Thanks for the replies so far!
bftank - So the 3rd Generation Ram 2500's (2003-2008) with a "Quad Cab" really isn't that spacious? On Wikipedia, their article states that the 3rd Gen. Dodge "Quad Cab" is nothing more than an extended cab with conventional opening doors.
So here are my initial list of "wants" that I have for 2nd/3rd vehicle. My girlfriend and I are moving in together so technically this will be a 3rd vehicle for us, me, or friends to go adventuring in:
- 4x4
- manual tranny
- $10,000-15,000 (something I can pay cash; I don't want a loan payment)
- can seat up to three 6'+ guys in relative comfort for long distances (1000+ mi.)
- diesel (ideally)
- decent fuel economy
- can pull a small trailer (future desire)
- can get down a "high clearance vehicle" road; not looking for a rock crawler or something meant for Jeep trails
- can carry a good amount of gear (3 guys and their hunting/fishing/mtn. biking/camping equipment).
- capable of providing sleeping quarters (slide-in camper, cap with camping platform in the bed, etc.)
The 2002-2009 dodge quad cab has a shorter wheelbase than the GM or Ford extended cab trucks due to it being built on what is essentially a reg cab frame, they make good use of space in the interior. They are a bit easier to maneuver.
As for space back there, the little guy can still kick the back of the seat in front of him in his car seat and there is less people space than a true crew cab, but more than a extended cab.
As previously mentioned these trucks have WAY more interior storage than any similar year truck with the load flat and the storage under the seats front and back.
Get a cummins if you can just ask around why they`re awesome.
The hemi is a powerhouse for a gas engine but there is a cost in fuel economy and maint-it has 16 easy to access spark plugs that require replacement every 80000km and has almost the capacity of a diesel in oil -7L. I found that it`s poorly matched to the 5 speed autos ratios so a stick or lower gears *(even worse fuel economy) is a must. However the hemi will be somewhat easier on expensive frontend parts unlike the cummins and has some advantages offroad (less weight).
Dodge build quality can be spotty I have heard that the 04-05 trucks are the best but I`ve had some issues with rattles and electrical gremlins, A cummins engine will last 2-3 times what the body and interior will.
I personally would lean towards a 3/4-1 ton for rough road travel, not that a 1/2 ton won`t do it but if you plan to put even a light weight camper in it and travel down forestry roads you will pay the price in front end parts and bottoming out. But I`m partial to solid axles over IFS anyway so I`m biased on the 3/4 ton thing.
JMHO, I hope I don`t sound like a knowitall
