Loading

What year did the Ram 50 come out?


The Ram 50, a compact pickup truck, holds a special place in automotive history as a versatile and reliable vehicle. Introduced as a rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Mighty Max, the Ram 50 was Dodge's answer to the growing demand for smaller, fuel-efficient trucks in the United States. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of the Ram 50 and its debut year.


The Introduction of the Ram 50


The Dodge Ram 50 was first introduced in the year 1979. This compact pickup truck was a result of a partnership between Dodge and Mitsubishi, allowing Dodge to offer a smaller truck in its lineup without developing one from scratch. The Ram 50 was essentially a rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Forte, which was sold internationally under various names.


Why Was the Ram 50 Introduced?


The late 1970s marked a shift in consumer preferences due to rising fuel prices and changing regulations. Dodge recognized the need for a smaller, more fuel-efficient truck to complement its lineup of larger pickups. The Ram 50 was introduced to meet this demand and compete with other compact trucks like the Toyota Hilux and Ford Courier. Here are some key reasons for its introduction:



  • Fuel Efficiency: The compact size of the Ram 50 made it more fuel-efficient compared to full-size trucks.

  • Affordability: It provided a cost-effective option for consumers who needed a truck but didn’t require the power or size of a full-size model.

  • Versatility: The Ram 50 was available in various configurations, including two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, making it suitable for a range of tasks.


The Legacy of the Ram 50


The Ram 50 remained in production until 1994, when it was replaced by the Dodge Dakota, a midsize truck developed entirely by Dodge. Despite its discontinuation, the Ram 50 is remembered for its practicality and reliability, and it continues to have a loyal following among enthusiasts and collectors.


Whether you’re a fan of classic trucks or simply curious about automotive history, the Ram 50 stands as a testament to Dodge’s ability to adapt to changing market demands. Its introduction in 1979 marked an important chapter in the evolution of compact pickup trucks.


Frequently Asked Questions

How much horsepower does a 1988 Dodge Ram 50 have?


This 2.6-liter Mitsubishi four-cylinder under this 1988 Ram 50's hood looks and runs like new, despite having delivered more than 100,000 miles. It's rated for 109 hp at 5,000 rpm/143 lb. -ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm and ruggedly built, with an iron block, forged rods, and a forged crankshaft.



Which year of the Ram was best?


Reliable Ram Trucks by Year: The Top Five Ram 1500 Years to Buy

  • 2013 Ram 1300: New Chassis, Engines & Ride Heights.
  • 2014 Ram 1500: Long-Term Reliable Performance.
  • 2020 Ram 1500: Elevated Fifth-Generation Performance.
  • 2021 Ram 1500: An Award-Winning Year.
  • 2023 Ram 1500: The Legacy of High Reliability Continues.



What is high mileage for a Dodge Ram?


High mileage for the Dodge RAM 1500 is 200,000-300,000 miles, and high mileage is around 150,000 miles. This good mileage should be 175,000 miles. Your Dodge RAM 1500 should have no trouble making it to this point without flaws if you're taking decent care of the vehicle.



What engine is in a 1989 Dodge Ram 50?


2.0-liter engine
This Ram 50 4x2 standard bed is powered by an able 2.0-liter engine and comes packed with value features. Carpeting, full headliner, tinted glass, adjustable steering column, dome light, dual swing-away outside rearview mirrors and power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes are standard on all Ram 50's.



What is the gas mileage on a 1988 Ram 50?


Based on data from 2 vehicles, 14 fuel-ups and 3,486 miles of driving, the 1988 Dodge Ram 50 gets a combined Avg MPG of 17.40 with a 0.10 MPG margin of error.



How many miles per gallon does a 1983 Dodge Ram 50 get?


26.83
Based on data from 1 vehicles, 7 fuel-ups and 2,212 miles of driving, the 1983 Dodge Ram 50 gets a combined Avg MPG of 26.83 with a 1.16 MPG margin of error.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.