2018 RAM 1500 vs. 2018 RAM 2500

The RAM 1500 and RAM 2500 aren’t your average pickup trucks; they’re two of the best. With the light-duty RAM 1500 you can tow in confidence and enjoy plenty of features not offered on competitors like the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The exceptional RAM 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup with an abundance of power, thanks to its gas and diesel engine options. Read on to see which best suits your needs for towing, hauling, and comfort!

Specs & Capacities

Pickup trucks are judged by their power and capabilities—two areas where the RAM 1500 and 2500 excel. Look below to compare the RAM 1500 vs. 2500:

• Engine: The RAM 1500 is offered with two engines: a 3.6L V6 and a 5.7L V8 HEMI for a stronger punch of power. The RAM 2500 gives you four options, including:
  • Two versions of a 5.7L V8 HEMI engine
  • 6.4L Heavy Duty V8 HEMI engine
  • 6.7L I6 Cummins Turbo Diesel engine

• Towing: The 1500 Tradesman 4×2 tows a maximum of 10,620 pounds, while the 2500 Tradesman 4×2 tows up to 17,980 pounds.
• Payload: At the base level, the 1500 can haul as much as 1,880 pounds. The 2500 manages up to 3,060 pounds.
• Fuel-Efficiency: Both trucks get a 32-gallon fuel tank, although the 1500 is capable of earning up to 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway.

All in all, both are exceptionally high performers for their class. If you want a fuel-efficient jack-of-all-trades, the RAM 1500 is proven to last. The RAM 2500, on the other hand, is a great choice for drivers who need no-nonsense power to get the job done.

Features

The Tradesman and Express are the basic work trucks in the 1500 and 2500 lines. However, if you upgrade to the next-level Big Horn, you’ll get more comfort and technology features for your dollar. The RAM 1500 Big Horn comes equipped with:

• Premium cloth upholstery and split-folding front/rear seats
• Uconnect with an 8.4-inch touchscreen with SiriusXM Guardian
• ParkSense Front and Rear Park Assist System (Crew and Quad Cab)
• 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels

Meanwhile, the RAM 2500 Big Horn gets you:

• Premium cloth upholstery and split-folding front/rear seats
• 6-passenger seating
• Fold-flat load floor (Crew)
• Available Uconnect with an 8.4-inch touchscreen and SiriusXM Guardian
• 18-inch polished aluminum wheels

Learn More About the RAM 1500 vs. 2500 Difference!

Compare the 2018 RAM 1500 vs. 2500 in greater depth, or compare the RAM 2500 vs. 3500, at Santa Cruz Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, located in Santa Cruz, CA. We offer a wide selection of new RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 models, as well as a budget-friendly Certified Pre-Owned Program and truck maintenance. Schedule your test drive today! Considering an even more recent RAM truck? You can also compare the 2019 RAM 1500 vs. 2500.