2019 RAM 1500 Classic Tradesman

The 2019 Ram 1500 Classic is the previous-generation pickup sold alongside the new model, offering a familiar, proven full-size truck with a lower starting price. It competes directly with the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150, and GMC Sierra 1500, but stands apart with its coil-spring rear suspension for a smoother ride. The Classic drives with a composed, stable feel on the highway, and the available V8 provides confident passing power when loaded. Its coil-spring rear suspension delivers a noticeably more car-like ride than leaf-spring rivals, though heavy loads can make the rear feel a bit soft. Inside, the cabin is roomy and well-built, with a comfortable rear seat that makes it a practical family hauler as well as a work truck. The Tradesman is the base trim, so you get a no-frills work truck without the chrome and convenience features of the Big Horn or Laramie. Under the hood is a 3.0L V6 making 240 horsepower paired with an automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, which is fine for light hauling but won't win any drag races. Fuel economy is a strong point for a full-size truck at 23 mpg combined, and the standard spray-in bedliner means you can put it to work right away.