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A Missed Farewell: Ram 1500 Classic’s Quiet End in the U.S.

Why the American Market Deserves a Special Send-Off for the Iconic Pickup...

Robert S. Miller August 24, 2024

Limited Edition 2024 Ram 1500 Classic R/T. (Ram Brazil).

The Ram 1500 Classic has been a cornerstone of the Ram brand for over fifteen years. Since its debut as the fourth-generation Ram 1500 (DS) in 2008, this model has evolved but remained a staple in the lineup. With the introduction of the fifth-generation Ram 1500 (DT) in 2019, the DS model was rebranded as the Ram 1500 Classic, maintaining its position as the most affordable V8 full-size pickup in North America and other markets.

However, as the Ram 1500 Classic nears the end of its production run, we were disappointed by the lack of a special farewell edition for the American market. While Ram Brazil has celebrated the end of the model’s run with a special edition—the Ram 1500 Classic R/T—American buyers are left without a similar farewell.

The Brazilian Farewell: Ram 1500 Classic R/T –

In 2023, Ram introduced the Ram 1500 Classic to Brazil, where it quickly became a popular choice due to its affordability and luxurious features. Ram launched a limited edition Ram 1500 Classic R/T, capped at just 100 units, to mark the end of the model’s production in Brazil. This special edition has unique design elements like darkened headlights, an exclusive cross-shaped grille, and matte decals bed decals. Available in Diamond Black and Flame Red, each truck features a badge indicating its place in the limited series.

The Ram 1500 Classic R/T includes a special kit with a metal toolbox and a leather folder containing a certificate of acquisition and a letter from Juliano Machado, Vice President of the Ram brand for South America. This model pays homage to the legendary 5.7-liter (345 cubic-inch) HEMI® V8 engine, offering 400 horsepower and 556 Nm (410 lb-ft) of torque, paired with an 8-speed 8HP70 automatic transmission. The truck provides impressive performance with a towing capacity of 7,789 lbs (3,534 kg) and a cargo volume of 50.3 cubic feet (1,424 liters), alongside premium features such as an 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen and a premium 9-speaker Alpine sound system.

A Missed Opportunity in the American Market –

Despite the fanfare in Brazil, American consumers are left without a similar tribute to the Ram 1500 Classic. Considering that the fourth-generation Ram 1500 has been in production since 2008, the American market version of this model deserved a more notable send-off. The Ram 1500 Classic was the last of its kind to offer the 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 engine, and as such, a special edition in the U.S. would have been a fitting homage to its long history and enduring popularity.

The absence of a farewell edition in the American market feels like a missed opportunity. The Ram 1500 Classic has been a reliable and popular choice for many truck enthusiasts over the years. A special edition model could have celebrated its legacy and offered a unique, collectible vehicle for its loyal fan base.

Limited Edition 2024 Ram 1500 Classic R/T Image Gallery:

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bill burke Aug 24, 2024 #1

Right now Stellantis/Ram have much greater issues than saying good bye to the Ram Classic. Sorry for not shedding tears.
So that said, how do folks respond about my latest brainstorm. Not again Mopar Willy, another “Willyism” ! Yes, sorry again. It revolves around the Belvedere plant announcement. Here goes....
The Belvidere issue serves two purposes. First, it uses the fear factor to foster reluctant support for the UAW, which behind the scenes is working to push Belvedere in a new direction after the dog and pony show of outrage and opposition is dispersed with regards to keeping the plant off line longer. Purpose two is to give Stellantis time to bring new products that features ICE and Hybrid power to the plant that might include a sedan and two SUVs, possibly built off a Peugeot spin off. That could give Dodge and Chrysler up to three or four models all built off this shared platform in about two years. The Ram mid-size truck can now be moved to Mexico quickly without major opposition. Sinister as that might seem, I present here my personal experience as evidence. I represented a major union organization in NYC and let’s just say our “working relationship” was a lot cozier and mutually beneficial than it often appeared on the surface. Our cooperative ability to solve issues that were face saving and self promotional for both parties was always part of what seemed publicly contentious labor negotiations. But, news flash, I can not tell you how many agreements were reached over lunch and cocktails rather at the negotiation table. This slight of hand existed during my whole twelve years of elected tenure. I played the game too, sorry again. I suspect the same dynamic with Belvedere, kind of a love-hate relationship, with benefits.
Well, do you guys thing this brainstorm is worth a thought or two?
Two years from now we will have our answer and I’m betting on three or four products coming out of Belvedere and not a truck in the mix.
Call me cynical, call me delusional, but this is my aging brain at work for your enjoyment. No time to say sorry.

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NateFromMich Aug 24, 2024 #2

Stellantis seems to be starving all the North American brands of affordable products, and products in general. The only brand with anything like a full lineup is Jeep.
Killing off the ancient Classic makes sense, assuming you have a Dakota or something to replace it. What about a small van? They killed that off without a replacement too.
Killing off the Challenger and Charger makes sense, assuming you have a replacement available already, not eventually.
It's no wonder their sales suck - they have nothing to sell except $40k+ vehicles and none of those are new except the insanely expensive Wagoneer.

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patfromigh Aug 25, 2024 #3

All of the small vans from every brand went away. The market collapsed because of too much government interference. The socialist regime running things changed the rules for the chicken tax in the middle of the game. There will be another Ram PMC, but it is intended for the CARB states. Some here on this forum will not like the powertrain.

The automobile market is undergoing a seismic shift. The average transaction price is North of 40K and entry level is a little under 30K for the moment. If someone wants affordable they should buy a Nissan product before that brand collapses.