Toyota Tundra vs. Dodge Ram

I've compared the Dodge Ram and the Toyota Tundra to see which truck is best. While I didn't evaluate EVERYTHING, I did compare the key components and highlight any distinct differences between the two trucks. As always, I encourage everyone to drive all vehicles they're considering to find out for themselves which is best. Also, make sure to investigate what reputable reviewers like Edmunds and Consumer Reports have to say too.

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.

When comparing the 5.7L HEMI to the 5.7L iForce, it's important to note that the HEMI is a pushrod setup and the iForce is DOHC. While pushrod gives the HEMI good low-end power, it lacks the efficiency of the Toyota's DOHC setup. Most importantly, that lower efficiency results in lower fuel economy. The decent performance of the HEMI makes it worthy of recognition, but that recognition is overshadowed by poor fuel economy as a result of the old push-rod engine design. The Toyota is more powerful and in my test got better mileage.

The Dodge I tested came with a five speed automatic that was responsive and smooth shifting. But the Tundra has a six speed, and six speeds are better than five. The Tundra seemed to accelerate better at all speeds. Also, the Tundra is rated to tow about 2000 lbs more than the Ram, and the higher tow rating indicates the Tundra’s transmission is 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.

The Tundra's frame isn't as good as the Ram - at least on paper. I think both trucks are probably strong, but the Tundra uses a combination of fully boxed and c-channel steel for its frame whereas the Ram has a fully boxed frame from head to toe. Toyota has a history of making a great vehicle, but I think going with a fully boxed frame would have been a better decision.

As far as the trucks cabs are concerned, the Tundra has more comfortable seats, it's nicer, the interior is more modern than the ram and has more features, and the Toyota interior is made of better quality materials. The Tundra design is about 5 years newer than the Ram's design, and it shows when you sit in the trucks.

The Ram is a nice truck. It handles as well as the Tundra, has a higher government safety rating, and I think it's a little better looking than the Tundra too. But when you look at the big picture, the Tundra comes out on top becuase it's more powerful and more modern. When Dodge brings out a new Ram in 2009 it will be an interesting re-match.

Article Source: http://www.christiannotepad.com

About the author: Jason Lancaster has worked in the car industry for almost 10 years. He runs a Toyota Tundra website, www.tundraheadquarters.com, as well as the Lowell Toyota website.
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