The 2009-2012 Ram 1500 with 5.7L Hemi V8 is the Best RAM Truck

When considering the most important factors for a truck – reliability, capability, power, and resale value – the 2009-2012 Ram 1500 equipped with the 5.7L Hemi V8 stands out as the best RAM truck model made. Here‘s a detailed look at why the 5.7L Hemi Ram 1500 is a cut above other RAM trucks throughout history.

An Overview of Standout RAM Trucks Over the Years

RAM trucks have evolved dramatically since the early Dodge Ram models first rolled off the line. Here are some of the most notable RAM trucks from each era:

The Originals (Pre-1994)

• 1974-1980 Dodge Ramcharger – The original Ram. Full-size SUV with serious off-road chops.

• 1981-1993 Dodge Ram – More refined and modern vs. older utility models. Excellent choice for work or play.

Second Generation (1994-2001)

• 1994-2001 Dodge Ram – Revolutionary redesign. First with optional V8. More space and comfort.

Third Generation (2002-2008)

• 2002-2008 Dodge Ram – Switch to quad cab and refined exterior styling. New HEMI V8 option.

Fourth Generation (2009-2020)

• 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 – Game-changing redesign. Coil spring rear suspension vastly improved ride quality.

Current Generation (2021-Present)

• 2021+ Ram 1500 – Doubling down on luxury with stunning tech-filled interiors. New mild hybrid options.

Why the 2009-2012 Ram 1500 5.7L Hemi is the Best

The 2009 redesign of the 1500 brought a hugely improved ride and many best-in-class capabilities. Adding the legendary 5.7L Hemi V8 to that winning formula resulted in what I consider the pinnacle RAM pickup. Here‘s why it‘s so great:

Ride Quality

The 2009 RAM 1500‘s switch to a coil spring rear suspension transformed what was a typical truck ride into a smooth, car-like ride quality. This improved comfort and handling substantially without sacrificing capability.

Power and Performance

The 5.7L Hemi V8 pumped out 390 horsepower and 407 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful base full-size truck engine at the time. It delivered strong acceleration and towing ability.

Efficiency

Despite having a big V8, the 5.7L Hemi 1500 still achieved a respectable 15 mpg city / 21 mpg highway thanks to cylinder deactivation technology.

Towing and Payload

With the Hemi V8, properly equipped 2009-2012 1500‘s could tow up to 10,450 lbs and haul up to 1,900 lbs in the bed – very impressive capabilities.

Comfort and Convenience

The interior was thoughtfully designed with high grade materials and options like a column shifter, lots of storage, and an easy-to-use Uconnect infotainment system.

Reliability

The 5.7L Hemi engine itself is highly reliable. And by 2012, most major bugs were worked out of the 2009 redesign, making this an all-around solid truck.

Resale Value

Even a decade later, the 2009-2012 Ram 1500 retains value well thanks to the desirability of the Hemi engine, coil spring suspension, and timeless styling.

RAM Generations Compared

How does the 2009-2012 Hemi Ram stack up numbers-wise against other key RAM truck generations? This table summarizes the specs:

The 4th generation Hemi clearly stands out as having an unmatched blend of power, capability, and efficiency. The current Rams offer more tech and even higher maximum tow ratings, but sacrifice some pure performance in doing so.

Why RAM Beats Ford and Chevy

The 2009-2012 Ram 1500 is a better truck than key competitors from Ford and Chevy for several reasons:

• More powerful and efficient engine – The 5.7L Hemi outguns the 5.3L V8‘s from Ford and Chevy while delivering better fuel economy.

• Smoother ride – The coil spring rear suspension gave Ram a huge advantage in ride comfort over competitors.

• Better tech – Uconnect was ahead of Ford‘s Sync and Chevy‘s MyLink infotainment systems in terms of usability.

• Higher quality interiors – The Ram featured more soft touch surfaces and had fewer hard plastic parts than Ford and Chevy trucks.

• Better braking performance – Ram‘s brakes consistently stopped shorter from 60 mph than comparable Ford and GM trucks.

So if you‘re cross-shopping full-size pickups, I strongly recommend test driving the 2009-2012 Ram 1500 before making your choice. You may just find this RAM outperforms the other guys.

The ONE Downside to the 2009-2012 Ram 1500

No vehicle is perfect, and the 2009-2012 Ram 1500 is no exception. The one key drawback to this truck is:

• Reliability issues – While better by 2012, the first model years of the redesign had some kinks to work out in terms of reliability. The most common issues related to the transmission, drivetrain, electrical system, and interior fit and finish.

So if buying this RAM, either budget for the possibility of some repairs, or try to find a later 2011 or 2012 model. That said, the 5.7L Hemi engine itself is generally very solid. Overall, this truck‘s strengths still far outweigh this sole weak spot.

Closing Thoughts on the Best Ram Trucks

RAM pickups continue to impress, with the latest models introducing hybrid technology and truly luxurious interiors. But in my opinion as an automotive expert, nothing quite beats the magic formula that was the 2009-2012 Ram 1500 with the Hemi V8. This special truck combined serious capability and performance with comfort, convenience, and strong value.

While newer Rams add more bells and whistles, I don‘t believe they achieve that same balance of strengths like the Hemi truck did. For shoppers who want power, payload, and everyday drivability, that 2009-2012 Ram 1500 remains hard to beat. And I predict it will hold its value better than most modern trucks.

So if you come across a well maintained 2009-2012 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi in your searches, take it for a test drive. You may just agree that this RAM outclasses even the latest models, and is a truck worth holding onto for the long haul. Let me know if you have any other questions – I‘m always happy to chat trucks!