Since their debut, RAM pickup trucks, formerly Dodge RAM, have carved a significant place in automotive history, especially in the USA and Europe. Evolving from basic work vehicles to symbols of muscle and luxury, RAM has consistently delivered impressive trucks since the first Dodge RAM in 1981. Celebrating AEC’s 2023 RAM model launch across Europe, we delve into a curated list of the top 10 Best Ram Trucks that have defined the brand’s legacy and continue to inspire awe among truck enthusiasts.
1. RAM D150: The Quintessential American Pickup
The RAM D150 perfectly embodies the spirit of the 1980s and 90s pickup truck. With its robust, boxy design and no-nonsense functionality, the D150 was a versatile workhorse equally at home on a farm or cruising down Main Street. Equipped with features like a limited-slip differential and a practical bench seat, it balanced utility with driver satisfaction. The heart of this classic was often a modified 360 ci / 5.9L Police-Engine-V8, delivering a solid 225 horsepower, ensuring it was as enjoyable to drive as it was capable for work. For many, the D150 remains a cherished example of a truly great, all-around RAM truck.
2. Dodge Power Wagon: The Original Off-Road Beast
The Dodge Power Wagon, introduced in 1945, is a true pioneer in four-wheel-drive trucks. While Dodge had experience with 4×4 trucks dating back to the 1930s, the post-World War II era saw the Power Wagon emerge as a civilian icon. Originally designed for forestry and livestock applications after its service in the U.S. Air Force, the Power Wagon was built for serious traction and transport. Early models featured reliable inline six-cylinder engines, with powerful V8 options becoming available in the early 1960s. Its four-speed manual transmission coupled with a two-speed four-wheel-drive transfer case made the Power Wagon unstoppable across any terrain, cementing its status as one of the best off-road RAM trucks ever created. The image showcases a Dodge Power Wagon navigating a rocky landscape, emphasizing its off-road prowess.
3. RAM SRT-10: The Viper-Powered Performance King
When it comes to sheer performance, the Dodge RAM SRT-10 reigns supreme as the ultimate performance pickup. This beast was equipped with the monstrous 8.3L V10 engine borrowed directly from the Dodge Viper supercar. Initially offered as a lightweight Regular Cab Short Bed, and later with a Crew Cab option, the SRT-10 was built for speed. NASCAR’s Brendan Gaughan etched its name in history, achieving an average speed of 154.587 mph over two counter-rotating “flying miles,” earning a Guinness World Record as the fastest production pickup truck. The RAM SRT-10 pictured here perfectly captures its sporty stance and performance-oriented design. For thrill-seekers, the SRT-10 is undoubtedly the best performance-focused RAM truck.
4. Li’l Red Express: A Bold and Fast Classic
In 1978, Dodge surprised the automotive world with the launch of the Li’l Red Express pickup truck. More than just visually striking, the Li’l Red Express was a performance marvel. In 1978, it outpaced all other American-made vehicles in 0 to 60 mph acceleration, achieving quarter-mile times in the 15-second range as verified by Car and Driver magazine. Its specially tuned High Performance 360 ci / 5.9L small block engine generated 225 horsepower at 3,800 rpm. Distinctive features included Hemi-style mufflers with a crossover pipe venting through vertical chrome “big-rig” style exhaust stacks behind the cab. Based on the Adventurer trim, the Li’l Red Express sported a vibrant ‘Canyon Red’ finish, accented by gold pinstriping decals, Goodyear tires with white lettering on Western Chrome wheels, chrome side running boards, and oak side body panels and tailgate. The image highlights the iconic styling of the Li’l Red Express, solidifying its place among the best and most unique RAM trucks.
5. 2021 RAM 1500 TRX: The Hellcat-Powered Desert Runner
The 2021 TRX marked a new era for light-duty pickups, setting an unprecedented benchmark for extreme performance. The RAM 1500 TRX is propelled by the supercharged 6.2L “Hellcat” Hemi-V8 engine, unleashing a staggering 702 horsepower, enabling a top speed of 118 miles per hour (190 km/h). Aggressive new fenders widen the body, accommodating exclusive 18-inch wheels shod with bespoke 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain tires. This combination, paired with a revolutionary suspension system and tuning calibrated for high-speed desert racing, delivers unparalleled performance both on-road and off-road. The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX, as depicted, is the epitome of a modern, high-performance RAM truck and a strong contender for the title of the best overall RAM truck in recent years.
6. Dodge M880 CUCV: The Military-Grade Workhorse
The Commercial Utility Cargo Vehicle (CUCV), or Dodge M880, was a dependable work truck widely used by the military throughout the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. Known as the W200 among European enthusiasts, these vehicles were admired for their simplicity and ease of maintenance. Powered by a robust stock 318 ci / 5.2L V8 engine paired with a Torqueflite four-wheel-drive system, the M880 produced a respectable 225 horsepower – significantly more than civilian D200 versions. Rated for 1 1/4 tons, the CUCV was a true truck in every sense. Its durability and straightforward design made the Dodge M880 CUCV a practical and reliable choice, and a solid example of a best-in-class work-focused RAM truck. The image showcases a classic Dodge W200, highlighting its rugged and utilitarian design.
7. Dodge RAM Daytona: NASCAR Inspired Style
The 2005 Dodge RAM Daytona instantly became a legend, drawing inspiration from the iconic 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona, the first NASCAR vehicle to break the 200 mph barrier. The Daytona pickup featured a striking 11-inch rear spoiler and was offered in distinctive “Go Mango” or “Silver Metallic” paint schemes, along with exclusive graphics, a sporty hood, and 20-inch chrome wheels. Available in regular cab or quad cab configurations, the Daytona was powered by the potent 5.7L Hemi engine, delivering 345 horsepower through a five-speed automatic transmission. With its bold styling cues and performance heritage, the Dodge RAM Daytona, pictured here with its signature spoiler, stands out as one of the most visually distinctive and best-styled RAM trucks.
8. 2021 RAM Power Wagon 2500: Celebrating a Legacy of Power
The RAM Power Wagon 2500 pays homage to the original, badass Power Wagons of the past. To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the legendary Power Wagon, RAM unveiled a Special Edition model. This truck boasted imposing looks with large wheels, a refined interior, and enhanced off-road capabilities. The special edition features a 416 horsepower, 6.4L V8 engine coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Visually distinguished by its unique grille with vertical struts and “Power Wagon 75 Years of Service” logos on the doors, it also includes off-road essentials like a 5.5-ton winch and 17-inch rims with 33-inch tires. The 2021 RAM Power Wagon 2500 successfully blends classic Power Wagon DNA with modern features, making it a worthy successor and one of the best modern RAM trucks for off-road enthusiasts.
9. Dodge RAM Rumble Bee: A Visual Buzz with Limited Edition Appeal
The 2004/05 Dodge RAM Rumble Bee was primarily a visual enhancement package for the 1500 SLT Regular Cab Short Bed pickups. Taking its name and styling cues from the 1968-1971 Dodge Super Bee muscle car, the Rumble Bee featured distinctive bumblebee stripes. Offered exclusively in black or “Solar Yellow,” it included “Rumble Bee” styling stripes, an air scoop, sill package, and 20-inch wheels, produced in limited numbers. While a concept with the same name emerged around 2013, it never reached production, making the original 2004/05 Rumble Bee a sought-after collector’s item. The image of the 2005 Rumble Bee showcases its unique styling and limited-edition appeal, solidifying its place as a best-looking and collectible RAM truck.
10. RAM 1500: The Modern Icon of Versatility
The current RAM 1500 is undeniably a fan favorite and a highly successful truck, consistently praised for its road presence and versatility. It offers an extensive range of trims and levels, from the luxurious Limited and Longhorn to the rugged Rebel and the practical Tradesman and Big Horn. Numerous special editions like the Elite Edition, Night Edition, and Built to Serve Edition further expand customer choices. The RAM 1500 is available with a powerful 5.7L Hemi V8 engine producing 395 horsepower, paired with a modern eight-speed automatic transmission. The four-door Crew Cab cabin provides ample interior space, along with premium features like a 19-speaker sound system and a vertically mounted 12-inch touchscreen. And for ultimate performance, the RAM 1500 TRX variant boasts a 6.2L V8 with 702 horsepower, excelling both on and off-road. The RAM 1500 pictured represents its modern design and broad appeal, making it arguably the best all-around RAM truck available today. Which RAM 1500 configuration is your personal favorite?
Explore our full 2023 RAM lineup at AEC to discover how you can own one of these iconic trucks.
