Ram Trucks’ Rich History With the Power Wagon

Ram has been making trucks for a long time. That’s why we’re able to bring you some of the best trucks on the market. Recently, we’ve added another beloved truck to the 2014 lineup: the 2014 Ram Power Wagon.

The Power Wagon has deep history in the Ram family. From 1945 until 1980 the Power Wagon was an integral truck in American life. Reintroduced in 2005, the Power Wagon name lives up to its ancestry.

HS945_003DG__midIn 1945, the first Power Wagon was sent to the lines as a Weapons Carrier in World War II. The soldiers liked it so much that when they came home to the United States, they wanted a personal truck just like it. So, in 1946, Dodge released the first commercially available 4×4 truck for civilian use. Called the WDX, this Power Wagon paved the way for heavy duty 4x4s in the general market.

HS957_001DG__midAbout a decade later, in 1957, a new line of Power Wagons was introduced to the roads. The W100, W200, W300, W400 and W500 were more conventional-looking trucks. There were multiple engine options, including a V-8.

HS977_001DG__midThe body changed one more time in 1972, and the new Power Wagon was unrivaled in performance in the industry. When equipped with “Dana 60” 8-lug axles, the Power Wagon became known as the “King of Durability.” These iconic trucks rode strong until 1980.

But that wasn’t the last of the Power Wagon. In 2005, the name was brought back as a powerhouse that lived up to its reputation. Now in 2014, the Ram Power Wagon is the best truck you’ll find in off-road aptitude. The 6.4-liter HEMI® V-8 is both legendary and innovative, with 410 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and torque peaking at 429 lb.-ft. This best-in-class powertrain compliments the unique Ram suspension systems in front and back, so you ride smoother with more control.

  • Scott Gresser

    The picture od the first civilian styled truck you have must be a prototype. The truck shown is a 1954. Secondly, the Power Wagon was restyled twice, not once as you mentioned. The Power Giant era trucks lasted through the 1960 model. Then the era you missed was the Sweptline era from 1961 to 1971. The truck you have pictured for the final generation of regular production Power Wagons is a 1977. I’ve been a Mopar lover since age six. I am now sixty. Have a great day and keep up the great work.