help you comb through the candidates to find the perfect match.
Our finance team is also ready to make sure you can afford your new car. We are ready to handle everything from vehicle trade-ins to loan and lease financing. You can even get pre-qualified in seconds using our website.
We don't just sell cars either. At our dealership, we take pride in being able to help you with anything car related. Our team of experts is trained to fix any issue your car may have and get you back on the road as fast as possible. If you are just looking to purchase some OEM truck parts, we can help with that too. Just schedule an appointment online for service, or fill out a parts request form.
No matter what you need in regards to your car, we at Dan Cummins are here to help. Give us a call or visit us today. We look forward to your visit!
Used vehicle pricing excludes tax, title and registration which must be paid by the purchaser. While great effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this site, errors do occur so please verify information with the dealer.
Max payload/towing estimate ratings shown. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload/towing weights. See dealer for details.