I guess you don't realize what you got til ya ain't got it anymore.<br><br>Since I got this rally coming up, I thought I would get a 2003 to show off out there. The downside is I had to leave my 405hp beast at the dealership and drive off in a brand spanking new 2003 HO for the weekend. It ain't got the get-up I'm used to having, but it has plenty of power for a stock truck.<br><br>Don't get me wrong, this is a great truck. Lots of room inside. I'm 6'1&quot; and I still had to move the seat up quite a bit. This in-turn offered much more room in the back seat. I sat back there with my seat in a comfortable position and I had plenty of room. The seats are nice and comfy, electric with lumbar support. I like the power outlet in the center console. Great place for the cell phone charger. <br><br>I really like the rack and pinion steering. Quick and nimble. Doesn't feel like a 3/4 ton truck at all. They have obviously made several changes in the suspension department. The ride is very smooth. Nothing like the ride my 94 3/4 ton offered.<br><br>I LOVE DISC BRAKES!!<br>Did I mention I like the disc brakes? Stops on a dime. Nuff said<br><br>Still getting accustomed to the 6 speed transmission. I've accidentally shifted from 5th to 4th a couple of times. Shifting is a little stiff but I'm sure that would get better with time. <br>After all, this one only had 120 miles on it.<br><br>This is the first truck I've driven that has me thinking about selling the ol beast. It would need a few upgrades but that is easily remedied. :)

My vote for improved performance in the '03s, over the second gens, has got to be the rack and pinion steering. Then second, would be the improved lowend grunt, for a stocker. Lots of touque down low in the rpm band. The brakes feel no different than my '01.

rack and pinion steering is only on the 1500. these have std (but improved) gear boxes.

Extreme Diesel, My 2003 Ram 2500, 4x2, has rack and pinion steering. All 2003 Heavy Duty Rams 4x2s have rack and pinion steering. It is the 4x4s that have standard gear boxes. Suggest you go to local dealer and check it out. It handles like a sports car on mountain roads. [laugh] [laugh]

I can't even imagine buying a 2 wheel drive truck :o

You need one in WI, I don't. Towin my 5er, don't plan to tow it in snow. I've seen what can happen when a trailer truck combo looseeees it on snow and ice. It sure isn't pretty. For solo driving in those conditions we have a Jeep Grand Cherokee. 8)