Some vehicles are so significant and beloved that they deserve a special article celebrating their every model year. Well, that’s exactly what we have for you here, and boy is it ever a treat for you fans of the Dodge Ram pickup out there.

We're laying down the changes made to this powerful truck throughout the years, and even we—who spend their days pining over vehicular information—learned a thing or two in the process.

Join us as we take a look at the Dodge Ram from its humble first generation to its modern-day fifth. And don’t be surprised to discover a few surprises we couldn’t help but include.

So here’s to the Dodge Ram …in all its glory!

The Very First Dodge Pickup

via www.regansweddingcars.com

Although this particular image isn't a Ram, it was one of the very first pickup trucks built by Dodge. So we more than felt it needed to be included here. It was the start of it all, or rather, the many first pickups built were. This one here set the tone of where Dodge would go. Especially in terms of size and strength.

The First Generation

via Diesel World

It wouldn't be until 1981 that the actual "Ram" name would be used, but it was well worth the wait. It was in that year that the Ram was unveiled and to many happy customers. Here was a truck that boasted power and size, but delivered it as well.

Many have claimed that the original model, pictured above, was Plain Jane. But we'd ask you all to remember that it was a different time. We rather feel that there is a lot of character in that front end and the rest of the body.

via Diesel World

That first generation changed slightly over the years before we would see a second generation. But still, the integrity of the vehicle remained intact. It would be 13 years or so before Dodge would unveil the second generation, but boy, was it worth the wait.

The Second Generation

via en.wheelsage.org

The 2nd generation Ram was finally unleashed and in 1994, highly anticipated by everyone. And when it arrived, nobody was disappointed.

The new generation brought with it a new and improved front end. Modern comes to mind, of course. But then again, what was modern in 1994 isn't really modern today. Food for thought.

Back to the point ... the mechanical changes were also within the new package. Aesthetic differences weren't the only new features, as was reported by miamilakesautomall.com.  The engine was hit with quite the upgrade, as was the transmission. People couldn't have been happier.

The Third Generation

via RYD Motorsports

The third generation was released in 2002. However, eager buyers had to wait an additional year to get their hands on a Ram 2500 and 3500 models. The changes made for this generation of the Ram were plentiful - a modernized and upgraded chassis as well as the engine. It's also here that the smaller 1500 models first got their independent front suspensions. This is also the generation that introduced the fearsome Ram SRT-10, featuring an 8.3L powerhouse taken straight out of a Viper and churning out 510 horsepower, which became the quickest truck in the world.

The Fourth Generation

via Top Speed

The fourth generation was released in 2009. The model received numerous updates throughout the last decade, including visual twerks, the addition of air suspension options, and even the "high fuel efficiency" (HFE) models in the lineup.

In 2016, we got the mighty Ram Rebel, with the power (courtesy of a 395-hp HEMI V8) and off-road capabilities that posed a serious threat to even the popular Ford Raptor.

The Fifth Generation

via Motor1

The Ram that rolled out in 2019 is considered the 5th generation, and it's the model we currently enjoy. This car featured a radical redesign from what Ram owners were used to in the past 25 years, with the updates also encompassing many modern technology features.

Cleverly built, the new model reduces overall weight by some 225 lbs from the fourth-gen Rams while its steel build simultaneously improves its towing capacity. Today, it's considered one of the biggest and meanest pickups, and a strong competitor to the likes of Ford's beastly F-150.

An Honorable Mention, The Ramcharger

via Bring a Trailer

When it comes to the great history of Dodge and the vehicles they've unleashed over the years, there are some that cannot be left unmentioned. In particular, the Ramcharger pictured here is something that celebrates not only itself but the Ram badge as well. A pivotal moment in the history of Dodge trucks and totally worth a mention here.

Interestingly enough, the Ramcharger came first. It was launched in 1974, but later versions were based on the Dodge D Series/Ram pickup. So the two are most definitely related in Dodge's long history of impeccable trucks.

NEXT: SCA Performance Dodge RAM APEX Lifted Pickup