Key Takeaways:
- The main difference between the Ram 3500 and the 2500 is that the 3500 is built to, and does, have higher towing capacity than the 2500.
- The Ram 2500 rides smoother than the 3500 as it does not have the heavier leaf spring suspension system.
- Deciding between the Ram 2500 or the 3500 depends on how much towing and hauling capacity needed.
What is the difference between the Ram 3500 and the Ram 2500?
The main difference between the two heavy duty trucks is their towing capacities. The 3500 will generally be able to tow significantly more than the 2500. For example, in the current generation the max towing for the 3500 is 37,090 lbs. (best in class in 2022), and the 2500 is able to tow up to 20,000 lbs. on the high end. Their payloads also differ greatly, with the 3500 is able to carry 7,680 lbs. and the 2500 is able to carry 3,160 pounds. This kind of difference generally exists throughout the past generations of the Ram HD truck, however past years did not always have such a chasm between the two. Due to the difference in towing capacities and larger engines, there are also differences with the suspension and other mechanical differences between the 3500 and 2500. As a result there can be differences in ride quality and comfort. When looking at used trucks, here are the past towing capabilities for each generation of the Ram 2500, and 3500.
1993 – 2002 Max Towing and Payload Capacities:
- Ram 2500 had 13,300 pounds of towing capacity and 3,020 pounds of payload capacity
- Ram 3500 had 13,450 pounds of towing capacity and 4,602 pounds of payload capacity.
2003 – 2008 Max Towing and Payload Capacities:
- Ram 2500 had 13,000 pounds of towing capacity and 2,590 pounds of payload capacity
- Ram 3500 had 15,680 pounds of towing capacity and 3,000 pounds of payload capacity
2009 – 2018 Max Towing and Payload Capacities
- Ram 2500 had 15,540 pounds of towing capacity and 1,960 pounds of payload capacity
- Ram 3500 had 28,820 pounds of towing capacity and 4,360 pounds of payload capacity
2019 – Present Max Towing and Payload Capacities
- Ram 2500 has 20,000 pounds of towing capacity and 3,160 pounds of payload capacity
- Ram 3500 has 37,090 pounds of towing capacity and 6,570 pounds of payload capacity
Does a Ram 2500 ride better than a 3500?
For the most part, a Ram 2500 will ride better than a 3500. This is a result of the different suspension often used in a 3500, which is a leaf spring suspension. This spreads the heavier loads safer, but makes for a stiffer ride. That is something you will need to keep in mind as you go through the different model years, and look for the perfect mix of towing capability and comfort. The Ram truck does offer quite a few creature comforts on both series, and both can handle quite well.
Why Buy a Ram 2500 over a 3500?
The main reasons to purchase a Ram 2500 over the 3500 would be, that you do not need the higher tow capacity of the 3500, the Ram 2500 offers a smoother ride, and comes in at about $2,000 cheaper. The Ram 2500 still gets you a Cummins engine, but not the high output diesel available on the 3500. While going with a 3500 might make sense when you have a much heavier tow and haul, oftentimes the 2500 can get the job done, with more comfort and for cheaper.