Here’s an interesting question: What’s the cheapest way to get into a HEMI V8-powered vehicle? Is it more budget friendly to choose a powerful sedan or a Ram truck that shares the same thing? You might assume that a larger truck would be more expensive than a car. But the truth is, Dodge doesn’t offer V8 engines in the cheapest trim levels. The lowest dollar way to get a HEMI is to pick up the cheapest Ram work truck, then pay to upgrade to the 5.7-liter HEMI V8.
What is the cheapest Dodge with a HEMI V8 engine?
Each engine available in a Dodge muscle car or SUV comes in a different trim level. For example, the Charger R/T Trim, Durango and Challenger feature an A. At $39,780, the Challenger R/T is the cheapest Dodge V8 you can buy.
The truck is the half-ton Ram 1500 “Classic” truck. The 2023 Ram Classic starts at $30,695. This MSRP is for a 2-door, 2-door work truck with a V6 engine. But you can upgrade it with a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 for an additional $2,495.
When Ram redesigned its half-ton pickup truck for the 2019 model year, it ditched the two-door “Regular Cab” configuration. They also came up with much better interior materials. The result is that the 2023 Ram 1500 has an MSRP of $37,410. The automaker knew this would be a little steep for fleet truck owners and some drivers on a tight budget, so it’s building new fourth-generation trucks badged as the Ram 1500 Classic.
So, the cheapest HEMI-powered vehicle available in 2023 is the two-wheel-drive Ram 1500 “Classic” regular cab two-door, with the V8 upgrade, at $33,190. Don’t forget that this is before the $1,895 destination fee you’ll pay at any Ram dealership. Some agents will also charge additional fees, and you will need to pay a registration fee as well.
Is the Ram 1500 Classic a Good Option for an Affordable HEMI V8?
There may not be many people shopping for Dodge Challengers and Ram 1500 Classic trucks. But if you’re considering both, here’s what you should know. Obviously, the Challenger is a two-door coupe. The regular cab Ram Classic also has two doors, but no rear bench seat. You can upgrade this two to four door at a cost.
Currently, you can buy a Dodge Challenger with a manual transmission, but that isn’t an option on any full-size Ram truck sold in the United States, and you’ll have to purchase that option.
Finally, you might think the Challenger is a lot lighter. But it’s only a little lighter. The 2023 Dodge Challenger weighs between 3,841 and 4,415 lbs. The lightest Ram Classic comes in at £4,693.
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