How many miles per gallon does a 1991 Dodge Ram 250 get?
In typical mixed driving, gasoline-powered 1991 Ram 250 pickups average about 12–16 miles per gallon, while the diesel-equipped versions can reach roughly 18–22 mpg, with real-world results varying based on engine, drivetrain, gearing, and load.
The 1991 Ram 250 offered several powertrains and configurations, including two gasoline V8 options—the 5.2 L (318) and the 5.9 L (360)—and, for some models, a Cummins diesel. MPG depends on whether the truck is two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, transmission type, axle ratio, and overall condition. Below is a breakdown by engine type and drivetrain.
Gasoline engine options and typical fuel economy
The following figures reflect common gasoline configurations for the 1991 Ram 250 and illustrate typical miles-per-gallon ranges for these setups. Real-world numbers vary based on maintenance, cargo, and driving style.
- 5.2 L (318) V8, 2WD: roughly 14–16 mpg combined; highway around 17–19 mpg; city about 12–14 mpg.
- 5.2 L (318) V8, 4WD: roughly 12–14 mpg combined; highway around 15–17 mpg; city about 11–13 mpg.
- 5.9 L (360) V8, 2WD: roughly 12–14 mpg combined; highway around 15–17 mpg; city about 11–13 mpg.
- 5.9 L (360) V8, 4WD: roughly 11–13 mpg combined; highway around 14–16 mpg; city about 10–12 mpg.
Conclusion for gasoline options: Real-world mileage for gasoline Rams in 1991 typically lands in the low-to-mid teens for combined driving, with 2WD configurations usually edging out 4WD in efficiency when conditions are steady and unloaded.
Diesel option (Cummins 6BT 5.9L)
Diesel Rams benefited from the torque and efficiency of the Cummins engine, especially on highway cruising. The figures below reflect typical ranges for common diesel setups. Actual results depend on load, maintenance, and gearing.
- Cummins 6BT diesel, 2WD: approximately 18–22 mpg highway; 16–18 mpg combined; city around 14–16 mpg depending on load and speed.
- Cummins 6BT diesel, 4WD: approximately 17–20 mpg highway; 15–17 mpg combined; city around 13–15 mpg depending on load and gearing.
Conclusion for diesel: Diesel Ram 250s generally offer better highway efficiency than their gasoline counterparts, though city figures can be lower due to payload and operation at lower speeds.
Factors that influence MPG in a 1991 Ram 250
Beyond engine choice, several variables can swing miles-per-gallon significantly. These include the truck’s weight, axle gearing, transmission type, maintenance history, tire size, and driving habits. A well-maintained powertrain and properly inflated tires help maximize efficiency, while heavy loads and off-road use can reduce it.
Summary
For a 1991 Dodge Ram 250, mpg depends primarily on engine and configuration. Gasoline versions typically fall in the low-to-mid-teens in mixed use, while diesel versions can reach the high-teens to low-twenties on highway driving. Real-world results vary by drivetrain (2WD vs. 4WD), transmission, axle ratios, and overall condition. If you own or are considering one, checking the specific truck’s configuration and performing a real-world fuel economy test will give you the most accurate figure.
