When it comes to full-size pickup trucks, people want their vehicles to be reliable and strong. Two contenders that have repeatedly performed well include Toyota's Tundra and Dodge's Ram Truck series. A Tundra vs. Ram comparison is apt for anyone looking to buy a new truck.
The Dodge Ram 1500
The Ram Truck is a mainstay of Dodge's vehicle line, and the 1500 represents
the full-size entry level pickup for the brand. The vehicle has a long history;
for years its only competition was from the Ford and Chevrolet/GMC truck lines.
However, modern advancements and a full-throttle market encroachment by Toyota have
changed things.
The engine on the Ram comes in a variety of choices, with the baseline block
being a V6 engine; however, a buyer can upgrade to a V8 model or a diesel
engine. The standard V6 comes with a 3.7-liter engine that produces 235
horsepower. The V8, on the other hand, gives a driver 345 horsepower when
coupled with a Hemi design.
The truck comes with a two- or four-door design, sunroof, and satellite radio options, upgraded suspension, and 17-inch wheels. Driving response is good, and steering is easy with a tight turning radius. The interior varies, depending on the trim level chosen. Choices range from a basic cloth interior to leather seating with the premium Laramie edition. Larger 20-inch wheels are optional, as are bed lengths for body choices.
The Toyota Tundra
Toyota has had a long history of building trucks that don’t die, but the full-size truck market is under 15 years, having had its start with the T100. The Tundra of yesteryear is the full-size Tacoma today, and the modern Tundra represents a monster compared to its first issue models. Consumers can purchase the Tundra in three choices: baseline, SR5, and the Limited. These include two- and four-door models.
The engine on the Tundra is provided by 4.0-liter V6 base engine that puts out 236 horsepower. Buyers can opt for a V8 4.7-liter choice that gives 271 horsepower. Additionally, a beefy 5.7-liter V8 is available, producing 381 horsepower. Unlike most trucks, the upgraded V8 is matched by a six-speed transmission versus five.
In terms of performance, many comment that the Tundra is like driving a full-size truck that thinks it’s a luxury sedan. The drive is smooth and responsive, with little in the way of outside noises, impacts, or thin-feeling materials. The interior is cloth for the baseline models, but leather is a clear standard for the Limited premium edition. Lots of electronic benefits and connections for personal gadgets are included. The sound system is no cheap offering either.
The sturdiness of the Tundra makes it
a fine work truck as well, and the long-term reliability of Tundra engines and
parts makes the vehicle a great investment for commercial buyers as well. Easy
opening of the tailgate provides smooth loading, and dampening on the rear axle
prevents cargo from being damaged by road bounce. The truck also includes
state-of-the-art safety features like front and side airbags as well as
advanced braking and stability. A rear camera is optional but very helpful.
In Summary
There is no question in a Tundra vs. Ram comparison that the two trucks do very
well. Most buyers will be attracted to one truck or the others because of smaller,
more personal aspects versus large issues. So the only way to really find out which
truck works best is to do personal Tundra vs. Ram test drives. And for those in
the Ohio area interested in purchasing a truck, Dayton Toyota is ready to help.
