Ram Trucks retired the Ram 1500 Classic, along with the 5.7-liter Hemi engine, as production ends in 2024. This marks the end of an era for Ram and Dodge, as the Classic was a long-standing model that predated Ram becoming its own brand. The decision to discontinue the Classic was likely due to the outdated platform and the need to make room for newer, more advanced models in the lineup.
The Ram 1500 Classic had its roots in the fourth-generation Dodge Ram, which debuted in 2009. It was later rebranded as the Ram 1500 when the truck division split off from Dodge. The Classic was introduced in 2019 as a more budget-friendly option alongside the newer fifth-generation model. Despite its age, the Classic remained popular with buyers looking for a half-ton truck at a mid-size price point. However, with the rise of newer, more efficient engines, such as the twin-turbocharged I-6 in the 2025 Ram 1500, the Classic’s outdated platform and limited engine options became increasingly obsolete.
The decision to discontinue the Ram 1500 Classic also reflects the shifting preferences of consumers towards more advanced and fuel-efficient vehicles. The Classic’s sole engine option, the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8, was no longer able to meet the demands of modern buyers who are looking for more power and efficiency in their trucks. With newer models offering more advanced engines and features, such as the Hurricane inline-six with up to 540 horsepower in the 2025 Ram 1500, it made sense for Ram to retire the Classic and focus on more modern offerings.
In conclusion, the end of the Ram 1500 Classic marks the end of an era for Ram and Dodge, as the long-standing model is retired in favor of newer, more advanced vehicles. While the Classic served as a popular entry-level option for buyers, its outdated platform and limited engine options made it increasingly obsolete in the rapidly evolving truck market. With the introduction of newer models with more advanced engines and features, Ram is poised to continue its success in the competitive truck segment.