With so many Americans getting into the camping and RV life, there’s also an increased need for capable trucks to pull travel trailers. One pickup offers more than enough power, and it won’t break the bank. The catch is you’ll have to venture back in time more than 15 years. But if you can get your hands on a 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 turbodiesel, you won’t have any trouble towing a camper. And you’ll likely spend less than $7,000 for it.

Do you remember the 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 diesel?

Step back in time to the early-to-mid-2000s. Back then, consumers were hungry for powerful engines and beefy capability. Dodge was fully prepared to answer the call for bigger and better, and the 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Diesel came with the Power Wagon. This class-exclusive feature provided electric front and rear locking differentials and an electronic front sway bar. 

These massive pickups also boasted 33-inch off-road tires and a 12,000-pound-rated winch. The 2005 model’s muscle was a marvel. A more powerful version of the Cummins turbodiesel engine — capable of a stunning 610 lb-ft of torque — lurked under the hood, Edmunds reported.

A used 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 diesel is affordable

If you want to buy a 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 turbodiesel, you might be hard-pressed to find owners willing to part with their trucks. But there are some on vehicle listing sites.

Edmunds estimates they cost $4,188 to $7,987. Getting that kind of power for less than $7,000 is an incredible buy.

Why this truck is still a topic of conversation

RV’ing has exploded over the past year as Americans look for ways to vacation and explore in safe and socially distant ways. But travel trailers need something to tow them. That’s why buying a used pickup is a great way to save money after forking over thousands on a camper. 

In fact, 2003-2008 Dodge Ram 2500 diesel models rank on MotorTrend‘s “The 10 Best Diesel Pickup Trucks of All Time” list. These Ram trucks are still highly capable years later.

Towing capacity and fuel economy

The 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 turbodiesel is still respected among truck owners. Cars.com shows just how popular it continues to be with consumer reviews and endorsements that help it earn a 4.6 out of 5.0 score. A whopping 96 percent of those drivers recommend this Ram 2500 turbodiesel. Of course, you’ll have to compromise a little on fuel economy because this beefy engine gets around 14.5 mpg combined. But today’s diesel fuel pricing might not sting as bad as it did 15 years ago.

Citing a multitude of favorite features, most of the reviews compliment the truck’s towing capacity. Whether you drive a two- or four-door and need three or six seats, a 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 diesel can still pull 11,000 to 13,000 pounds. Owners of this truck also love the smooth ride, comfortable interior, and incredible power.

If you plan to use a travel trailer this summer, you’ll need a capable and reliable truck to pull it. Consider the 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 turbodiesel if you can find one for sale. Despite their age, these trucks are still well-respected and can be a steal under $7,000.