3.9 Liter Dodge Engine Gas Mileage
by James Rutter
Dodge Motors produced a 3.9L displacement V6 from 1987 to 2003. In 1992, Dodge reconfigured this first-generation engine, giving it more horsepower, and rebranded it as the 3.9L "Magnum" engine.
Model Availability
Dodge offered the 3.9L engine in its Dodge Dakota in 1987. In 1989, Dodge installed it in the base Ram 1500. The Magnum engine became available for both the Dakota and Ram 1500 in 1992.
First Generation Fuel Economy
A 1991 Dakota covered 15 to 16 miles per gallon during city driving and 19 or 21 mpg when driven on the highway. The lower number represents the fuel rating for four-wheel drive vehicles. The four-wheel drive 1991 Dodge Ram earned 14 mpg in the city and 15 mpg on the highways.
Magnum Fuel Economy
A rear-wheel drive 2002 Dodge Dakota using this engine earned 15 to 18 mpg in the city and 19 to 21 mpg on the highways, with the lower number representing the automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive Dakotas earned 14 to 15 mpg in the city and 17 to 19 mpg on the highways. Dodge did not offer the 3.9L V6 in four-wheel drive Ram 1500s. A 1999 rear-wheel drive Dodge Ram 1500 using this engine rated 15 mpg in the city and 20 to 21 mpg on the highways.
References
Writer Bio
Since 2005, James Rutter has worked as a freelance journalist for print and Internet publications, including the “News of Delaware County,” “Main Line Times” and Broad Street Review. As a former chemist, college professor and competitive weightlifter, he writes about science, education and exercise. Rutter earned a B.A. in philosophy and biology from Albright College and studied philosophy and cognitive science at Temple University.
