FCA Continues Offering Legacy Pickup As The Ram 1500 Classic

There’s little question that the new Ram 1500 represents a marked improvement over the model it replaces. But for the rest of this calendar year, FCA will continue offering the outgoing pickup as the Ram 1500 Classic.

The legacy Classic model will be offered in four trim levels, with three cab configuration, three bed lengths, two drivetrain setups and three engines. That presents a lot of choices for those looking for a good deal on a new pickup, particularly while Auburn Hills ramps up production of the new model.

“As we launch the all-new 2019 Ram 1500, we didn’t want to walk away from a key part of the light-duty truck market”, said Ram chief Mike Manley. “Ram will continue to produce the 1500 Classic targeted at entry and commercial buyers.”

Customers will be able to choose between Tradesman (pictured), Express, Big Horn, Lone Star and Special Services Vehicle (SSV) trim levels. They’ll be offered with the standard cab and either a 6’4” or 8-foot bed, the Quad Cab with the 6’4” bed, and the Crew Cab with the 5’7” or 6’4” bed.

Customers can also choose between the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 or the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 in 4×2 or 4×4 setups, with the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 to join the lineup as well. And there are three option packages on offer as well, including the Chrome Plus and SXT packs for the Tradesman and the Black Accent pack for the Express.

The order books will open sometime in the next few months and will remain open until the end of the year, when the Classic model will be phased out and the new model will take its place completely.