Differences Between Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500

September 13th, 2023 by

2023 RAM Truck Lineup

  • The 2024 RAM 1500 starts at $37,920, the 2500 at $46,075 and the 3500 at $48,180.
  • We have plenty of RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 in stock here at Safford Brown CDJR of Sterling, Virginia.
  • The electrified RAM 1500 REV is expected to be released later Q4 of 2024.

Capability Differences Between the RAM Truck Lineup

The RAM line of pickup trucks has been an American staple as long as time immemorial. With an instantly recognizable front fascia and silhouette, the RAM 1500 delivers impressive performance, endless versatility, and solid build quality for the toughest terrain and jobs. With all the different models, however, some prospective buyers might get a little confused as to which model will suit them best. Today, we go over the differences between the RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 so that you can be better prepared for your RAM pickup truck purchase here at Safford Brown CDJR of Sterling, Virginia.

Varying Towing Capacities

The RAM 1500 offers two engine options; a 5.7-liter Hemi V8  and a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6.

  • 5.7-liter Hemi V8: 12,750 pounds of maximum towing capacity
  • 3.6-liter Pentastar V6: 7,730 pounds of maximum towing capacity

The RAM 2500 provides a massive 6.4-liter Hemi V8 and an available 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine.

  • 6.4-liter Hemi V8: 17,730 pounds of maximum towing capacity
  • 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel: 19,980 pounds of maximum towing capacity

Last but not least, the RAM 3500 has three robust engine options; a 6.4-liter Hemi V8, a 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel I6, and an available High-Output 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel I6.

  • 6.4-liter Hemi V8: 18,210 pounds of maximum towing capacity
  • 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel: 22,660 pounds of maximum towing capacity
  • 6.4-liter Hemi V8: 37,090 pounds of maximum towing capacity

Varying Payload Capacities

RAM doesn’t offer payload figures for the 2024 RAM 1500, but it does boast a maximum payload of 2,300 pounds. 

The RAM 2500 boasts a maximum payload of 3,140 pounds when using the Hemi V8, and 4,000 pounds with the Cummins Turbo Diesel.

When equipped with the Hemi V8, the RAm 3500 carries 7,680 pounds,  and with the Cummins Turbo Diesel, 6,830 pounds. The Available High-Output Cummins delivers slightly less at 6,560 pounds.

Varying Performance and Fuel Economy

RAM 1500 Horsepower and Fuel Economy

  • 5.7-liter Hemi V8
    395 Horsepower/410 lb-ft of torque
    17/23 mpg (RWD), 17/22 mpg (4WD)
  • 3.6-liter Pentastar V6
    305 Horsepower/ 271 lb-ft of torque
    20/25 mpg (RWD), 19/24 mpg (4WD)

RAM 2500 Horsepower and Fuel Economy

  • 6.4-liter Hemi V8
    410 Horsepower/429 lb-ft of torque
  • 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel
    370 Horsepower/ 850 lb-ft of torque

RAM 3500 Horsepower and Fuel Economy

  • 6.4-liter Hemi V8
    410 Horsepower/429 lb-ft of torque
  • 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel
    370 Horsepower/ 850 lb-ft of torque
  • High Output 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel
    420  Horsepower/ 1,075 lb-ft of torque

Unfortunately, RAM doesn’t provide fuel economy numbers for the RAM 2500 and 3500.

Concluding Thoughts

Each RAM pickup truck serves a different purpose, so it’s really impossible to say which one is better. It all comes down to preference and what you’ll use your RAM truck for. If you’re interested, check out our RAM pickup trucks here at Safford Brown CDJR of Sterling, Virginia. Also check out our Monthly CDJRF Deals for the latest RAM deals, offers, and incentives.

We are currently updating our monthly offers. Please check back shortly for updates.

In the meantime, here are some links that you might find helpful:

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