Northern Prairie Auto Sales

Oct 1, 2021
2021 RAM 1500

Ram trucks are sturdy, reliable, and rugged. They’re spread across the 1500, 2500, and 3500 models, so named based on how much they can tow. While the 1500 model is considered a light-duty truck, the 2500 and 3500 models are heavy-duty trucks with more powerful capabilities. Here’s a detailed look at the differences in the lineup and how to decide which Ram truck you need.  

Towing Capacity 

The 2021 Ram 1500 truck can tow up to 12,750 pounds with its HEMI V-8 engine. There’s a Classic model, also available for the 2021 model year, which can tow a maximum of 10,610 pounds. Likewise, Ram released a 1500 TRX, which currently enjoys a spot as one of the most powerful pickups ever made. However, it only tows a maximum of 8,100 pounds.  

If you need to move heavier machinery or vehicles, the 2500 and 3500 trucks have some serious hauling power. The 2021 Ram 2500 can tow up to 20,000 pounds, thanks to its 6.7-liter turbo-diesel engine. The 3500 sports the same engine, but cranks hauling capacity up to a whopping 37,100 pounds.  

Body and Cab Styles 

The Ram 1500 truck comes in two cab styles: the crew cab and the quad cab, which is a type of crew cab with less legroom in the rear of the cabin. The crew cab is available with a 6-foot-4-inch bed or a 5-foot-7-inch bed; the quad cab only comes with the standard bed length.  

The heavy-duty RAM trucks are available in three cab styles: the two-door regular cab, the four-door crew cab, and the extra-large Mega cab. If you’ll be moving a lot of cargo, go for the long 8-foot bed. Otherwise, stick with You can the standard 6-foot-4-inch bed. 

Trim Levels 

Typically, the 1500 trucks come in seven trim levels: Tradesman, Big Horn, Rebel, Laramie, Longhorn, TRX, and Limited. While the Big Horn improves on some of the base Tradesman’s amenities, the Rebel adds off-roading elements into the mix. The TRX is a new exclusive off-roading trim. The Laramie steps up the luxury, while Longhorn gets a reshaped exterior.  

In the Ram 2500, seven trims are also available. The major difference is in its off-roading trim, which gets a new name — Power Wagon. The 3500 reduces the focus on off-roading, with only five trims on the lineup. 

Engine Options 

Exclusive to the Ram 1500 TRX is the most powerful engine on any Ram truck: a 6.2-liter V-8 that makes 702 horsepower. Depending on which of the other trims you select, you’ll get one of the following: a 3.6-liter V-6 that makes 305 horsepower, a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 rated at 395 horsepower, or a 3.0-liter 260-horsepower turbo-diesel engine. Most 1500s come with rear-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive is an option. 

The 2500 Power Wagon comes with a standard 6.7-liter turbo-diesel engine that makes 370 horsepower. Other trims are powered by a 6.4-liter V-8 that produces 410 horsepower. The 3500 features these two engines plus a 420-horsepower version of the diesel engine. 

These Ram trucks are unique and capable, and now that you know what makes them different, you can decide which one you need. Head to Northern Prairie Auto Sales to schedule a test drive and get ready for an adventure in a Ram truck.