Ram Runner

MOPAR's Ram Runner Package for the Ram 1500

The Ram Runner was MOPAR's answer to the SVT Raptor, which Ford released for the 2010 model year. Unlike the Raptor, the Ram Runner is an upfit package for the Ram 1500 pickup, not a vehicle of it's own. The special package, sold through MOPAR's performance division, contains everything necessary to transform an ordinary Ram 1/2 ton pickup into an extraordinary, off-road capable, Baja inspired monster.

Chrysler's 5.7L Hemi powers the 5,900 lbs Ram Runner with 390 horsepower and 407 lb-ft of torque, which exhales through a cat-back dual exhaust system. Fox Racing shocks support 4130 chromemoly suspension and grant the Ram Runner significantly more flex than the standard 1500, while 35 inch tires wrapped in aluminum wheels keep the rig planted. Extra wide fiberglass fenders keep the tires covered and add to the overall appearance of the vehicle.

Ram Runner vs Raptor

Ford's 1st generation Raptor boasts a slightly higher 411 horsepower and 434 lb-ft of torque thanks to the company's 'Big Bore' 6.2L V-8. The Raptor also rides on Fox racing shocks and features suspension components designed to catch the vehicle as it thrusts over obstacles. Unlike the Ram Runner, the Raptor is a pickup of its own, not a derivative of the standard half ton model. As the Ram Runner is an upfit package, it's $20,463 price tag is on top of the price of the Ram 1500 model of your choosing. At Ford dealerships, however, you can roll off the lot with a 2014 Raptor for as little as $44,995, and that comes loaded with many unique features.

Did the Ram Runner meet MOPAR's expectations? It seems as though the package was only made available for 2009 - 2012 models, and neither MOPAR nor Ram Trucks continues to advertise the option as of the 2014 model year (though the MOPAR catalog does contain many of the Ram Runner's components for 2014, the package itself is not listed). Aesthetically, we must say that the Ram Runner is one sharp looking rig and we wish there were more of them on the road today.

 

Ram Runner Specs

Engine:

5.7L Hemi V-8 (345 cid)

Bore x Stroke:

3.92 in x 3.58 in

Compression Ratio:

10.5 : 1

Horsepower/Torque:

390 hp @ 5,600 rpm, 407 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Transmission:

65RFE six speed automatic

1st

3.00 : 1

2nd

1.67 : 1

3rd

1.50 : 1

4th

1.00 : 1

5th

0.75 : 1

6th

0.67 : 1

R

3.00 : 1

Body Modifications:

• Fiberglass Baja style front & rear fenders
• Baja style, bed mounted spare tire carrier
• Steel front bumper w/ aluminum skid plate
• Aluminum hood w/ dual scoops

Suspension:

5 link coil suspension, 14" front & rear travel, 3" Fox internal bypass shock absorbers. 4130 chromemoly upper and lower control arms.

Approach/Departure:

41° approach angle, 30° departure angle

Ground Clearance:

13" at front cross member, 16" at rocker panels

Tires:

35x12.50R17 LT General Grabber

Wheels:

17" Cast aluminum

Weight:

~5,900 lbs

 

MOPAR Ram Runner vs Ford SVT Raptor

 

MOPAR Ram Runner

1st Gen Ford SVT Raptor

% Difference

Peak Horsepower:

390 hp @ 5,600 rpm

411 hp @ 5,500 rpm

5.4%

Peak Torque:

407 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

434 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm

6.6%

Front Suspension Travel:

14"

11.2"

20.0%

Rear Suspension Travel:

14"

12.1"

13.6%

Approach Angle:

41°

30.3°

26.1%

Departure Angle:

30°

22.8°

24.0%

Front Ground Clearance:

13"

9.5"

26.9%

Rear Ground Clearance:

13"

9.3"

28.5%

Curb Weight:

5,900 lbs

6,000 lbs

1.7%