The Dodge Ram 1500 Regular Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) with the 5.2-liter V8 engine and four-wheel drive was a mainstay of Dodge’s full-size pickup truck lineup from 1993 through 1998. Representing the second generation of the Ram series, these trucks were a significant departure from the previous generation, offering a more modern design and improved features. This particular configuration – the 5.2L V8 paired with a five-speed manual transmission and 4×4 – occupied a sweet spot in the lineup, providing a balance of capability, affordability, and relatively straightforward mechanicals. It was positioned as a workhorse truck, appealing to buyers who needed a robust vehicle for hauling and towing without the expense of the higher trim levels or the larger engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | RAM |
| Generation | Ram 1500 Regular Cab Long Bed (BR/BE) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.2 V8 (220 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 1993 |
| 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. |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2404 kg / 5299.91 lbs. |
| Length | 5692 mm / 224.09 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2017 mm / 79.41 in. |
| Height | 1895 mm / 74.61 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3429 mm / 135 in. |
| Approach angle | 30.5° |
| Departure angle | 24.8° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18.8° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Dependent spring suspension with anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle 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 was the 318 Magnum V8 engine, a 5.2-liter (318 cubic inch) powerplant known for its durability and relatively simple design. This engine utilized a cast iron block and cylinder heads, with a two-valve-per-cylinder overhead valve (OHV) configuration. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, improving efficiency and responsiveness compared to earlier carbureted engines. The 318 Magnum produced 220 horsepower at 4,400 rpm and 300 lb-ft of torque at 3,200 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience and potentially better fuel economy than the available automatic options. The transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards work, with a relatively low first gear for hauling heavy loads and a higher fifth gear for highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 1993-1998 Dodge Ram 1500 5.2L 4×4 with a manual transmission offered a distinctly truck-like driving experience. While not a performance machine, the 318 Magnum provided adequate power for most tasks. Acceleration was respectable, but the truck’s weight and the gearing of the manual transmission meant it wasn’t particularly quick. The real strength of this configuration lay in its ability to handle heavy loads and navigate challenging terrain. The four-wheel drive system, when engaged, provided excellent traction in slippery conditions. Compared to the larger 5.9L V8, the 5.2L offered a slightly more manageable power curve and better fuel economy. Compared to the diesel options, it lacked the low-end torque for serious towing, but was significantly less expensive to purchase and maintain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Long Bed Ram 1500 in this configuration typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features included a vinyl bench seat, basic instrumentation, and manual windows and locks. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as was a radio. The interior was designed for durability and ease of cleaning, rather than luxury. Higher trim levels, such as the SLT or Laramie, added features like cloth or leather upholstery, power windows and locks, and upgraded sound systems. However, the base model was the most popular choice for buyers prioritizing functionality and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The Ram 1500 utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consisted of a solid axle with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employed a leaf spring setup. This configuration was designed to handle heavy loads and provide a comfortable ride, although it wasn’t particularly refined by modern standards. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available, but not standard on all models. The truck’s relatively simple suspension and braking systems contributed to its ease of maintenance and repair.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Ram 1500, particularly in this 5.2L V8/manual transmission/4×4 configuration, was well-received by buyers looking for a capable and affordable full-size pickup. Critics praised its robust construction, comfortable ride (for a truck), and strong engine. However, some noted the interior was somewhat basic compared to competitors like the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado. Fuel economy was average for the class, and the truck’s size could make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces. Compared to the 5.9L V8, the 5.2L offered a better balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for everyday use.
Legacy
The 1993-1998 Dodge Ram 1500, and specifically the 5.2L V8 4×4 variant, has developed a reputation for reliability and longevity. The 318 Magnum engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, can last for hundreds of thousands of miles. Today, these trucks are readily available on the used car market at affordable prices. They remain popular choices for those seeking a capable and dependable work truck, or a classic American pickup with a simple, easy-to-maintain powertrain. While not as technologically advanced as modern trucks, the BR/BE Ram 1500 represents a solid and dependable era in pickup truck design.
