How much horsepower does a 1989 Dodge Ramcharger have?
The 1989 Dodge Ramcharger offered two V8 engine options, delivering roughly 170 horsepower from the 5.2-liter (318) and about 210 horsepower from the 5.9-liter (360); horsepower figures can vary slightly depending on rating method (SAE net vs gross) and equipment.
Engine options in 1989 Ramcharger
Below are the two engine configurations commonly associated with the 1989 Ramcharger and their approximate horsepower figures.
- 5.2 L (318) V8 — about 170 horsepower
- 5.9 L (360) V8 — about 210 horsepower
Horsepower numbers can vary by source and by how the rating was determined (net vs gross) or by emission controls installed on a particular vehicle.
How horsepower is measured and what it means for performance
Understanding the numbers helps explain how the Ramcharger would feel on the road. The engine’s output interacts with the vehicle’s weight, gearing, and drivetrain to determine acceleration and overall driving feel. In practice, the 5.9 L option would typically feel swifter than the 5.2 L, assuming similar specifications and condition.
Notes on rating methods
During the late 1980s, manufacturers typically reported SAE net horsepower, which is lower than the older gross ratings. Emissions controls and tuning can also influence the listed horsepower for a given engine.
Practical implications for drivers
For buyers or restorers, the choice between the two engines affects performance: the 5.9 L version generally offers stronger acceleration and higher rated power, while the 5.2 L provides adequate capability with potentially better fuel economy and lower maintenance costs depending on configuration.
Summary
In its 1989 lineup, the Dodge Ramcharger offered two V8 engines with horsepower ratings around 170 hp for the 5.2 L (318) and around 210 hp for the 5.9 L (360). These figures reflect typical SAE net ratings of the era and can vary by source and equipment. For historical curiosity or restoration, these numbers provide a helpful guide to the SUV’s performance characteristics from that year.
