How many miles per gallon does a 1989 Dodge Ramcharger get?
The Ramcharger from 1989 typically achieves roughly 12–15 miles per gallon in city driving and about 16–20 miles per gallon on the highway, with actual results depending on engine choice and configuration. This is a historic vehicle, so numbers vary based on condition and how it’s used today.
In this article, we break down the main variables that influence fuel economy for this classic SUV, outline the two engine options offered that year, and describe how drivetrain and usage affect real-world mileage.
Key factors affecting fuel economy
Fuel economy on a Ramcharger is shaped by a mix of hardware and habits, including engine size and type, the presence of four-wheel drive, the transmission, tire size, payload, and how well the vehicle is maintained.
Engine options in 1989 Ramcharger
For 1989, most Ramchargers used one of two V8 engines. Here are the common configurations and their typical fuel-economy expectations:
- 5.2 L V8 (318 cid): Generally lower fuel use than the larger 360 engine. In mixed driving, expect roughly 12–15 mpg in the city and 17–20 mpg on the highway; 4x4 configurations will usually be a few mpg lower, especially in urban driving.
- 5.9 L V8 (360 cid): Larger displacement means higher fuel use. Typical figures are about 13–15 mpg in the city and 17–19 mpg on the highway; 4x4 versions tend to be lower in everyday driving.
Engine choice establishes the baseline for fuel economy; the 360 offers more power at the expense of higher consumption, while the 318 tends to be a bit more frugal in mixed conditions.
Drivetrain and usage factors
Beyond the engine, the Ramcharger’s drivetrain, transmission, and usage pattern play a large role in real-world mileage. The following factors often explain much of the variation you’ll see.
- 2WD vs 4WD: Four-wheel drive adds mechanical drag and can lower mpg by a noticeable margin in regular driving, with the impact most evident in city conditions and when towing or hauling.
- Transmission type: The era’s automatics were generally less efficient than later designs, and manual options (when present) can shift the mileage outlook depending on drive style and gearing.
- Tire size and gearing: Larger tires, heavier rims, and lower numeric gear ratios raise rolling resistance and engine workload, reducing mpg.
- Payload and towing: Carrying passengers or towing loads increases weight and engine demand, dropping fuel economy further.
Real-world numbers vary widely, but in practical terms a 360-powered Ramcharger with 4x4 is typically in the low-to-mid-teens combined, while a lighter 318-powered, two-wheel-drive version can approach the mid-to-upper-teens on the highway.
Summary
In short, the 1989 Dodge Ramcharger’s mpg is highly variable and depends on engine choice (318 vs 360), drivetrain (2WD vs 4x4), transmission, tires, payload, and condition. Typical combined mileage generally falls in the mid-teens, with highway figures higher and city driving lower. For anyone restoring or maintaining one today, real-world mileage will hinge largely on maintenance practices and how the vehicle is used.
How much horsepower did the 1989 Ramcharger have?
Fuel injection was added to the 360 cu in (5.9 L) V8 engine in 1989. Power output for the TBI 318 was 170 hp (127 kW; 172 PS) and 245 lb⋅ft (332 N⋅m) of torque.
How many miles per gallon does a 1989 7.3 Idi get?
13-14 mpg around town, as high as 18.6 mpg highway.
How much is a 1987 Dodge Ramcharger worth?
The value of a 1987 Dodge Ramcharger varies widely, but well-maintained models typically range from about $18,000 to $25,000, with prices potentially reaching higher for exceptionally pristine or rare examples. Lower-condition or project vehicles can be valued at a fraction of this amount, while some highly original or low-mileage examples have sold for over $21,000.
Factors affecting value
- Condition: Vehicles in excellent, original condition with minimal rust and wear are worth significantly more.
- Mileage: Low mileage, especially with verifiable history, increases value.
- Trim and features: Higher trims like the LE or SE, along with desirable options like a 4x4 drivetrain and air conditioning, command higher prices.
- History: A clean history with maintenance records and no accident history is essential for a higher valuation.
- Modifications: While some modifications can add value, originality is often preferred by collectors, potentially lowering the value unless the upgrades are high-quality and enhance the vehicle's appeal.
Examples of recent sales
- $21,111: A 4x4 with 41,000 original miles sold on Bring a Trailer in March 2024.
- $16,750: A similar 4x4 from March 2024, also with 41,000 original miles, sold for less.
- $24,900: A 1987 Dodge Ramcharger was listed for this price on eBay in a classified ad with a "Best Offer" option.
- $20,000: A 1987 Dodge Ramcharger with 54,936 miles and significant recent work was listed for this price on Autoguide.com.
- $21,900: A "time capsule" 4x4 with 1,869 miles was listed by Worldwide Vintage Autos.
How much is a 1989 Dodge Ramcharger worth?
The value of a 1989 Dodge Ramcharger varies widely, ranging from roughly $9,185 to over $44,000. The price depends heavily on condition, mileage, trim, and features, with a well-maintained or rare example fetching a higher price, while one with mechanical issues or a troubled history will be on the lower end. For a typical 1989 Ramcharger 150 LE in good condition, a value around $18,925 is a reasonable estimate.
Factors influencing value
- Condition: A well-maintained vehicle with a clean history is worth significantly more than one with extensive rust, damage, or needed repairs.
- Mileage: Lower mileage generally results in a higher value, though the overall condition is more important than mileage alone.
- Trim and options: The specific trim level (e.g., 150 vs. 100) and optional features, such as four-wheel drive, the 5.2L V8 engine, or a desirable factory option package, can increase the price.
- History: A vehicle with a clean title, no accident history, and a documented service history will command a higher price.
- Market demand: The current market and specific selling platform (e.g., auction vs. private sale) can influence the final price.
Example price points
- Lowest recent auction price: ~$9,185 for a 1989 150 LE with potential issues or extensive maintenance needs.
- Average good condition: ~$18,925 for a 1989 Ramcharger 150 LE with average specs and good condition.
- Highest recent auction price: ~$44,000 for a rare or exceptionally well-maintained example with desirable features.
