Also, pay attention to features. When buying a used truck, you may not get to pick all of the bells and whistles yourself, but that doesn't mean you can't get the truck you want. And even when purchasing a used truck, there's no sense in overpaying for features you don't even want. Don't jump on the first truck that might meet your needs - find the one that fits your needs perfectly.
There Is Nothing Like a Ram
There may be some confusion when it comes to the Ram. Is it "Dodge Ram" or just "Ram?" Today, the correct term is just "Ram." In 2009, Ram became a stand-alone brand under the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) family of manufacturers. But don't worry - Ram and Dodge are still very friendly. As stablemates under the FCA brand, Ram trucks now have the opportunity to develop independently of the Dodge brand.
It is true, however, that Ram started out as a Dodge brand. In 1981, the Ram was an actual ram - a hood ornament used by Dodge on its trucks and vans. In the Dodge lineup, "Ram" referred to a type of two-wheel drive vehicle, and "Power Ram" was a vehicle with four-wheel drive.
As far as the actual vehicles were concerned, Rams and Power Rams were only a bit different from the familiar Dodge D-series pickup truck. Changes included larger head and tail lights, an updated bench seat, and technology features that were very impressive in 1981, such as a cassette tape player, sliding rear cab window, air conditioning, and power door locks.
In 1993, Ram got a major power boost with a new 5.9L engine and redesigned engine components to provide more horsepower and torque. This package was known as the "Magnum" and became an early nod to the power and workmanlike attitude of future Rams. Another key introduction to the Ram line at this time was the Cummins diesel engine. Now a mainstay of the heavy-duty Ram lineup, an engine with this much capability for towing and handling heavy payloads switched up the game for pickup trucks.
The second generation of Dodge Ram arrived in 1994 to astounding popularity, with sales reaching nearly half a million each year throughout the generation. The all-new Ram featured several engine choices, including a 3.9L V6, a 5.2L V8, the coveted 5.9L V8, and the 5.9L inline-6 Cummins turbo-diesel. Dodge even added an incredible 8.0L V10 engine to the mix to provide a high-powered alternative to the diesel.
The third generation debuted at the 2001 Chicago Auto Show. The Ram 1500 model became available in the 2002 model year, with the 2500 and 3500 showing up just a year later. The Ram received a massive redesign and engineering overhaul from top to bottom, including the frame, interior, metal components, powertrain, suspension, and more. Not only is the branding from this generation more recognizable, but the powerful truck you see today finds its full departure from its light-duty roots in this generation, as well.
2009 was a big year for Ram, not only as it marked the launch of the fourth generation, but in that Ram now stood alone under the FCA umbrella. Ram redesigns through the early part of this generation focused on the interior. While the cabs of work trucks had historically been all function, drivers were looking for room for their families, seats that wouldn't wear out the back during long days on the road, and a little bit of fun to help pass the time. Ram responded by tinkering with the cab size options, updating the suspension, and adding future-focused technology to the cabin.
As its own brand, Ram can now focus on its own customers, which has led to several class-leading innovations. Ram is proud to have the highest percentage of older trucks on the road in its class, with incomparable loyalty from its drivers. The current fifth-generation Ram 1500 offers unmatched comfort and luxury, while the heavy-duty Ram 3500 provides best-in-class towing, demonstrating the full range of flexibility provided by the brand.
A used Ram truck is an investment in dependability and power, but it's also a wise choice for those looking for a smooth, comfortable ride, a cabin that will back you up on long, hard days, and a nod to the engineers who turned the concept of comfort and power into a truck that many drivers feel they can't live without.
Trade-in Your Current Truck
When shopping for a used Ram truck in Lexington and beyond, you may be asked about a possible trade-in. Your current truck may help you save big bucks on the purchase of your next vehicle. Trading in your vehicle at Dan Cummins of Georgetown is incredibly easy. In fact, you can value your trade-in without even leaving your house. Our online form is simple to complete - just enter the year, make, model, and a few other details. Once our staff receives this information, we'll be in touch to discuss the trade-in value of your current truck.
The value of your trade-in can be applied to the down payment on your next truck, which reduces the overall amount needed to finance your next big investment. Not only does this potentially lower your monthly payments on a new truck, but it can make things much easier for you. Instead of having to market your previous vehicle and find a buyer for it, you can simply drive into our dealership with one vehicle and leave with another.
