Compare 2026 Ram 1500 vs 2026 Ram 2500

2026 RAM 1500 vs 2026 RAM 2500
2026 RAM 1500 2026 RAM 2500

  Engine

3.6L V6 6.4L V8

  Horsepower

305 hp 405 hp

  Max Towing Capacity

11,610 lbs * 20,000 lbs *

  Max Payload Capacity

2,360 lbs * 3,930 lbs *

2026 RAM 1500 vs 2026 RAM 2500

Serving Midwest City, OK

While the RAM 1500 offers the greatest towing capacity of light-duty pickup trucks in the U.S. today, you might question if you should consider a step up with the heavy-duty RAM 2500. These models offer exceptional features, muscular style and strong performance, but there are important differences between them. After learning more about the options, which RAM truck will you choose?

Performance

The RAM 1500 has three available powertrains in 2026. The base engine is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo, inline-six engine. It produces 420 horsepower and 469 foot-pounds of torque. The high-output twin-turbo V6 gives you 540 horsepower with 521 pound-feet of torque. There is also a 5.7-liter V8 that produces 395 horsepower with 410 pound-feet of torque.

The primary engine offered for most RAM 2500 trim levels is a Hemi V8, 6.4-liter engine. It delivers 405 horsepower with 429 pound-feet of torque. Every Mega Cab version of the RAM 2500 has an inline-six, 6.7-liter turbo-diesel engine. It generates 430 horsepower and 1,075 pound-feet of torque.

Appearance

The RAM 1500 and the RAM 2500 share strong family genes. Both have a powerfully sculpted hood and a commanding front-end design. The RAM 1500 has smoothly sculpted sides with pinstripe definition rolling over the fenders and across the lower door panels. At the front, the grille spans across most of the nose, and it connects with rectangular LED headlights.

The RAM 2500 stands taller and has subtly flared sides. At the front, the grille has an innovative and slightly A-framed shape. The headlights are sectioned. The upper section features a row of small bulbs topped by an LED bar. The lower section is thicker with two LED bulbs.

Features

Many of the features offered in the RAM 1500 are also available in the RAM 2500. These include evasive steering assistance, active hands-free driving assistance, leather upholstery, a surround-view camera, a premium sound system, a front passenger display screen, dual smartphone chargers, heated seats, a RamBox cargo management system, adaptive cruise control, a power-sliding rear window, and other features. The RAM 2500 is also available with in-cabin electrical outlets, side steps, and more.

Test Drive a RAM Truck Today

Our friendly team at David Stanley Dodge is committed to providing you with a great shopping experience. With our focus on customer service and our large inventory, we make it easy to find what you're looking for. Visit David Stanley Dodge today to continue learning about the RAM trucks.

Images are for illustration purposes only.
* When properly equipped. Max payload/towing ratings shown for base configuration. Additional options, equipment, passengers and cargo weight may affect payload/towing weights. Contact dealer for details.

© 2026 David Stanley Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM
Across from Tinker in Midwest City!