The 1986 Dodge Ram truck represents a significant chapter in the history of American pickup trucks. This generation marked a shift in design and engineering, paving the way for the powerful and enduring Ram trucks we know today. This deep dive explores the 1986 model, covering its key features, variations, and lasting legacy.
Design and Styling: A New Era for Dodge Trucks
The '86 Dodge Ram boasted a redesigned body, a departure from its predecessors. While still retaining a distinctly truck-like appearance, the styling cues were more aerodynamic and modern than previous models. This included a more sloped hood and a redesigned grille, lending a more aggressive stance. The overall design was robust, reflecting the truck's intended purpose – hard work and dependable performance.
Key Exterior Features:
- Boxy but Refined: The boxy design, a hallmark of trucks of that era, was softened with smoother lines and less angular features.
- Updated Grille: The grille featured a distinct, horizontal bar design, contributing to the truck's updated look.
- Functional Design: The design emphasized functionality, with easy access to the bed and robust construction for durability.
Performance and Mechanicals: Under the Hood
The 1986 Dodge Ram offered a range of powerful engines, catering to different needs and preferences. Buyers could choose from a variety of V6 and V8 options, providing a good balance between power and fuel efficiency (relative to the era's standards). The availability of different drivetrains – 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive – further enhanced the versatility of the truck.
Engine Options:
- V6: Offered a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate power for everyday tasks.
- V8: Provided substantial power for heavier loads and towing applications. Different displacements were available, offering a range of performance.
Interior and Comfort: A Driver-Focused Cabin
While not known for luxurious interiors, the 1986 Dodge Ram provided a functional and relatively comfortable cabin for its time. The focus was on practicality and durability, with materials chosen for their resilience. The dashboard was straightforward and easy to navigate, ensuring drivers could focus on the road.
Interior Highlights:
- Durable Materials: Built to withstand the rigors of daily use.
- Functional Layout: Controls were easily accessible and intuitive.
- Simple but Effective: The interior prioritized functionality over luxury.
Variations and Trims: Choosing Your Ram
The 1986 Dodge Ram was available in various trims and configurations, allowing buyers to tailor the truck to their specific requirements. These options included different cab styles (regular cab, extended cab), bed lengths, and engine choices. This broad range of options ensured there was a Ram to suit a wide variety of applications, from light-duty work trucks to more robust heavy-duty models.
Trim Levels: (Specific details on trim levels would require further research into original brochures and documentation)
- Base Model: Offered essential features at an affordable price.
- Higher Trims: Included additional features such as upgraded interiors and more powerful engines.
Legacy and Collectibility: A Classic Today
The 1986 Dodge Ram holds a special place in the hearts of many truck enthusiasts. Its blend of ruggedness, dependability, and distinctive styling has secured its status as a sought-after classic. While not as highly prized as some other classic trucks, its historical significance and relatively affordable pricing make it an attractive option for collectors and enthusiasts alike. The 1986 Dodge Ram represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Dodge Ram line, bridging the gap between older designs and the more modern trucks that followed. Its legacy lives on in the spirit of today's powerful and versatile Ram trucks.
