While both models share similar styling and available engines, their underlying hardware, suspension setups, and maximum load ratings differ significantly. Here is a breakdown of how the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 compare across key specs, towing limits, payload numbers, and real-world performance.
| Feature/Metric | Ram 2500 | Ram |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Suspension | Class-Exclusive 5-Link Coil Springs (Air option available) | Heavy-Duty Hotchkiss Leaf Springs |
| Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) | Single Rear Wheel (SRW) only | Available (Single or Dually) |
| Max Gas Towing (6.4L HEMI®) | Up to 17,750 lbs | Up to 18,150 lbs |
| Max Diesel Towing (Cummins®) | Up to 20,000 lbs | Up to 36,610 lbs |
| Max Payload Rating | Up to 3,930 lbs | Up to 7,590 lbs |
| Max GVWR | Up to 10,000 lbs | Up to 14,000 lbs |
1. Powertrain Options & Torque Output
Both heavy-duty models offer two formidable powertrains:
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6.4L HEMI® V8 Gasoline Engine: Delivers a reliable 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, paired with an efficient 8-speed automatic transmission. This setup provides strong punch for daily hauling without the added maintenance requirements of diesel.
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6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6: Available across the lineup, with the High-Output version producing 430 horsepower and a massive 1,075 lb-ft of torque.
While both trucks can be equipped with diesel power, the Ram 3500 utilizes a higher Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) to turn that 1,075 lb-ft of torque into top-tier gooseneck and fifth-wheel towing performance.
2. Suspension Setup: Coils vs. Leaf Springs
The biggest difference in daily driving dynamics comes down to what lies beneath the truck bed:
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Ram 2500 (5-Link Coil Rear Suspension): Designed for a smoother, more compliant ride when the bed is empty or carrying lighter loads. It rides much more like a half-ton truck, making it ideal if your pickup doubles as a daily family commuter.
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Ram 3500 (Hotchkiss Leaf Springs): Engineered strictly for maximum weight capacity. Leaf springs handle extreme tongue weights and heavy bed loads with minimal sag, though the unladen ride will naturally feel firmer.
3. Towing & Payload Realities
Towing Capability
If you're pulling a travel trailer, mid-sized boat, or standard equipment trailer under 18,000 lbs, a
Keep in mind: Per Ram guidelines, a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch setup is required for loads exceeding 20,000 lbs on the Ram 2500 and 23,000 lbs on the Ram 3500.
Payload Demands
Payload capacity is often the deciding factor for commercial operators and farmers. While a gas-powered 2500 offers up to 3,930 lbs of bed payload, the dually-configured Ram 3500 boasts up to 7,590 lbs of payload capacity—allowing you to carry heavy tools, liquid tanks, or heavy pin weights without exceeding Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR).
Which Heavy-Duty Pickup Right for You?
Choose the Ram 2500 if:
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Your total trailering needs stay under 20,000 lbs.
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You want a heavy-duty truck with a smooth, comfortable ride when unladen.
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You prefer single-rear-wheel maneuverability for parking lots and tight spaces.
Choose the Ram 3500 if:
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You pull heavy gooseneck or fifth-wheel rigs regularly.
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You need a dual-rear-wheel (dually) configuration for high-speed highway stability under load.
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You are outfitting commercial work trucks for Broadway CDJR fleet applications that require max payload and GVWR ratings.
Test Drive Heavy-Duty Power at Broadway CDJR
Whether you need a versatile 2500 for weekend towing or high-capacity