If you’re in the market for a heavy-duty pickup truck, two contenders might have crossed your path: the Ram 2500 and the 3500 Single Rear Wheel (SRW). Both are well-regarded for their robust capabilities, size, and power.
But how do you decide which is right for you? Let’s delve deeper into the key features and differences of these trucks.
A Brief Comparison table
| Feature | Ram 2500 | Ram 3500 SRW |
| Base Engine | 6.4L Hemi V8 (410 hp, 429 lb-ft torque) | 6.4L Hemi V8 (410 hp, 429 lb-ft torque) |
| Optional Engine | 6.7L Cummins Diesel | High-Output 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel (420 hp, 1075 lb-ft torque) |
| Payload Capacity | Up to 4,010 lbs | Up to 7,680 lbs |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 19,680 lbs | Up to 23,000 lbs |
| Design and Comfort | High-quality interiors with leather seating and advanced infotainment systems | More upscale trim options and additional amenities, while maintaining high-quality interiors |
| Starting Price | Lower | Higher |
Key Differences Between Ram 2500 And 3500
- Payload and Towing Capacity
Both the Ram 2500 and 3500 SRW are beasts when it comes to towing capacity and payload. However, there are notable differences. The Ram 2500 typically handles payloads up to 4,010 lbs and can tow up to 19,680 lbs.
The 3500 SRW, however, ups the ante with a maximum payload of about 7,680 lbs and towing capacity peaking around 23,000 lbs for the single wheel variant. That’s a significant increase that could be a game-changer if you often haul heavy loads.
- Performance and Engine Options
The engines under the hood of these trucks differ as well. The Ram 2500 comes standard with a 6.4L Hemi V8 engine that produces 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque.
Optionally, you can upgrade to a 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, bringing increased torque for those heavy-duty towing tasks.
The Ram 3500 SRW also offers a 6.4L Hemi V8, but it ups the power with an optional 6.7L High-Output Cummins Turbo Diesel.
This engine cranks out up to 420 horsepower and an impressive 1,075 lb-ft of torque. If you’re looking for raw power and performance, the 3500’s High-Output Cummins can’t be beaten.
- Design and Comfort
When it comes to interior comfort and style, both models impress. Both trucks have ample interior space and offer features like leather seating, infotainment systems, and advanced safety features.
However, the Ram 3500 SRW, being a higher model, provides slightly more upscale trim options and additional luxurious amenities.
- Pricing
As expected, there’s a price difference.
The Ram 2500 starts at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option if your needs aren’t too heavy-duty.
However, for those requiring the utmost in towing and payload capacity, the 3500 SRW’s higher price might just be worth the investment.
Key Features of Ram 2500
- Performance: The Ram 2500 offers solid performance with a standard 6.4L Hemi V8 engine delivering 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. An optional 6.7L Cummins diesel engine is also available.
- Towing and Payload: With a maximum payload capacity of 4,010 lbs and towing capacity of 19,680 lbs, the Ram 2500 can handle a variety of heavy-duty tasks.
- Design and Comfort: The Ram 2500 offers a comfortable, well-designed cabin with features like leather seating and advanced infotainment systems.
Key Features of Ram 3500 SRW
- Performance: The Ram 3500 SRW comes standard with a 6.4L Hemi V8 and offers an optional High-Output 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine. This power-packed engine delivers up to 420 horsepower and a staggering 1,075 lb-ft of torque.
- Towing and Payload: The Ram 3500 SRW is designed for the heaviest tasks with a maximum payload capacity of 7,680 lbs and a towing capacity of up to 23,000 lbs.
- Design and Comfort: The Ram 3500 SRW ups the luxury with slightly more upscale trim options and additional amenities. Like the 2500, it offers spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and sophisticated infotainment systems.
Also Read: Should You Get 67 Designs Or RAM Mount?
FAQ Section
The most significant differences between the Ram 2500 and the 3500 SRW are towing and payload capacities, engine options, and pricing. The 3500 SRW offers higher capacities, more powerful engine options, and slightly more luxurious trims, but comes with a higher price tag.
Arguably, the biggest difference between these two models is the engine performance and towing capabilities. The Ram 3500’s optional High-Output Cummins Turbo Diesel engine and increased towing capacity make it more suitable for extremely heavy-duty tasks.
Both models offer a Cummins diesel engine option, but the 3500 SRW has an available High-Output version of the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel. This upgrade provides a significant boost in horsepower and torque compared to the standard Cummins engine offered in the 2500.
The single wheel Ram 3500 can tow up to an impressive 23,000 lbs when properly equipped, making it a highly capable choice for heavy-duty tasks and towing large trailers.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while both the Ram 2500 and 3500 SRW have their strengths, your choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget.
If you need the most powerful engine and the highest towing capacity, the 3500 SRW is the way to go.
However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option that still provides significant power and towing capacity, the Ram 2500 won’t disappoint.
