November 6, 2002

Dodge offers Hemi engine in Ram 1500 pickup

Las Vegas, Nevada - Dodge announced the introduction of a Dodge Ram 1500 pickup equipped with the 5.7-litre HEMI Magnum V8 - Dodge says it's the most powerful engine option offered in a mass produced light-duty pickup truck. The 5.7-litre HEMI Magnum delivers 345 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft. of torque.

"With the HEMI Magnum equipped Dodge Ram 1500 joining the all-new Dodge Ram Heavy Duty 2500 and 3500, Dodge has the strongest line-up of full-size trucks in the industry," said Richard O. Schaum, Executive Vice President - Product Development & Quality, Chrysler Group. "The new HEMI distinguishes Dodge from the competition by offering a monstrous 345 horsepower across our full range of trucks, not just special editions and sport packages."

The use of the classic HEMI (hemispherical) head design creates optimal air flow, while twin spark plugs, direct ignition and Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) allow for smooth, efficient operation. Composite air-flow modules combine with cross-flow aluminum heads, splayed valves and investment cast rocker arms to deliver an awesome 100 horsepower increase and an additional 40 lb.-ft. of torque compared with the 5.9-liter Magnum.

Fuel efficiency is also improved by 10 percent over the 5.9-litre, while the new HEMI Magnum engine is approximately 60 lbs. lighter in weight. The 5.7-litre HEMI Magnum debuted in the all-new Dodge Ram Heavy Duty 2500 and 3500 as the standard engine offering, and replaces the 5.9-litre Magnum V-8 in the entire Dodge Ram truck line-up.

The 5.7-litre HEMI Magnum is offered as an option and will be available with the five-speed automatic transmission. Chrome HEMI Magnum badging on the front fenders designate the new engine on all Dodge Ram pickup trucks. The 5.7-litre HEMI Magnum engine increases the Ram 1500's Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) by 500 lbs. to 14,000 lbs. versus the 5.9- litre Magnum equipped Ram 1500. The Gross Trailer Weight Rating (GTWR) increases by 550 lbs. to 9,200 lbs.

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