Used Ram Dealer in Lexington

The Ram Truck Legacy

Although the current Ram truck brand has only been around about 10 years, Ram trucks as an entity go back at least 40 years and are built on a legacy that stretches back even further. Dodge trucks have been available, under one name or another, since the 1930s and have long been renowned for performance and style. These were work trucks first and foremost, like most pickups with a long lineage, that were chosen by farmers, people in trades, and other professionals that needed a vehicle with the strength that they could rely on.

The name “Ram” goes back officially to 1980 when the Dodge Ram truck was revealed for the model year 1981. At that time, the Dodge Ram was Chrysler’s follow-up to the popular Dodge D series of trucks that had been available from the 1960s. Although “ram” hood ornaments had been available on Dodge vehicles from the 1930s to 1950s, the Dodge Ram truck rebranded this idea and gave it a new identity. The first generation was available as a standard “Ram” with two-wheel drive or as a “Power Ram” model with four-wheel drive.

Numerous engines were available for the Dodge Ram truck in the 1980s and early '90s, including an I-6, V6, and a couple of different V8 engines. A 5.9L Cummins diesel I-6 engine was available starting in 1989 and proved popular, offering impressive torque and performance. Despite its power, the first generation of the Dodge Ram had an older design and feel to it, which made it generally less popular than the Ford F-150 and Chevy pickup.

A second generation of the Dodge Ram kicked off with the model year 1994 and featured a redesigned cab and chassis with a bold, new look to it that was immediately acclaimed. It was Motor Trend’s Truck of the Year for 1994, and the fresh design made it a huge success compared to the first generation. During this time, the Dodge Ram trucks were re-categorized into the Ram 1500 for the full-size, light-duty option, as well as the Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty models.

For 2002, a third generation of the Dodge Ram was released and continued the previous generation’s success and popularity. Although there were a number of upgrades and improvements, it clearly took inspiration from the design of the second generation. The fourth generation launched in 2009, and in 2010 Chrysler decided to separate their pickup and performance divisions – so the Dodge Ram simply became the Ram truck.

While Ford and Chevy discontinued their manual transmissions leading up to 2010, Ram trucks retained the option for a manual, making it class exclusive to the Ram 1500. The available HEMI V8 engines and a Cummins Turbo-Diesel have been incredibly popular and proven once again that the Ram truck deserves its acclaim and legacy. A fifth-generation model launched to wide praise in 2019, though the fourth generation remained available as the Ram 1500 Classic. Today, Ram trucks are well known not only for the impressive power they deliver but for luxurious interiors that feature technology and sophistication beyond their competitors.

Ram Lineup Overview

The lineup of Ram trucks today is as good as it has ever been, so even if you are looking for a pre-owned model at your used Ram dealer near Lexington, that still benefits you. Many of the used models you find will be from the last five years or so, which means that the amazing lineup of models from this time gives you fantastic pickups to choose from. You do have a few different options available to you, so it helps to have a good sense of what is out there.

The Ram 1500 is the standard truck that you will find the most. It is a light-duty, full-size truck comparable in terms of overall size and performance to models like the Ford F-150 or the Chevy Silverado 1500. This is an amazing option if you are looking for a solid work truck since it is strong, reliable, and delivers terrific towing and payload capabilities.

Over the last few years, the Ram 1500 has really left the competition behind in terms of luxury and technology inside, including a stunning central Infotainment display, so this is a great choice for a mobile office.

You will also find the Ram 1500 Classic when looking at models at your used Ram dealer near Lexington. The Ram 1500 Classic is essentially the fourth generation of the Ram 1500, which has remained available since the fifth generation launched due to its popularity. It does not have all of the same features available as the Ram 1500, but it is a great choice to consider when looking at pre-owned models.

If you need greater power and performance, however, then look for a used Ram 2500 or Ram 3500 pickup. These are heavy-duty models that can deliver incredible payload and towing capacity, especially if you are looking to do some fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing. Specific capacities will depend on the model you are looking at, but the Ram 2500 is generally more powerful than the Ram 1500, and the Ram 3500 is stronger still.

Why Buy a Used Ram?

Ram trucks are among the most powerful, sophisticated, and reliable pickups on the road. Over the past few decades, Ram trucks have proven themselves time and again with bold designs and impressive engines, including available HEMI V8 and Turbo-Diesel engines, which deliver power that is hard to find elsewhere. Choosing a used Ram truck provides you with that incredible performance and some levels of luxury while also saving you some money. The dependability of a Ram is well known, so a pickup that has had a previous owner will still provide you with years of strong, reliable performance.

Find Your Used Ram Truck at Dan Cummins CDJR