Ram 1500 vs. Ram 2500 Comparison & Differences

If you're shopping for a work-ready pickup that's as refined as it is rugged, start your search with a Ram 1500 vs. Ram 2500 comparison. This brand's full-size trucks are among the most sought-after pickups on the planet for several reasons, including their legendary capability, available HEMI V-8 and Cummins turbo diesel engine options, and premium interior. However, which Ram model is right for you?

Let's compare Ram 1500 to Ram 2500 specs to determine which of these powerful pickups you prefer as your next work truck or daily driver.

To make this a fair fight, we compare the 2022 Ram 1500 vs. 2022 Ram 2500. These Ram trucks of the same model year have plenty in common, but as you'll see, there are certainly some areas where they differ.

Stay tuned as we look at their pricing, performance, dimensions, and more.

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Ram 1500 vs. 2500: Pricing

Consider our new Ram 1500 inventory with the following trims and pricing:

• Ram 1500 Tradesman Quad Cab 4x2 6'4" Box: Starting at $36,500 MSRP¹
• Ram 1500 Big Horn Quad Cab 4x2 6'4" Box: Starting at $41,815 MSRP¹
• Ram 1500 Laramie Crew Cab 4x2 6'4" Box: Starting at $50,240 MSRP¹
• Ram 1500 Rebel Crew Cab 4x2 5'7" Box: Starting at $51,385 MSRP¹
• Ram 1500 Limited Longhorn Crew Cab 4x2 5'7" Box: Starting at $57,970 MSRP¹
• Ram 1500 Limited Crew Cab 4x2 5'7" Box: Starting at $62,685 MSRP¹

Then, compare the 2022 Ram 1500 vs. 2022 Ram 2500 in trims and pricing:

• Ram 2500 Tradesman Regular Cab 4x2 8' Box: Starting at $43,415 MSRP¹
• Ram 2500 Big Horn Regular Cab 4x2 8' Box: Starting at $47,535 MSRP¹
• Ram 2500 Laramie Crew Cab 4x2 6'4" Box: Starting at $59,115 MSRP¹
• Ram 2500 Power Wagon Crew Cab 4X4 6'4" Box: Starting at $63,355 MSRP¹
• Ram 2500 Limited Crew Cab 4x2 8' Box: Starting at $71,350 MSRP¹

Ram 2500 vs. 1500: Performance

Both Ram pickups impress when it comes to performance. However, you'll find that these trucks are made for slightly different purposes.

The light-duty full-size truck, the Ram 1500, is a popular choice among many motorists due to its all-around performance and array of engine choices. The 2022 Ram 1500 boasts five potent engine options:

• 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6: 260 horsepower, 480 pound-feet of torque
• 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 with eTorque: 305 horsepower, 269 pound-feet of torque
• 5.7-liter HEMI V-8: 395 horsepower, 410 pound-feet of torque
• 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with eTorque: 395 horsepower, 410 pound-feet of torque
• 6.2-liter Supercharged HEMI V-8: 702 horsepower, 650 pound-feet of torque

In contrast, our new Ram 2500 inventory offers the following powertrain options:

• 6.4-liter HEMI V-8: 410 horsepower, 429 pound-feet of torque
• 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel I-6: 370 horsepower, 850 pound-feet of torque

Fewer engine choices aren't a disadvantage when those two options include a legendary HEMI V-8 and a Cummins turbo diesel I-6.

How about towing capacity and MPG? The 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel on the Ram 2500 can tow up to 20,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it the winner in this category.

To tow a lot for a more competitive price, you can also look at the 2021 Ram 2500 lineup, as it offers enhanced towing capabilities compared to the Ram 1500. However, if you're after a well-rounded light-duty pickup with impressive MPG, a 2021 Ram 1500 fits the bill.

Compare Ram 1500 to Ram 2500 Dimensions

When shopping for a new pickup truck that offers plenty of space for your crew and your cargo, the 2022 Ram 1500 and 2022 Ram 2500 models are both great choices. They can each accommodate up to six occupants in comfort, depending on your chosen configuration. They also offer ample cargo space inside their cab and back in the bed.

How do they compare in key dimensions? Let's take a look:

When comparing the 2022 Ram 1500 Big Horn 4x2 Crew Cab 6'4" Box vs. the 2022 Ram 2500 Big Horn 4x2 Crew Cab 6'4" Box, we find that the Ram 1500 has a longer wheelbase and is longer overall from bumper to bumper. Its slightly longer dimensions mean that the Ram 1500 offers a bit more cargo capacity than the Ram 2500, but it's close.

With multiple cab styles available for each model, it's really splitting hairs when you compare the dimensions of the 2022 Ram 2500 vs. the 2022 Ram 1500. They offer similar levels of cabin space and cargo capacity depending on which cab styles you're comparing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Ram 1500 weigh?

A Ram 1500 Tradesman 4x2 Crew Cab 5'7" Box tips the scales at 6,900 pounds. As one of the more affordable and lighter options among the 2022 Ram 1500 lineup, that should give you an idea of how much a Ram 1500 can weigh. A fully loaded 4x4 model with the largest cab and cargo box available can weigh over 7,000 pounds.

Are Ram 1500 and 2500 beds the same size?

Both the Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 can be had with a 6'4" box, so in that specification, the truck beds are the same. However, the Ram 1500 offers a 5'7" short bed, and the Ram 2500 is available with an 8' long bed. Since these pickups offer differing bed lengths, every truck buyer can find their ideal Ram model for hauling cargo.

How much can a Ram 2500 tow?

When equipped with its available 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine, the 2022 Ram 2500 offers a maximum towing capacity of 20,000 pounds.² That's mighty impressive and should provide plenty of capability for even the toughest tasks of any job site or weekend project. Get into a new Ram 2500 truck for sale for stellar towing performance.

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¹MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title and registration fees. Starting at price refers to the base model, optional equipment not included. A more expensive model may be shown. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification. To get full pricing details, see your dealer.

²When properly equipped. See dealer for details.

³EPA-estimated MPG. Actual mileage may vary.