2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel
What’s new
- The Classic is a continuation of the previous Ram 1500 being sold alongside the redesigned 2019 Ram 1500
- Reduced trim availability compared to last year
- New Warlock appearance package
- Diesel engine returns
- Part of the fourth Ram 1500 generation introduced for 2009
Pros & Cons
- Smooth-riding suspension provides plenty of comfort
- Quiet and attractive cabin
- Smooth and efficient eight-speed automatic transmission
- Limited feature availability compared to current 2019 Ram
- Missing many of the latest driver assist technologies
- Limited trim level selection in final year of construction
2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which 1500 Classic does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
A fully redesigned 2019 Ram 1500 is out, but the previous-generation truck is so good that even Ram can't let it go. As such, the company is keeping it going for one more year and calling it the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic.
The Classic is a stripped-down version of the previous-generation truck, with fewer available trim levels. Certainly, the redesigned truck is better. It has greater towing capacities, a stronger frame, and a revamped interior with new technology features. But if you like the old model, or if you want a relatively inexpensive truck that still competes with the newest rivals, this one could do just fine.
The 1500 Classic has limited engine availability. Just the standard 3.6-liter V6 and the 5.7-liter V8 are offered. But it has a big, comfortable interior and a great ride quality on the highway. There is a decent collection of features available, including the user-friendly 8.4-inch Uconnect system and heated front seats.
While the new Ram is a superior truck, the 2019 1500 Classic still has some significant appeal. Lower prices and a basic, no-frills attitude will certainly make this Ram a solid pick for some truck shoppers.
2019 Ram 1500 Classic models
The 2019 Ram 1500 Classic is basically a renamed and stripped-down 2018 Ram 1500. It's the same full-size pickup that was available in the previous model year, but with fewer high-end features available.
The regular cab (two doors) can seat three and is available with either a standard bed (6 feet 4 inches) or an extended bed (8 feet). The Quad Cab (four doors) can seat six and comes only with the standard bed. The crew cab (also four doors but with bigger rear doors) increases rear legroom and is available with either a short bed (5 feet 7 inches) or the standard bed.
There are only six trim levels: Tradesman, Express, Warlock, SLT,Big Horn/Lone Star and Laramie. Most trims come standard with a 3.6-liter V6 (305 horsepower, 269 lb-ft), with an option for the 5.7-liter V8 (395 hp, 410 lb-ft). A turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel engine (240 hp, 420 lb-ft) is optional on some models and standard on the top-trim Laramie. All engines are paired with an eight-speed transmission and can be had in either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
The Tradesman is the workhorse of the lineup, with minimal luxury accoutrements and amenities. Just about all of its exterior parts that aren't metal are black, but it does come with 17-inch steel wheels, a Class IV hitch receiver, a spray-in bedliner, air conditioning, a six-speaker audio system, two USB ports, a rearview camera, and cruise control.
Like the Tradesman, the Express is also a worker's truck. But it removes the hitch and bedliner (they are offered as options) and adds body-colored exterior trim, carpeting and 20-inch wheels. The Warlock adds a bit more flare and function, with equipment such as heavy-duty rear shock absorbers, tow hooks, LED foglights, rear parking sensors, special badges, and blacked-out exterior elements including emblems and headlight bezels. On top of the Express equipment, the SLT gets the bedliner back and offers more standard equipment such as alloy wheels and a 5-inch touchscreen display.
At the top of the Ram 1500 Classic lineup is the previously midlevel Big Horn (called Lone Star in Texas). It adds features such as a 115-volt power outlet, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote start, front and rear parking sensors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. Upgraded cloth seating with a power-adjustable driver's seat and a leather-wrapped steering wheel round things out.
The range-topping Laramie is powered exclusively by the diesel engine. Added features include 20-inch chrome wheels, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, an upgraded driver information screen, a heated steering wheel, leather upholstery, and heated, ventilated and power-adjustable front seats.
Despite the Ram 1500 Classic's bare-bones throwback nature, it does still have some optional extras. Available items include foglights, exterior side steps, bucket seats, adjustable cargo tie-downs, LED interior and bed lighting, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and a 10-speaker audio system.
Scorecard
| Overall | undefined / 5 |
Driving
Comfort
Seat comfort
Ride comfort
Noise & vibration
Climate control
Interior
Ease of use
Getting in/getting out
Roominess
Visibility
Quality
Utility
Technology
Sponsored cars related to the 1500 Classic
Features & Specs
| Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB 3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $48,900 |
| MPG | 19 city / 27 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 6 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 240 hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 6.3 ft SB 3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $45,500 |
| MPG | 20 city / 27 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 6 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 240 hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 5.6 ft SB 3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $45,200 |
| MPG | 20 city / 27 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 6 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 240 hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.3 ft SB 3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $49,200 |
| MPG | 19 city / 27 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 6 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 240 hp @ 3600 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite 1500 Classic safety features:
- Electronic Stability Control
- Helps maintain control of the truck in low-traction conditions. Uses the brakes to mitigate wheelslip and trailer sway.
- Side Curtain Airbags
- Helps mitigate side-impact injury to the driver and passengers by deploying from the area above the windows.
- ParkView and ParkSense
- Warns the driver through visual and audible cues when the truck is getting close enough to potentially impact an object.
NHTSA Overall Rating 4 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 4 / 5 |
| Driver | 4 / 5 |
| Passenger | 4 / 5 |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | Not Rated |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Back Seat | Not Rated |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | 4 / 5 |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | 19.8% |
Ram 1500 Classic vs. the competition
Ram 1500 Classic vs. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Even up against the completely redesigned 2019 Chevrolet Silverado, the Ram 1500 Classic is still a tough competitor. The Chevy, depending on what trim level you go with, certainly has more modern tech available and tow ratings are a bit higher. But at their respective top trim levels, there's a good case for the outgoing Ram 1500 Classic and the value it offers for the money.
Ram 1500 Classic vs. Nissan Titan
With an impressive warranty and a beefy, standard V8 powertrain, the Nissan Titan has a lot of basic truck appeal. It's priced pretty well, too. The Titan also has a comfortable ride on the highway, much like the 1500 Classic. But the Ram beats the Nissan when it comes to interior comfort and infotainment ease of use.
Ram 1500 Classic vs. Toyota Tundra
There are definite similarities between the Ram 1500 Classic and the Tundra. Like the Classic, the Toyota can be appealing thanks to its low pricing and loads of utility. However, the current Tundra is seriously dated. Even though the Ram is the "old" model, it's the one to choose in this matchup.
FAQ
Is the Ram 1500 Classic a good car?
What's new in the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic:
- The Classic is a continuation of the previous Ram 1500 being sold alongside the redesigned 2019 Ram 1500
- Reduced trim availability compared to last year
- New Warlock appearance package
- Diesel engine returns
- Part of the fourth Ram 1500 generation introduced for 2009
Is the Ram 1500 Classic reliable?
Is the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2019 Ram 1500 Classic?
The least-expensive 2019 Ram 1500 Classic is the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 5.6 ft SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $45,200.
Other versions include:
- Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A) which starts at $48,900
- Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 6.3 ft SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A) which starts at $45,500
- Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 5.6 ft SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A) which starts at $45,200
- Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.3 ft SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A) which starts at $49,200
What are the different models of Ram 1500 Classic?
More about the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic
2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel Overview
The 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel is offered in the following styles: Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A), Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 6.3 ft SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A), Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 5.6 ft SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A), and Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.3 ft SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 8A).
What do people think of the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2019 1500 Classic Diesel 4.5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 1500 Classic Diesel.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 1500 Classic Diesel featuring deep dives into trim levels including Laramie, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel here.Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel?
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesels are available in my area?
2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel Listings and Inventory
Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2019 [object Object] 1500 Classic Diesel for sale near you.
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Find a new Ram 1500 Classic for sale - 6 great deals out of 8 listings starting at $17,813.
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel and all available trim types: Laramie, Laramie, Laramie, etc. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Diesel?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Ram lease specials