What years are the Magnum 5.2 and 5.9 V8s available?
The Magnum 5.2 L (318 cid) and 5.9 L (360 cid) V8s were offered primarily from the early 1990s through the early 2000s, with most Chrysler‑brand applications ending around the 2003 model year as newer powertrains took over. In practical terms, these engines were widely available from roughly 1992 to 2003, depending on the model and market.
Background on the Magnum family
In 1992, Chrysler introduced the Magnum line to replace the older LA-series V8s, aiming for improved durability and performance. The 5.2 L (318) and 5.9 L (360) Magnums became two of the most commonly used variants, powering a range of Dodge and Jeep vehicles — including pickups, SUVs, and larger passenger models — throughout the 1990s and into the early 2000s. These engines used a traditional pushrod design and were favored for their solid low‑end torque and broad availability.
Availability by model and year
Below is a broad guide to when the two Magnum V8s were commonly offered across Dodge/Chrysler models; exact years vary by vehicle and market.
- 5.2 L Magnum (318 cid) — Introduced in 1992 as part of the Magnum family; widely used in Dodge Ram pickups, the Dakota, Durango, and Grand Cherokee through much of the 1990s and into the early 2000s. Availability typically spans the 1992–2002/2003 window, depending on the model.
- 5.9 L Magnum (360 cid) — Also introduced in 1992; used across a similar range of Dodge trucks and SUVs during the same period, with production tapering off in the early 2000s and varying by model (roughly 1992–2002/2003).
Both engines were gradually phased out as Chrysler introduced newer powertrains such as the 5.7 L Hemi in the early 2000s. Availability by model year therefore generally ends around 2002–2003, though some applications persisted longer depending on configuration and market.
End of production and transition to newer powertrains
The Magnum family gave way to newer engines as part of Chrysler’s modernization effort in the early 2000s. The 5.7 Hemi began appearing in 2003, with many models adopting the newer powerplant across trucks and SUVs. This shift marked the end of new automotive production for the 5.2 and 5.9 Magnums, though many used examples remained on the road for years afterward.
Notes for enthusiasts and buyers
For collectors and drivers seeking these engines today, maintenance and parts availability are strong in the aftermarket, but exact compatibility varies by year and model. Verifying the specific year, model, and configuration is important when assessing a vehicle with a Magnum 5.2 or 5.9 under the hood.
Summary
In essence, the Magnum 5.2 L (318) and 5.9 L (360) V8s were widely available from the early 1990s up through the early 2000s, with most production ending by 2003 as Chrysler shifted to newer powertrains. Availability depended on the exact model and market, so checking the specific vehicle year and configuration is essential for accuracy.
