Used 2021 Ram 1500 Classic Crew Cab

The 2021 Ram 1500 Classic full-size pickup seems unstoppable. The reason it’s called Classic is that this truck is from the previous generation. The current generation of Ram 1500, the fifth, launched for the 2019 model year. However, the fourth generation has been such a success that Ram still offers it — albeit in a smaller number of variants compared with the newer truck.

Why buy a 2021 Ram 1500 Classic instead of a new-generation model? Cost is probably the biggest reason. The Ram 1500 Classic starts at just over $30k, whereas the “other” 2021 Ram 1500 is priced from approximately $34k. And the Classic is for buyers who don’t want or need a really upscale interior or extreme off-roading ability.

There’s still quite a bit of mileage left in the 1500 Classic. Its lineup offers three trim levels, three choices of cabs, three bed lengths, and either a V6 or a V8 engine.

A coil spring rear suspension, instead of the traditional leaf spring setup on other pickups, is the thing that distinguishes the Ram 1500 Classic. It’s more sophisticated and delivers a smoother ride quality, whether the truck is laden or unladen.

The base engine is a gasoline V6 generating 269 lb-ft of torque. That’s a reasonable amount of muscle, but if there are heavy trailers to be towed, the 410 lb-ft of torque from the optional gasoline V8 is a better call. Maximum towing capacity is 10,610 pounds. And the maximum payload is 1,810 pounds.

A smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission is yet another highlight of the 1500 Classic’s driving experience.

The Tradesman model is, unsurprisingly, basic. It has vinyl seat and floor coverings, as does the mid-level Express. Only the top Warlock trim has cloth upholstery as standard.

For what is probably going to be a working vehicle, though, that’s absolutely fine. Drivers will appreciate touches like the rotary gear shift dial within easy reach of the right hand. It frees up space in the center console for three cup holders. Controls for the air conditioning system are nice and big, easily worked while wearing gloves.

The Regular cab has accommodation for three front occupants. The 6-seater Quad cab has 34.7 inches of rear legroom. And the Crew cab, with full-size rear doors, has a much more bearable 40.3 inches of rear legroom.

It probably looks a little dated now, compared with the shiny and new fifth-generation Ram 1500, but this Classic still has an authoritative presence and appears ready to take on the toughest job anyone’s going to throw at it.

Again, Tradesman trim is the least adorned, although it does offer some optional chrome. It also comes with 17-inch steel wheels. Express trim has 17-inch alloy wheels, and the Warlock rolls on 20-inch alloy wheels with a semi-gloss black finish. Across the lineup, the only colors that don’t cost extra are white and red.

The standard bed length is 76 inches. The optional long bed measures 96 inches. And a short bed available with the Crew cab is 67 inches long.

RAMBOX CARGO MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
An option we recommend highly to anyone who needs some security for their bed storage. This clever system includes lockable compartments, interior lighting, and drain holes for when there’s melted ice and/or wet items to deal with.

ELECTRONICS GROUP
This is an options package for all three Ram 1500 Classic trim levels, but arguably worth stretching the budget. It includes an 8.4-inch infotainment display (replacing the tiny 5-inch standard unit), AppleCarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, two USB ports, and satellite radio.

At its entry level, the 2021 Ram 1500 Classic Tradesman comes with rear-wheel drive and a V6 engine. Plus some basic features like hand-crank windows, manually adjustable side mirrors, manual locks, a steering wheel that adjusts for height only, locking tailgate, a 5-inch infotainment display, three USB ports, auxiliary audio input, AM/FM radio, and a 6-speaker sound system.

Remember, these 2021 Ram 1500 Classic trucks are among the least expensive new full-size pickups. So things like driver aids aren’t even on the menu.

There’s a choice of cabs (the Warlock is only available with the Quad or Crew cab) and bed lengths, plus the V8 engine (available at a highly reasonable $1,450) and all-wheel drive. Other options include a limited-slip rear differential, power windows, carpet, 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, trailer equipment, LED bed lighting, 115-volt outlet, CD player, side steps, rear sliding window, and a tonneau cover.

Warlock trim is also eligible for heated front seats, heated steering wheel, power-adjustable side mirrors, and a package that includes matte black 17-inch alloy wheels wearing all-terrain tires.

And there are the extras we’ve mentioned already, such as the RamBox cargo management system, spray-in bed liner, and the infotainment system upgrade.

The default engine in the 2021 Ram 1500 Classic range is a 3.6-liter V6 developing 305 horsepower. It’s a well-regarded unit used in several Chrysler/Jeep/Ram models, known for its refinement and muscle. The optional 5.7-liter V8 is similarly celebrated, making a forceful 395 horsepower.

Both engines connect to an 8-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive (RWD) as standard and all-wheel drive (AWD) on the options list. The Ram 1500 Classic also has active grille shutters as standard for optimum thermal and aerodynamic efficiency.

3.6-liter V6
305 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
269 lb-ft of torque @ 6,175 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/25 mpg (RWD), 16/23 mpg

5.7-liter V8
395 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm
410 lb-ft of torque @ 3,950 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/22 mpg/15/21 mpg