Used 1987 Dodge RAM 100 Base

1987 Dodge RAM 100 Overview

The 1987 Dodge RAM 100 represented a significant evolution in Dodge's pickup truck lineup, building upon the popular "cubes" design introduced in the previous generation. This iteration aimed to blend rugged utility with increasing levels of comfort and refinement, appealing to a broader audience than just traditional work truck buyers.

Highlights

• Engine Options: The 1987 RAM 100 offered a choice of capable powertrains to suit various needs.
  • 3.9L V6 (Magnum): This engine provided a good balance of power and fuel efficiency for everyday hauling and commuting. It was a step up in performance from the base inline-six in some earlier models, offering more torque.
  • 5.2L V8 (318 Magnum): For those requiring more muscle for towing or heavier loads, the optional 5.2L V8 delivered robust performance and was a popular choice for its reliability and grunt.
  • 5.9L V8 (360 Magnum) - Less Common for 100 Series: While more commonly found in heavier duty RAM models, some sources indicate the 360 V8 might have been available on specialized or optioned-up 100 series trucks, offering substantial power. Note: Confirmation of the 360 V8 being standard or widely available on the 100 series specifically in 1987 should be verified with detailed specifications.
• Safety Features: While safety standards were less stringent than today, the 1987 RAM 100 included features aimed at driver and passenger protection:
  • Seat Belts: Standard lap and shoulder belts were equipped to restrain occupants during sudden stops or collisions.
  • Collapsible Steering Column: Designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a frontal collision, reducing the risk of severe chest injuries.
  • Dual-Circuit Braking System: This redundant system ensured that if one brake circuit failed, the other would still provide braking power to at least some wheels, improving overall stopping safety.
• Trim Levels: Dodge offered a hierarchy of trims to cater to different buyer preferences and budgets.
  • BASE (Standard Work Truck): This trim focused on essential functionality and durability. It typically featured a more spartan interior, manual windows and locks, and fewer creature comforts, making it an ideal workhorse.
  • SE (Special Edition): The SE trim added a layer of comfort and style. It often included upgraded interior materials, carpeting, more comfortable seating, power steering, and sometimes power brakes, making it more suitable for daily driving.
  • LE (Luxury Edition) / Royal SE: These higher trims offered the most amenities. Expect enhanced interior appointments like upgraded upholstery, more sound deadening, a better stereo system, and potentially features like air conditioning, power windows, and power door locks, bringing the truck closer to a comfortable car-like experience.
• Other Notable Aspects:
  • Revised Aerodynamics: Compared to its predecessors, the 1987 RAM featured a more aerodynamic front-end design, including flush headlights and a more integrated grille, improving fuel efficiency and reducing wind noise.
  • Rear-Wheel Drive Dominance: The vast majority of RAM 100s were rear-wheel drive, prioritizing payload and towing capacity. Four-wheel drive was available on higher trim levels and often paired with the V8 engines for enhanced traction.
  • Robust Frame and Suspension: Built on a sturdy ladder frame, the RAM 100 was engineered for durability and capable of handling heavy loads and rough terrain.

What to Expect

Owning a 1987 Dodge RAM 100 is generally an experience rooted in its utilitarian nature. Expect a truck that is built to last, with a straightforward mechanical design that makes many repairs relatively accessible.

• Maintenance: Routine maintenance will involve typical checks for oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid levels. As these trucks age, common issues might include wear and tear on suspension components (bushings, ball joints), exhaust system corrosion, and potential electrical gremlins in older wiring. The Magnum engines are known for their resilience, but like any older vehicle, regular attention is key. Parts availability is generally good, especially for common maintenance items.
• Insurance: Insurance costs for a 1987 RAM 100 will vary based on your driving record, location, and the coverage you choose. As an older vehicle with a lower market value, comprehensive and collision coverage might be less of a priority for some owners, leading to lower premiums. However, if used for commercial purposes or if it's a highly original and well-maintained example, specialized classic car insurance might be an option.

Potential Considerations

While the 1987 RAM 100 is a capable and often reliable truck, buyers should be aware of a few potential drawbacks inherent to vehicles of this era.

• Rust: This is perhaps the most significant consideration for any vehicle from the 1980s, especially trucks. Rust can form on the frame, body panels (especially wheel wells, rocker panels, and cab corners), and undercarriage. Thorough inspection is crucial.
• Interior Wear and Tear: Plastic components, upholstery, and dashboard materials can show signs of age, including cracking, fading, and general wear.
• Braking Performance: While equipped with dual-circuit brakes, the overall braking performance might not be as sharp or responsive as modern trucks, especially when heavily loaded.
• Fuel Economy: The V8 engines, while powerful, are not known for exceptional fuel efficiency by today's standards. The 3.9L V6 offers a better compromise, but still won't rival contemporary compact cars.
• Ride Comfort: While trims like the LE offered some improvements, the ride quality, especially for the base models, can be firm and utilitarian, particularly when unloaded.

Overall Summary

The 1987 Dodge RAM 100 stands as a testament to the robust engineering and practical design that defined American pickup trucks in the late 1980s. It offered a compelling blend of capability, with reliable Magnum engines and a sturdy chassis, and increasing levels of comfort as buyers opted for higher trim levels. While age brings with it potential maintenance needs, particularly concerning rust, a well-maintained RAM 100 remains a dependable and characterful truck, perfectly capable of handling work duties or serving as a classic vehicle for enthusiasts.