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Dodge Flexes Legendary HEMI(R) Muscle with the 2003.5 Dodge Ram 1500

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Khatir Soltani

345 Horsepower HEMI(R) Puts Ram in Pole Position

Dodge, the brand that defined the muscle car when it unleashed the legendary 426 Street HEMI(R), is bringing big HEMI muscle to light-duty trucks.

Dodge today announced the introduction of the Dodge Ram 1500 equipped with the 5.7-liter HEMI Magnum, the most powerful engine option offered in a mass produced light-duty pickup truck. The 5.7-liter HEMI Magnum delivers 345 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft. of torque accompanied by an unmistakable V-8 burble that can only be a HEMI.

"With the HEMI Magnum equipped Dodge Ram 1500 joining the all-new Dodge Ram Heavy Duty 2500 and 3500, Dodge has the strongest line-up of full-size trucks in the industry," said Richard O. Schaum, Executive Vice President - Product Development & Quality, Chrysler Group. "The new HEMI distinguishes Dodge from the competition by offering a monstrous 345 horsepower across our full range of trucks, not just special editions and sport packages."

Modern technology meets tried and true combustion with the all-new 5.7-liter HEMI Magnum. The use of the classic HEMI (hemispherical) head design creates optimal air flow, while twin spark plugs, direct ignition and Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) allow for smooth, efficient operation. Composite air-flow modules combine with cross-flow aluminum heads, splayed valves and investment cast rocker arms to deliver an awesome 100 horsepower increase and an additional 40 lb.-ft. of torque compared with the 5.9-liter Magnum.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada