2018 Ram 1500 vs 2500

2018 Ram 1500

2018 Ram 2500

2018 Ram 1500 vs 2018 Ram 2500

Serving Fitchburg, Leominster, and Worcester, MA

When you need a tough truck, the 2018 Ram 1500 and 2500 varieties offer a continuum of capability. When it comes to interiors, these two are more similar than different, and that makes it easier to simply pick the capability that’s right for you.

Performance

For everyday basics, the Ram’s 305-horsepower V6 may be enough. With 15 to 20 more horses, it beats the Silverado V6 (285 horsepower) and the F-150 V6 (290 horsepower). You can step up to the HEMI V8 and horsepower rises to 395. The torque rate is 410 lb.-ft. The Ram Ecodiesel cranks out 420 lb.-ft. to assist 240 horsepower. From top engineering tricks to automatic air shutters, Ram has worked to make this fleet as fuel efficient as possible. The Ram 2500 offers a similar HEMI V8, but its tougher build lets it do a bit more than the 1500. The 2500 also offers a 6.4-liter V8 that cranks out 410 horsepower and 429 lb.-ft. of torque. Both trucks have a special rear suspension that provides a best-in-class ride quality. A five-link coil spring set-up absorbs bumps and smooths the ride. Drivers will appreciate how this feature improves handling. Likewise, both trucks can benefit from a four-corner leveling air suspension. It regulates the bed load, balancing it for greater safety. Better weight distribution also helps with aerodynamics. On the worksite, drivers may use it to gain ground clearance or to lower it for loading purposes. During highway driving it lowers itself to reduce drag.

Appearance

As tough as the Ram 1500 appears, the Ram 2500 is even tougher with a stronger inner core with more steel in strategic places. If the 1500 is alone, it looks plenty muscular, but if you sit it by the 2500, you’ll notice that the heavy duty truck is more substantial. Curb appeal is equal these days. The elongated oval grille wears black mesh and is fronted by cross bars with the Ram logo at the center. Inside the comparisons continue. Material quality is the first hallmark of design, regardless of trim level. Comfort is the main order of business in the Tradesman. As you climb the ladder, dash tech becomes front and center with a touchscreen and the latest smartphone integration features. With Laramie and higher editions, you have a choice of fine leathers and special design features. If you want something even more upscale, the newest trim is the luxury-minded Limited Tungsten. New this year for both models, there’s a Harvest trim, made especially for farmers. It comes in special blue or red shades to match New Holland and Case IH equipment. The Ram 1500 Rebel and Ram 2500 Power Wagon offer two very different looks to appeal to adventure-minded buyers.

Safety

The two models come with a blanket of airbags. Traction controls work with the driver to reduce accident situations. With better traction and greater stability, Ram trucks can stay out of harm’s way. The trucks also offer help in other ways. For instance, the Ram 1500 Harvest and 2500 Harvest have a special raised suspension and skid plates to prevent off-road damage. A rearview camera is standard, and a cargo-view camera is available as well.

The best way to decide between the two pickups is to take a closer look. You’ll find the 2018 Ram 1500 and 2018 Ram 2500 at the Ron Bouchard Ram dealership.

* When properly equipped. See dealer for details.