​Choosing the perfect pickup truck can be challenging, given the variety of available options. The 2024 Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 are two top contenders with unique strengths. Each truck aims to meet specific driving needs, from towing capacity and bed size to comfort and off-road prowess.
Introduction
Deciding which of these excellent trucks is best for you depends on how you're planning to use it most. Our team at Huffines Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram (CJDR) Lewisville developed this guide to help you understand the key features and differences between these two models so you can make an informed decision. Which one will you choose? Let's dive in and see.
Introduction
a close up of a sticker on the side of a car by Jakub Pabis is licensed with Unsplash License
The Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 are powerful trucks built for different purposes. Deciding between them depends on your personal preferences and driving needs. Here are the main differences between the Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 at a glance:
| Ram 1500 | Ram 2500 | |
| Starting MSRP | $39,420 | $45,250 |
| Engine | 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 with eTorque Available 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with eTorque Available SUPERCHARGED 6.2L HEMI® V-8 |
6.4-liter HEMI V-8 6.7-liter Cummins turbo-diesel I-6 |
| Maximum Passenger Capacity | Six people | Six people |
| Transmission | Eight-speed automatic | Eight-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel or four-wheel drive |
| Horsepower | 305 (V-6) 395 (V-8) 702 (SUPERCHARGED V-8) |
410 (V-8) 370 (turbo-diesel) |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft (V-6) 410 lb-ft (V-8) 650 lb-ft (SUPERCHARGED V-8) |
429 lb-ft (V-8) 850 lb-ft (turbo-diesel) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 2,370 pounds | 4,000 pounds |
| Maximum Pickup Cargo Volume | 61.5 cubic feet | 74.7 cubic feet |
| Maximum Interior Cargo Volume | 68.5/53.3 cubic feet | 66/60.7 cubic feet |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,110 pounds (V-6) 12,750 pounds (V-8) 7,800 pounds (SUPERCHARGED V-8) |
17,730 pounds (V-8) 19,990 pounds (turbo-diesel) |
| Fuel Efficiency | 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway (Tradesman) | Not rated by the EPA |
| Configurations | Crew Cab with 5-foot 7-inch box, Crew Cab with 6-foot 4-inch box, and Quad Cab with 6-foot 4-inch box | Crew Cab with 6-foot 4-inch box, Mega Cab with 6-foot 4-inch box, Crew Cab with 8-foot box, and Regular Cab with 8-foot box |
Ram 1500: The All-Around Performer
The 2024 Ram 1500 is renowned for its versatility and comfort as a reliable daily driver. With a long history in the Dodge family since the 1980s, this truck has undergone assorted changes to bring it to its current state. The Ram 1500 is a popular truck that offers a smooth ride, impressive fuel efficiency, and powerful engine options to suit different needs, such as everyday driving, weekend adventures, and light towing tasks. The interior of the Ram 1500 is well-appointed, with advanced technology and luxury features that enhance comfort and convenience.
Ram 2500: The Heavy-Duty Workhorse
Designed for heavy-duty tasks, the 2024 Ram 2500 entered the market in the 1990s. It's a tough truck that excels in towing and payload capacity. Its robust construction and powerful engine options, including a high-torque diesel variant, make it ideal for hauling large loads and handling demanding work environments. Despite its rugged nature, the Ram 2500 doesn't compromise on comfort, offering a refined interior and modern amenities. Due to its more powerful features, it does come with a slightly higher price tag than the Ram 1500.
Trim Levels: What's the Difference?
The Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 share the following trim levels:
- Tradesman.
- Limited.
- Limited Longhorn.
- Lamerie.
- Big Horn.
- Rebel.
While you can get either model in any of those trims, two others differentiate the two trucks. The Tradesman HFE trim is available only for the Ram 1500, and the Power Wagon trim is exclusive to the Ram 2500.
Key Differences Between Ram 1500 and Ram 2500
Understanding the distinctions between the Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 can help you decide which model is best for you. The Ram 1500 offers superior ride quality and greater fuel efficiency due to its lighter-weight build, making it a better choice for daily use and light towing. In contrast, the Ram 2500, with its heavier build and potent engine options, provides greater towing and payload capabilities for heavy-duty tasks and demanding work conditions. The Ram 2500's more powerful engine options and sturdier build may appeal to you if you require more substantial performance.
Here are the main differences at a glance:
| Ram 1500 | Ram 2500 |
| Greater fuel efficiency | More powerful |
| Lighter build | Heavier, more robust build |
| Towing capacity suitable for everyday needs and adventures | Enhanced towing power for heavy-duty hauling |
Which Ram Truck Is Right for You?
Deciding between the Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize comfort, daily usability, and moderate towing, the Ram 1500 is an excellent choice. When properly equipped, it can tow more gear, such as boats and recreational trailers, than most trucks in its class.
However, if your primary requirement is handling heavy loads and rugged tasks, the Ram 2500's superior capabilities make it a more robust and suitable work truck for meeting your demands. Consider your typical driving conditions, towing requirements, and desired features to determine which truck you should get.
Test-Drive the Ram of Your Dreams
The 2024 Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 are two exceptional pickups, each excelling in different areas. Considering your needs and understanding the critical differences between these models, you can choose the Ram truck that best suits your lifestyle and work requirements.
The best way to decide is to get behind the wheel and test-drive each vehicle. Contact us at Huffines CJDR Lewisville to schedule a test drive of both cars today. Whether you opt for the Ram 1500's all-around versatility or the Ram 2500's heavy-duty power, you're assured of a capable and reliable vehicle that's also fun to drive.
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RAM Trucks