I have a 96 ram with the 5.2, and my step-dad has a 04 with the 4.7. As far as power goes, they were really about the same. The 4.7 seemed to be higher in the rpm range. The 5.2 did have more low end torque. As far as mileage goes, both were 4 speed autos, and the 4.7 got 2mpg better on average. I would defiantly say the 5.2 is more reliable. My step-dad's truck is at barely 100k, and needs a new engine. Mine is at 220k and running strong. There are lots of parts for the 5.2 as well, I am not sure about the 4.7.

 

I don't know if you're looking into a 4x4 or not, and if you are you want it lifted. If you do its a lot easier and cheaper to find a lift for a 97-99. Like everyone else has said, you cant go wrong with either engine. The 4.7 is newer and probably does get better mpg, but the 318 has been used for like 40 years, and its obviously been perfected as time has gone on. It also has parts available left right and centre. If your considering gas mileage in your purchase, I would go with the standard transmission. I have an auto but wish it was a manual. If your not lazy youll be able to go faster (the auto doesnt always have the best shift points) and save gas.

 

exactly.

 

This tread is way old, but who ever said the 318 is more reliable is wrong. The 4.7 is way more reliable, but the 318 has better low end power which I would like. The 4.7 might get 1-2 mpg more but nothing major.

 

5.9 360 ftmfw

 

haha yup. LT's, ported heads, cam, intake mani, and some juice and you can have some fun.

 

The 318 in my 99 d is at 241xxx and still running strong. My buddys 4.7 ram blew headgaskets at 112 xxx. 318 never opened up

 

I've seen plenty of 4.7s with blown head gaskets, water in the oil, etc. but I've never seen a single 5.2 with those problems (or any other major engine problems). I'm sure they both have their issues but, in my experience, the 5.2 is more reliable.

 

I'm at 179k miles now. Jeep Tcm mod for the last 20k miles.

No transmission issues. And the other day from a stop light lit up both tires until 2nd gear :-)

No issues with the 4.7 here.

 

Im gona say the 5.2, I had a 99 dakota, my mom had a 2000 durango, same 4 speed auto trans. ( as fas as I know) She had to have a full rebuild at around 120k because the oil passages got plugged even running synthetic and regular oil changes, burned the bearings, blew both head gaskets, clogged the cat and to top it off broke a over head cam shaft and bent 4 valves i believe.

My 5.2, well other then a water pump, tensioner, and fan clutch it ran perfectly even after the day i took it into a phone pole at 50mph, i drove it up on the flatbed to take it to the shop.