2023 RAM 1500 vs. 2500 

We at Pat McGrath Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM offer a full lineup of pickup trucks from Jeep and RAM, as well as SUVs and muscle cars from Dodge and Chrysler. Two of our bestselling work trucks are the RAM 1500 and RAM 2500, both iconic flagships in their own right with powerhouse specs and capabilities. They're both great choices, but there are some important differences between these two trucks. Which model better suits your driving needs around Waterloo or Iowa City? Find out in the comparison guide below!

RAM 1500 Inventory RAM 1500 Inventory

2023 RAM 1500 vs. RAM 2500: Price & Interior

Let's start our comparison by seeing how the RAM 1500 and 2500 stack up in terms of price tag. The RAM 1500 is classified as a light-duty pickup truck while the RAM 2500 is a heavy-duty model, so naturally the 1500 is more affordable right off the bat. However, the 2500 compensates with increased power and capabilities! We'll get into more details below, but for now check out the sticker price for both models:

  • 2023 RAM 1500 - $37,410 MSRP
  • 2023 RAM 2500 - $44,675 MSRP

You'll find everything you need for a smooth and safe ride inside the cabins of both of these trucks. Both can comfortably seat up to six passengers across two rows of seats, but the RAM 2500 can initially only seat three while the RAM 1500 seats six from the base-level trim. There are also a few differences in amenities: both trucks offer features like a six-speaker audio system and parking assist technology, but the RAM 1500 also comes with Bluetooth connectivity and the available RamBox Cargo Management System!

2023 RAM 1500 vs. RAM 2500: Performance

When comparing the RAM 1500 or 2500, the biggest difference is in their respective capabilities. As a heavy-duty model, the RAM 2500 naturally has more towing and payload power, letting you haul nearly 20,000 pounds of cargo behind your truck with ease. The RAM 2500 also offers up to 850 lb-ft of torque on its Turbo-Diesel engine, by far the most torque you can find between the two trucks. The RAM 1500 takes the advantage when it comes to engine power, however, with four available powertrains to the 2500's two, including the legendary HEMI V8 with 702 horsepower! Compare specs below:

2023 RAM 1500

  • 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 Engine: 260 hp / 480 lb-ft of torque
  • 3.6L Pentastar® V6 with eTorque: 305 hp / 273 lb-ft of torque
  • 5.7L V8 HEMI® with eTorque: 395 hp / 410 lb-ft of torque
  • Supercharged 6.2L HEMI® V8 (TRX): 702 hp / 650 lb-ft of torque
  • Maximum towing capacity: 12,750 pounds
  • Maximum payload capacity: 2,300 pounds

2023 RAM 2500

  • 6.7L Cummins® I6 Turbo Diesel: 370 hp / 850 lb-ft of torque
  • Heavy-Duty 6.4L HEMI® V8: 410 hp / 429 lb-ft of torque
  • Maximum towing capacity: 19,990 pounds
  • Maximum payload capacity: 4,000 pounds

Compare Trucks in Person at Pat McGrath Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM

Still on the fence deciding between the RAM 1500 or 2500? Compare how they handle the Animosa and Marion roads for yourself! Just contact our office to see what we have available and we'll take it from there. If you've made up your mind and want to move forward with the buying process, you can apply for financing right from our website or drop by our showroom in Cedar Rapids.