The 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 with the 5.2-liter V8 is rated at 230 horsepower, producing roughly 330 pound-feet of torque. This horsepower figure was standard for most configurations that year.
Engine specifications and performance
To understand these numbers, here are the core specifications of the 5.2-liter Magnum V8 used in the 1997 Ram 1500. The engine balanced everyday drivability with enough torque for towing and hauling common to Dodge Rams of that era.
Key numbers for the 5.2L Magnum V8 in the 1997 Ram 1500:
- Horsepower: 230 hp (172 kW) at roughly 4,000 rpm
- Torque: approximately 330 lb-ft (447 Nm) at about 2,400–3,200 rpm
- Displacement: 5.2 L (318 cu in)
- Engine family: Magnum V8
- Fuel system: Electronic fuel injection
In summary, the 1997 Ram 1500’s 5.2L V8 delivered solid mid-range power appropriate for its pickup-and-thaul duties, with the 230 hp and 330 lb-ft figures representing the standard specification across most builds of that year.
Notes on variations
Prices, emissions packages, and drivetrain options (such as 2WD vs. 4WD, or automatic vs. manual transmissions) can influence performance feel, but the official horsepower rating for the 5.2L V8 remained around 230 hp across the 1997 Ram 1500 lineup.
Summary
The 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 equipped with the 5.2-liter Magnum V8 is commonly cited as 230 horsepower and about 330 lb-ft of torque, offering enough power for daily driving and light-to-mid towing tasks typical of that era.
Is a 5.2 Dodge motor a 318?
The 5.2 L Magnum, released in 1992, was an evolutionary development of the 318 cu in (5.2 L) LA engine with the same displacement. The 5.2 L was the first of the Magnum upgraded engines, followed in 1993 by the 5.9 L V8 and the 3.9 L V6.
What year of Ram 1500 5.7 L to avoid?
Buyers commonly choose to avoid 2013–2015 and 2018 Ram 1500 models unless maintenance records are excellent, because these years more frequently show repeat transmission and electrical complaints than other model years.
How many miles will a 5.2 magnum last?
The 5.2l Magnum can last well over 300k miles when properly maintained. The timing chain set might need to be replaced after 150k miles, but that's not a guarantee. Most of the causes for engine failure is severe overheating and/or prolonged oil starvation.
How much horsepower does a 1997 Dodge Ram 5.2 have?
220 hp @ 4,400 rpm
Engine
| Horsepower | 220 hp @ 4,400 rpm |
|---|---|
| Torque | 300 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm |