RAM 1500 vs. RAM 2500: Two Winners, Depending on Your Needs
RAM 1500 vs. RAM 2500: Two Winners, Depending on Your Needs
Posted on December 11, 2023
Full-size Ram trucks have a tough skin. They stand out as real workhorses, each in their own way, but it’s already fair to say that they will meet your needs. Depending on the type of work you do and your hobbies, you’ll have to choose between the RAM 1500 or the RAM 2500. Let’s look at what makes these powerful machines stand out from the crowd!
Highly Efficient Powertrains
Both the RAM 1500 and the RAM 2500 for sale offer excellent engines and there’s no lack of choice on that level. Discover what’s under the hood of these two full-size trucks, based on your needs:
Type of Engine |
3.6 L V6 + mild hybrid 5.7 L V8 + mild hybrid 6.2 L V8 |
6.4 L V8 6.7 L Turbo I6 (Diesel) 6.7 L Turbo I6 (High-Output Diesel) |
Power |
305 horsepower 395 horsepower 702 horsepower |
410 horsepower 370 horsepower 400 horsepower |
Performance |
271 lb-ft 410 lb-ft 650 lb-ft |
429 lb-ft 850 lb-ft 1,075 lb-ft |
In both cases, the Ram trucks are powerful and high-performance. But it’s the 6.7 L Cummins Turbo Diesel 6-cylinder engine (RAM 2500) that provides the highest capabilities. However, depending on what you want to tow, you’ll still be in top shape with the RAM 1500’s V6 and V8 engines.
Towing Capacity of the RAM 1500 and RAM 2500
From the outset, the towing capacity of the RAM 1500 ranges between 6,120 and 12,750 pounds (and up to 17,740 pounds in 2024), depending on the powertrain under the hood and the configuration. In fact, the RAM 1500 won’t have the same towing capacity if you pick a trim with two-wheel drive or a 4x4 version. Moreover, the cabin and bed configuration you choose will have an impact on your Ram truck’s towing capacity.
As for the RAM 2500, it can tow up to 20,000 pounds, depending on the powertrain and cabin and bed configuration you pick. For example, the RAM 2500 with Mega Cab can tow up to 16,480 pounds, whereas the RAM 2500’s towing capacity, when equipped with a Crew Cab, is up to 20,000 pounds.
The payload of the RAM 1500 is 2,300 pounds, and up to 1,970 pounds for the RAM 2500.
In short, depending on your needs, you’ll choose either the RAM 1500 or the RAM 2500. Remember that both trucks, with different powertrains, can do plenty of hard work and tow all your equipment on the construction site or on long trips during your family vacations.
Trims and Prices
The two Ram trucks are offered in various trims, each one more attractive than the last. Let’s take a look at the starting prices of the two models:
RAM 1500 Price & Trims (2023) |
RAM 2500 Price & Trims (2023) |
Tradesman: $47,466 Big Horn: $50,616 Sport: $63,081 Rebel: $64,926 Laramie: $69,363 Limited Longhorn: $73,836 Limited: $77,706 TRX: $100,161 |
Tradesman: $59,990 Big Horn: $62,940 Rebel: $80,490 Power Wagon: $82,390 Laramie: $83,990 Limited Longhorn: $98,190 Limited: $101,790 |
Price Range: $47,466 - $100,161 |
Price Range: $59,990 - $101,790 |
As you can see, there are price differences depending on whether you select a RAM 1500 or a RAM 2500. Once again, it all depends on your needs and hobbies.
Two Technological Trucks
Although we can agree that the RAM 1500 and the RAM 2500 are two forces of nature, the RAM 2500 interior shows at least as many innovative features as the RAM 1500:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
12-inch touchscreen optional
USB ports
Navigation system
6-speaker audio system, with 10 or 17-speaker options also available (RAM 2500)
And much more
In both cases, the active safety systems are many: Rear Cross-Traffic Warning, 360 surround-view camera, Blind-Spot Monitoring with Trailer Detection and Rear Cross-Path Detection, Trailer Reverse Steering Control, Hill Descent Assist, etc.
To conclude, since we’re talking about two big trucks, the RAM 1500’s fuel consumption is more frugal than the Ram 2500’s. That being said, we saw that the two full-size trucks offer various trims and competitive prices. Moreover, they offer plenty of technology and a generous selection of engines.
Come discover the whole range of RAM 1500 and RAM 2500 at Trois Diamants Chrysler, your RAM dealership in Mascouche, close to Highway 640 and Route 337. Our team of experts will answer all your questions.