What To Know
- With a maximum towing capacity of 19,000 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 3,210 lbs, it is a true workhorse capable of handling even the most demanding jobs.
- The Ram 2500 diesel has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, while the Ram 1500 diesel has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
- Both the Ram 1500 diesel and the Ram 2500 diesel offer a spacious and comfortable interior with a range of available features to enhance comfort and convenience.
The Ram 1500 and 2500 diesel trucks are two of the most popular choices for those seeking a combination of power, capability, and efficiency. Both trucks offer impressive performance and towing capacities, but there are some key differences between them that potential buyers should consider. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the specifications, capabilities, and features of the Ram 1500 diesel and 2500 diesel to help you make an informed decision.
Engine and Performance:
Ram 1500 Diesel:
- 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel engine
- 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
Ram 2500 Diesel:
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine
- 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque
- 6-speed automatic transmission
As you can see, the Ram 2500 diesel has a clear advantage in terms of power and torque. Its 6.7L Cummins engine produces an impressive 370 horsepower and a massive 850 lb-ft of torque, making it an ideal choice for heavy-duty towing and hauling tasks. The Ram 1500 diesel, on the other hand, offers a more fuel-efficient option with its 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel engine, which produces 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque.
Towing and Payload Capacity:
Ram 1500 Diesel:
- Maximum towing capacity: 12,750 lbs
- Maximum payload capacity: 2,300 lbs
Ram 2500 Diesel:
- Maximum towing capacity: 19,000 lbs
- Maximum payload capacity: 3,210 lbs
The Ram 2500 diesel once again takes the lead in terms of towing and payload capacity. With a maximum towing capacity of 19,000 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 3,210 lbs, it is a true workhorse capable of handling even the most demanding jobs. The Ram 1500 diesel, while still capable, has a lower maximum towing capacity of 12,750 lbs and a lower maximum payload capacity of 2,300 lbs.
Fuel Efficiency:
Ram 1500 Diesel:
- EPA-estimated fuel economy: 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway
Ram 2500 Diesel:
- EPA-estimated fuel economy: 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway
Despite its larger engine and higher towing and payload capacities, the Ram 2500 diesel actually offers slightly better fuel efficiency than the Ram 1500 diesel. The Ram 2500 diesel has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, while the Ram 1500 diesel has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
Off-Road Capability:
Ram 1500 Diesel:
- Available 4×4 system with electronic locking rear axle
- Ground clearance: 8.7 inches
- Approach angle: 26.3 degrees
- Departure angle: 25.1 degrees
- Breakover angle: 22.6 degrees
Ram 2500 Diesel:
- Available 4×4 system with electronic locking front and rear axles
- Ground clearance: 10.8 inches
- Approach angle: 32.6 degrees
- Departure angle: 26.5 degrees
- Breakover angle: 23.8 degrees
The Ram 2500 diesel has a slight edge in terms of off-road capability. It offers a higher ground clearance of 10.8 inches compared to the Ram 1500 diesel’s 8.7 inches. Additionally, the Ram 2500 diesel has better approach, departure, and breakover angles, making it more capable of tackling challenging terrain.
Interior and Features:
Ram 1500 Diesel:
- Available features: Uconnect infotainment system with touchscreen display, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof
Ram 2500 Diesel:
- Available features: Uconnect infotainment system with touchscreen display, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, rear-seat entertainment system
Both the Ram 1500 diesel and the Ram 2500 diesel offer a spacious and comfortable interior with a range of available features to enhance comfort and convenience. However, the Ram 2500 diesel offers a few additional features that the Ram 1500 diesel does not, such as a rear-seat entertainment system.
Pricing:
Ram 1500 Diesel:
- Starting price: $39,820
Ram 2500 Diesel:
- Starting price: $43,045
The Ram 1500 diesel has a lower starting price of $39,820 compared to the Ram 2500 diesel’s starting price of $43,045. However, it is important to note that the price can vary depending on the trim level and options chosen.
The Bottom Line:
The Ram 1500 diesel and the Ram 2500 diesel are both excellent choices for those seeking a powerful and capable pickup truck. The Ram 1500 diesel offers a more fuel-efficient option with impressive towing and payload capacities, while the Ram 2500 diesel provides even more power and capability for heavy-duty tasks. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
What You Need to Know
1. What is the difference between the Ram 1500 diesel and the Ram 2500 diesel?
The Ram 1500 diesel has a 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel engine with 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, while the Ram 2500 diesel has a 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine with 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque. The Ram 2500 diesel also has a higher towing and payload capacity, better off-road capability, and a few additional features.
2. Which one has better fuel efficiency, the Ram 1500 diesel or the Ram 2500 diesel?
The Ram 2500 diesel actually offers slightly better fuel efficiency than the Ram 1500 diesel, with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway compared to the Ram 1500 diesel’s 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
3. What is the starting price for the Ram 1500 diesel and the Ram 2500 diesel?
The Ram 1500 diesel has a starting price of $39,820, while the Ram 2500 diesel has a starting price of $43,045. However, the price can vary depending on the trim level and options chosen.