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| Toyota Tundra vs. Dodge Ram | |
| I've driven both the Toyota Tundra and the Dodge Ram and compared not only the features of the trucks but also the specs and my impressions of both trucks. While I didn't compare every aspect, I have highlighted what I believe are the key differences between the trucks. I encourage anyone thinking about buying either truck to drive both of them and to read as many reviews as you can before making a decision. Comparing the Dodge HEMI SLT QuadCab to the Toyota 5.7L Tundra DoubleCab SR5, both in 4x4, was quite a bit of fun. Both trucks are big. Both trucks are fast. Both are capable of making their owners very happy. However, there are some key differences. The engines of these trucks are both powerful -- 381hp for the Toyota, 345hp for the Dodge, and both of these engines have excellent acceleration. However the HEMI uses a less sophisticated pushrod engine design compared to the iForce's DOHC design. Toyota's engine uses more technology to control combustion, and the result is quite a bit more power than the HEMI as well as better efficiency. I noticed the Tundra's fuel economy was about 2mpg better than the Ram during my test, and I'm sure this is due to Tundra's superior engine technology. Considering the Toyota is much more powerful, this is a major advantage to buying the Tundra. Comparing transmissions wasn't too surprising -- the Ram has a five speed auto, the Tundra a six-speed, and as expected the Tundra accelerated better and shifted more smoothly than the Ram. Combine the Tundra's higher tow rating of 10,300 lbs to Ram's 8,500 lbs and it's clear the Tundra's transmission is also stronger. As far as braking goes, the Ram and Tundra are basically tied in terms of stopping distance. But the Ram lacks standard 4 wheel ABS, has smaller diameter front rotors, and offers only non-ventilated rear rotors. The Toyota has both more standard features and superior brake system components. I think that Toyota dropped the ball when it comes to frame design -- while most trucks in the segment feature fully-boxed frames head to toe (including the Ram), the Tundra has a boxed section up front with the remainder of the frame being open c-channel. While only time will tell if the Tundra's frame is as strong as the Ram, Toyota would have been more comparable to the Ram if they had chosen a full length boxed frame. The interiors of the Ram and the Tundra are completely different. The Tundra is nicer and more comfortable than the Ram, with more features and better quality materials. The Ram is an older truck (design-wise) than the Toyota, so the Toyota's superior interior is to be expected. I enjoyed driving the Ram. It handles just as well as the Tundra, and it also has a better government safety rating (5 stars) than the Tundra (only 4 stars). I also think the Ram is the best looking half-ton truck on the market. However, the Ram is of an older design than the Tundra, and it shows when you look at the Toyota's superior interior, technology, and power. Clearly the Ram isn't as nice as the new Tundra, but that could change when Dodge brings out the new Ram in 2009. |
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