Which RAM Vehicle Is the Right Model for Me?

Benson’s Ingram Park Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram has been in the business of selling cars and trucks in the great state of Texas for nearly 50 years. In that time, we’ve learned a thing or two about what customers are looking for in a new vehicle, even if they don’t always know themselves.

Since the old days, whenever a customer tells us they are looking for something rugged that they can take off-roading, or for a workhorse that they can use for towing and other heavy-duty jobs, we recommend a Dodge RAM. Nowadays, people also want the modern technological conveniences that come with new vehicle models. Luckily, new RAM vehicles in San Antonio come in several different models, and finding the right one is just a matter of determining what is best for your specific needs.

Below, we’ll help you to compare and contrast the different Dodge RAM models available, so that you can decide for yourself what the right one is for you.

What Sets RAM Apart?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details of the different models, let’s look at what, exactly, sets RAM apart as a brand from other vehicles in its class. Besides the obvious—it was Chuck Norris’s truck of choice in Walker, Texas Ranger—RAMs are sturdily built, long-lasting vehicles that tend to maintain a high resale value over time. This means that if you choose RAM over the competition, you can take advantage of its reputation for reliability.

The Dodge RAM is also famed for its versatility. That is, you’re just as likely to see them in the city serving as a commuter vehicle as you are to see them accessing remote parts of the state that other vehicles just don’t have the power to reach.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Model

We’ve extolled the virtues of the RAM brand in general, but to choose the right model for you, you’ll need to pinpoint exactly what your needs are. The first consideration—the biggest for many car buyers—is budget. RAM vehicles can range in price from $34,000 to $87,000 and up, depending on what dealer options you decide to go with. This is obviously a pretty wide range, so you’ll have plenty of room to decide what will suit you best. Still, it’s a good idea to nail down exactly how much you are expecting to spend on your RAM vehicle.

You’ll also want to take your lifestyle into consideration. How are you planning to use the vehicle most of the time? Will your truck mostly be used for basic transportation with only some light towing needs? Or do you need a powerhouse of a vehicle that can haul massive amounts of weight over large distances? Take time to really think about what you’ll do with your RAM vehicle over the course of its lifetime.

With all of that in mind, let’s take a look at the models that are available to choose from:

RAM 1500

One of the most popular pickup trucks out there, the RAM 1500 boasts a 3.6-liter V6 engine. This means it brings plenty of power to the table for most ordinary tasks. Its maximum towing capacity sits at around 7,740 pounds. You can already tow a lot with that, but of course, if you expect your vehicle to regularly be performing tasks that involve hauling even more massive loads, you’ll need to opt for a model with more horsepower.

Where the RAM 1500 really excels is as a more powerful version of a commuter vehicle. It has seating for up to six people, making it the perfect car for an adventurous family who enjoys getting off the beaten path every once in a while. Speaking of families, the RAM 1500 also comes equipped with state-of-the-art safety features, such as Lane Departure Warning. Plus, the 18-inch wheels on a RAM 1500 are exactly what you need to access some of the more rugged parts of Texas for any adventure.

RAM 2500

If you’re looking for something with more towing capacity or a higher payload, then look no further than the RAM 2500, which carries a 6.4-liter V8 engine and can tow up to 20,000 pounds.

While its capacity to perform work is incredibly impressive, the RAM 2500 is not as ideal as a family vehicle. It can only seat three people comfortably, so it may not be the car for you if you’re looking for a commuter vehicle for more people than that.

The RAM 2500 also stands out with its technology integration. Unlike the RAM 1500 and other cars in its class, you can connect your electronic devices to your RAM 2500 to use them seamlessly while on the road. Note that, while it has plenty of safety options, the RAM 2500 does not have all the same innovative safety features as the RAM 1500, so take this into consideration and talk to your dealer about your specific needs when choosing your preferred vehicle model.

RAM 3500

The RAM 3500 is on another level when it comes to raw power. With a 6.7-liter High Output Cummins Engine, it is capable of generating up to 420 horsepower and commands a towing capacity of 37,090 pounds. This is a vehicle that rivals small industrial machines with the payload, towing capacity, and torque it brings to bear.

Because it’s built for raw power, the RAM 3500 uses Hotchkiss Leaf Spring Rear Suspension, which supports the weight of the chassis and controls axle damping. Although, this means that it won’t provide as smooth of a driving experience as the other two models we’ve mentioned.

When they’re looking for new RAM vehicles, San Antonio customers are always impressed by the RAM 3500’s price point. With a starting MSRP of $44,520, it’s really not that much more expensive than the other models on this list. Plus, it comes with a list of reliable safety features.

If you’re in the market for a new RAM vehicle in San Antonio, come see us at Benson’s Ingram Park Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and take a test drive. You’ll be driving your new Dodge RAM home before you know it.