* Year of the truck: Gas mileage standards and engine technology changed over the years the 318 was in production. Older trucks will generally have significantly lower fuel economy than newer ones (even if both have the same engine).
* Transmission: Automatic or manual transmissions affect fuel economy.
* Truck configuration: A regular cab, short bed truck will get better gas mileage than a crew cab, long bed model. The weight of the truck greatly impacts fuel economy.
* Driving habits: Aggressive driving significantly reduces fuel economy.
* Maintenance: Proper maintenance is crucial for optimal fuel efficiency.
* Load: Carrying a heavy load reduces fuel efficiency.
Therefore, there's no single answer. You'll find widely varying claims online, ranging from as low as 10 MPG to as high as 18 MPG in mixed city/highway driving. To find a more accurate estimate for a *specific* Dodge Ram 318, you'll need to know the year and configuration of the truck and consult resources like the EPA's FuelEconomy.gov website (if data is available) or owner's manuals.
