The Dodge Ram 1500 Regular Cab Short Bed (BR/BE) with the 5.2-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission represents a significant iteration of Dodge’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 1994 through 1998, this configuration occupied a middle ground within the second generation Ram lineup (1994-2002), offering a balance between capability and affordability. It was positioned as a workhorse truck, appealing to buyers who needed the strength of a V8 but didn’t require the higher trims or more powerful engine options available. This generation marked a departure from the previous boxy designs, introducing a more aerodynamic and modern aesthetic that would become a hallmark of Dodge trucks.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | RAM |
| Generation | Ram 1500 Regular Cab Short Bed (BR/BE) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.2 V8 (220 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 220 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 42.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 407 Nm @ 3200 rpm / 300.19 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 318 Magnum |
| Engine displacement | 5211 cm3 / 317.99 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.31 mm / 3.91 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 84.07 mm / 3.31 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l / 4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt |
| Coolant | 19 l / 20.08 US qt | 16.72 UK qt |
| Max. weight | 2903 kg / 6400.02 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l / 25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3674 kg / 8099.78 lbs. |
| Length | 5077 mm / 199.88 in. |
| Width | 2017 mm / 79.41 in. |
| Height | 1826 mm / 71.89 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3023 mm / 119.02 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.4 m / 40.68 ft. |
| Approach angle | 25.2° |
| Departure angle | 23.8° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18.4° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Ram 1500 variant is the 318 Magnum 5.2-liter V8 engine. This engine, a member of the LA series small-block V8 family, had been a staple of Dodge trucks for decades. It featured a cast iron block and cylinder heads, with a two-barrel throttle body fuel injection system. The OHV (Overhead Valve) valvetrain, while traditional, was known for its durability and simplicity. The 9.1:1 compression ratio was a compromise between power and fuel efficiency. The automatic transmission paired with this engine was typically a 42RE, a four-speed automatic known for its robustness. While not the most technologically advanced transmission, it was well-suited to the engine’s torque characteristics and the truck’s intended use. The transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards providing adequate pulling power at lower speeds, rather than prioritizing acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 220 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 5.2L V8 and 42RE automatic provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was modest, and passing maneuvers required planning. Compared to the higher-output 5.9L V8 or the more nimble manual transmission options, this configuration felt somewhat sluggish. However, the automatic transmission made it a comfortable and easy-to-drive truck, particularly in city traffic. The rear-wheel-drive configuration and leaf spring rear suspension provided a firm ride, especially when unladen, but also allowed for substantial payload capacity. The 42RE transmission’s shift points were calibrated for smooth operation and fuel economy, rather than aggressive performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Ram 1500 Regular Cab Short Bed with the 5.2L V8 automatic typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included a vinyl bench seat, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio. Power steering and power brakes were also standard. Options included upgraded upholstery (cloth or leather), a cassette or CD player, cruise control, and various convenience packages. The short bed configuration was popular for those who needed a truck bed for hauling but didn’t require the full length of a long bed. The Regular Cab configuration kept the price down, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Chassis & Braking
The chassis of the BR/BE Ram 1500 featured a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, offering a reasonable level of ride comfort. The rear suspension employed leaf springs, which were well-suited to carrying heavy loads. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with hydraulic power assist, providing responsive and relatively easy steering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1994-1998 Dodge Ram 1500 with the 5.2L V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received as a capable and reliable work truck. Critics noted its comfortable ride (for a truck) and its strong V8 engine. However, some criticized its relatively slow acceleration and its somewhat dated interior compared to some competitors. Compared to the 5.9L V8 models, this variant offered less power but better fuel economy. Compared to the manual transmission options, it sacrificed some performance for ease of use. The 5.2L automatic was often seen as a sweet spot for buyers who wanted a V8 truck without the higher price tag of the larger engine.
Legacy
The 318 Magnum 5.2L V8 and 42RE automatic transmission combination proved to be remarkably durable. Many of these trucks are still on the road today, a testament to their robust construction. While not known for exceptional fuel economy by modern standards, the powertrain was relatively reliable and relatively inexpensive to maintain. In the used car market, these Ram 1500s are often sought after by those looking for a classic American pickup truck that is still capable of performing everyday tasks. Parts availability remains good, making them a relatively easy vehicle to keep running. The BR/BE generation Ram 1500, particularly with this engine and transmission, represents a solid and dependable era in Dodge truck history.
