It seems that the days when a Pickup was a utilitarian vehicle are a distant memory. Today, even the most basic example offers comfort and equipment that was unthinkable in earlier times. This 2012 Ram 1500 Express exemplifies the trend, as it is loaded with features that guarantee a comfortable motoring experience. It presents exceptionally well, and with only 13,000 miles on the clock, it should offer its new owner many years of reliable service. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Kyle for spotting the Ram listed here at Bring-A-Trailer in Wilmington, North Carolina. While bidding has opened on this classic, there has been no auction action so far.
Although marketed from inception as part of the Dodge range, Ram received a standalone brand status in 2010. It continued to offer a wide selection of models and equipment levels, seeking to fill every market niche. This Ram 1500 rolled off the line in 2012, ordered by its first owner as the Express variant. This version brought some visual upgrades to differentiate it from the ST, including 20″ aluminum wheels, a color-keyed grille, front fascia, and rear bumper with an integrated step, fog lamps, and a dual exhaust. Finished in Mineral Gray, it is a striking vehicle with plenty of street cred. The seller indicates close inspection will reveal minor scratches and chips, but the paint exhibits no evidence of patchiness or other significant problems. The panels are straight, and the image gallery confirms that this Pickup is as solid as the day it left the line. A bug shield protects the hood’s leading edge, and a rubber bed mat is another practical protection feature. The seller installed aftermarket window tint, adding a touch of menace to the vehicle’s appearance.
If someone from the 1960s could time-travel to 2026, they would be amazed by this Ram’s interior appointments. It features air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and a CD stereo. The two-tone Dark Slate Gray Racine and Medium Graystone Dallas cloth trim looks excellent, with no significant wear or marks. Rubber mats protect the carpet, and the dash shows no evidence of age or UV deterioration. The buyer receives ample interior storage, including a fairly cavernous glovebox, a lidded bin between the seats, and a cargo carrier behind the seats.
This Ram features a hitch receiver, and with its 5.7-liter Hemi V8 delivering a factory-claimed 390hp and 407 ft/lbs of torque, it should effortlessly haul heavy loads. A six-speed automatic, a new feature for 2012, handles shifting duties, while power steering and anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes were standard equipment. This Ram has 13,000 miles showing on its odometer, with the seller adding 6,000 of those since purchasing the Pickup from its original owner last year. The vehicle recently received an oil change, and the sale includes an impressive array of manufacturer and dealer documentation. Although not specifically stated, it appears that this Ram is a turnkey proposition with no mechanical needs.
This 2012 Ram 1500 Express isn’t perfect, but its condition is exceptional for a vehicle of this type and age. The exterior paint shade is classy, and the interior appointments mean that load-carrying or heavy towing doesn’t equate to physical discomfort. Although recent successful sales suggest a potential sale price of $15,000, this Pickup’s overall condition and low odometer reading could see it top $20,000 before the hammer falls. Considering a new example would cost at least twice that figure, this Ram deserves a closer look.
So,another used,not-so-old truck for sale/I miss the days when
BaT wouldn’t accept stuff like this.
And BF too!
This truck is special because it is exceptionally clean and has extremely low miles. If you look on Craigs List, FB Market or most online sites, you rarely find low mile vehicles. This is a clean truck and if Adam is correct about the value, that’s a far cry from what a new truck would cost. Besides, there are people out there who still love a regular cab, short bed, with a V-8 and 3.92 gears. Ram doesn’t make either anymore. For those that love the “shorty”, this is a last chance to own a clean one.
This Ram must get off the line and haul the mail. Especially w the lively rear gear ratio.
They made this generation of RAM truck for 15 years (2009 – 2024). I’m on my second – I liked the first one (’15 2500 5.7l) so much I went back to the well after I retired for a ’21 Classic 3.6l. Biggest issue with the 5.7 is the dreaded “hemi tick.” This one looks super-clean and should find a home pretty easily, although I’m dubious of a $20K hammer.
Good looking truck but impractical for any kind of honest work. Give me a 1970 GMC with a 350 4sp or even a mid 80s Toyota with a 22R and a 4 speed. Trucks need to be for work only, cheap to buy, cheap to maintain, reliable. This is none of these things.
Twenty large might not be a big swing. Clean and properly equipped except no mention of Sure-Grip, DSA on the body tag. These are capable of 20 mpg while stepping away from traffic. Nice hauler.
it’s all about the bottom line. B A T is very predacious when it comes to what listings they take. i tried to list a low mile Oldsmobile and was told it does not fit the criteria, but 2 weeks later there is the same car listed. i look there but would never list there and they sensor comments. just my thoughts. B/F is a much better forum
Well I guess this truck is ok , I like my 93 with the 8 foot bed better because I can put a stack of 4X8 plywood in the back and shut the gate. So this one is ok for commuting and small things from the hardware store.
In what world is a clean , low mile , 14 year old , regular cab , shorty, NOT interesting ,rare, and desirable ? Excellent feature !
I can see $20 k quite easily.
I have a shortbed 2016 R/T with the 5.7 hemi and MBRP exhaust. It’s dark gray with factory chrome wheels, in excellent condition, and it runs and sounds great. I love it and wouldn’t trade it for any new truck.
You have a unique truck there, Steve. I haven’t only seen two or three regular cab R/Ts, and I sell them.
I would agree with you Nelson. I’m in southern New Jersey and I’ve only seen a few others around here in the 10 years I’ve owned mine.
As has been stated, finding ANY standard cab, short bed, V8 pickup in todays market is a difficult task unless you are willing to go old school. Very nice truck!
No 4 wheel drive.If it were it would suit my needs.
Nelson is right on it being an unique truck. Since 4WD is only necessary for those who have to drive on snowy roads. This is an excellent vehicle for an “Empty Nester” couple to have as a very comfortable second vehicle that can be a daily driver, go to the home improvement store, tow their fishing boat or a small camper, and do weekend chores. Question: Is the 6 speed listed the same as the Asian 6 speed I have in my 3500 behind the 6.7 Cummins??? If so it is almost bullet proof!! Much better than the 4 speeds Dodge offered earlier. If I was looking for a 1500 this truck ticks all the boxes.
No relation to the Aisin HD 6-speed.
Good looking truck!! Rare being optioned like it is…
Here’s a far more BF & BAT worth Ram for sale in New Zealand:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1C77uSJuZp/
Well Adam you just about said it all in your write up. What’s not to like on this truck? I’ve never owned a truck and even I can see a good opportunity to get a great deal. Very nice truck!. Thanks for the great story.