The 1998 5.9 Magnum typically produced 245 horsepower.
Overview of the 5.9 Magnum
The 5.9 Magnum is Mopar’s 360-cubic-inch (5.9-liter) V8 engine, part of the Magnum family that was widely used in Dodge trucks and certain Jeep models in the late 1990s. In 1998, this engine powered both Dodge Ram pickups and the Jeep Grand Cherokee as a popular option for buyers seeking strong mid-range torque. Official horsepower ratings hovered around 245 hp, with torque generally cited in the mid-300s range, varying by application and emissions equipment.
Power figures by application
Below are typical figures for the 1998 5.9 Magnum installations in common vehicles. These numbers reflect the ratings used by Dodge and Jeep at the time and can vary slightly by market, model year, and testing method.
- Dodge Ram pickups (5.9L Magnum V8): 245 hp at 4,800 rpm; 335 lb-ft of torque at 3,400 rpm.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (5.9L Magnum V8, optional): 245 hp; torque around 345 lb-ft, depending on year and emission controls.
Note: Some sources list torque values in a range (approximately 335–345 lb-ft) for different 5.9 Magnum variants, reflecting minor differences between model years and configurations.
Context and significance
In the late 1990s, the 5.9 Magnum’s blend of horsepower and, more notably, torque made it a strong performer for towing and heavy-duty use. It was appreciated for durability and straightforward maintenance, and it served as Mopar’s workhorse V8 until it was eventually superseded by newer engines in the following decades.
Summary
For 1998, the 5.9 Magnum delivered about 245 horsepower, with torque typically ranging from roughly 335 to 345 lb-ft depending on the vehicle (Dodge Ram versus Jeep Grand Cherokee) and specific emission configurations. This made it a robust, torque-heavy option for trucks and SUVs of that era.