Download Print Press Kit: 2002 Dodge Ram 1500 Launch 2002 Dodge Ram 1500 - Performance and Capability Ride and Handling • The all-new frame makes the most use of hydroforming on any pickup. The frame is not only lighter, but more durable. Hydroforming allows for cross-members to be welded to the top and bottom of the side wells, which also improves torsional stiffness. • Ram's best-in-class ride and handling package is made even better through an all-new rack and pinion steering system. This new system provides reduced friction and thereby provides a more precise handling feel than recirculating ball systems. • The all-new torsion bar independent front suspension on four-wheel drive models will provide ride quality and quietness unmatched by other full-size pickups. Static ground clearance is improved over the link-coil system and solid axle, and dynamic ground clearance is superior to all competitors' independent suspension systems. Braking • The standard four-wheel disc brakes are the largest in the industry and continues to keep Ram best in class in terms of braking performance. Not only is stopping distance improved, but so is lining life and quietness. Wheels and Tires • Ram offers a host of standard and optional tire and wheel combinations, including the largest standard tire and wheel combination (17" wheels and P245/70R17 tires) in a light-duty full-size pickup. • Not only stunning in design, the 20-inch polished cast aluminum wheel and P275/55R20 tire is the largest available combination in the segment. • The all-new suspension design provides clearance for off-road tires up to 34 inches in diameter – by far the largest in the full-size segment. Powertrain • Performance has always been a key part of the Ram package. For 2002, Ram gets two new Magnum engines that are more powerful, yet more fuel efficient than the ones they replace: The all-new 3.7-liter Magnum V-6 produces 215 horsepower, 35 more than the 3.9-liter engine it replaces. The 4.7-liter Magnum V-8 delivers 240 horsepower, compared to 235 from the 5.2-liter V-8 on the 2001 Ram. Both engines get about one mile per gallon better fuel economy than their predecessors. • The 45RFE four-speed automatic transmission is new for Ram. It's the only transmission in its class with equal reverse and low gear ratios. It also has an alternate second gear that kicks in for towing and climbing situations. Towing and Hauling • Four cargo tie-down cleats bolted to the lower sides of the pickup box can sustain up to 1000 pounds each. • The bed is only slightly smaller, but there's no compromise to payload. In fact, the maximum payload on Quad Cab is increased to 1,750 pounds. • Towing is better on Regular Cab and Quad Cab. Both the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) are up on both models.