Audi A8 D3 Replacement - Dodge Ram 2500 5.7 Hemi.

[Nollywood]

It's been great owning Audi's flagship, the Audi A8 D3.

However, the time has come to move on. Not due to any reliability issues, my 2005 D3 4.2 Quattro Sport has given me sterling service, and never let me down.

A new baby has highlighted the need for more space. A full-size luxury sedan suddenly seems small, for a family of 5. We took a trip to France a week ago, and with a double buggy in the trunk, there wasn't much space for anything else.

Of course, there's the option of a roof box. But, I'm after a vehicle that would provide space, without the need for a roof rack and box. I considered the Audi Q7, but after a lengthy test drive, decided it wasn't for me.

After much thought, and convincing my wife, I have decided on a truck.

A 2008 Dodge Ram 4x4 Laramie 2500 Quad Cab, 5.7 V8 Hemi. I had the opportunity to test drive a 3.7 V6 model, and the interior space it provides is staggering. I've always thought the D3 was wide, but the Ram gives cabin space a whole new meaning.

Laramie-spec is very well appointed too. And unlike double cabin UK Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara, Mitsubishi L200, Volkswagen Amarok etc, double cabin in the Dodge Ram doesn't mean sacrificing load bed space. The wheelbase is so long, the bed is actually longer than that of a single cabin medium-duty pick-up truck. The hydraulic bed lid too is an added bonus.

So, my D3 will be up for sale soon, either on here or elsewhere. Bit I'll still be lurking, as I still have an S8-powered B5 Audi A4 Quattro in my garage.

I can't wait to get my Ram, with the legendary V8 Hemi, it'll be a blast!

[Palmer]

I love a yank truck. Followed an F350 quadcab down a country lane once, one wheel on the whiteline, one wheel bordering the ditch LOL!

I'd love a ram 3500 with the 5.7 cummins! MMM! lol

[Nollywood]

^^^ I did consider the diesel, but decided based upon refinement over economy. The Cummins diesel has immense torque, no doubt. But I prefer e petrol V8, especially if it's an American one.

[Goran]

I love American V8's too. You should have gone for the 6.2 thought
oops I mean 6.4
Do post a picture when you get it, I don't think I ever saw a quad cab.

I just realised there is a SRT 10 as well, 8.3L V10, that's crazy!

[Nollywood]

Originally Posted by Goran

I love American V8's too. You should have gone for the 6.2 thought
oops I mean 6.4

I'm looking at the gen. 3 Dodge Ram, the 6.4 Hemi wasn't available until the gen. 4.

The 5.7 V8 Hemi makes 388hp and 548 lb-ft, so that'll do just fine. I'm staying away from Californian trucks though.

[sarg]

Do you live close to a petrol station?

[roberto]

http://www2.autotrader.co.uk/classif...model/ram/radi

[Nollywood]

Originally Posted by sarg

Do you live close to a petrol station?

Actually, I do. Though gas mileage has never really been a consideration when choosing an automobile.

I tend to lean more on the "smiles per mile" aspect.

[David's8]

Whilst this is a Ford F250 Super Duty spotted in Oz and not a Dodge Ram it is a large King Cab vehicle. This one may have a 5.4L v8 or 6.8l V10 petrol or 6.0 or 7.3l diesel but the clue is in the plate.

[notorious]