1997 Dodge Ram 3500 Chassis Review (continued)
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Driving Impressions

Engine choices include the base 3.9-liter V6. The $590 optional 5.2-liter V8 (standard on the 3500 models) produces 225 hp at 4400 rpm and 295 lb.-ft. of torque at 3200 rpm. The $860 optional ($270 on 3500 models) 5.9-liter V8 produces 235 hp at 4000 rpm and 330 lb.-ft. of torque at 3000 rpm. No diesel is available, but a compressed natural gas engine is an option.

A three-speed automatic is available, but the four-speed automatic overdrive transmission drives nicer, gets about 4 mpg better fuel economy on the highway and is much better equipped to handle heavy loads and adverse conditions. Fuel economy barely suffers with the 5.2-liter engine option on 1500 models when it is ordered with the four-speed automatic because the overdrive gear reduces rpm at highway speeds.