RAM 1500 vs BMW M2
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The RAM 1500 starts from $119,950 before on-road costs, while the BMW M2 opens at $109,900. That makes the BMW M2 the more affordable entry point by $10,050.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $131,945 and $120,890 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BMW M2 by roughly $4,560 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
The BMW M2 holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 3 stars for the RAM 1500.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The BMW M2 packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the RAM 1500.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The RAM 1500 stands out with power tailgate that you will not find on the BMW M2. The BMW M2 counters with head-up display and Harman Kardon audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The RAM 1500 uses a Petrol V8 producing 291kW and 556Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.5 seconds.
The BMW M2 responds with a Petrol making 338kW and 550Nm, paired to a 8-speed auto driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 4.1 seconds.
The BMW M2 has the clear power advantage at 338kW vs 291kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW M2 is 3.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The RAM 1500 measures 5,916mm long on a 3,672mm wheelbase, 1336mm longer than the BMW M2 at 4,580mm (2,747mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the RAM 1500 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 900L in the RAM 1500 and 390L in the BMW M2, giving the RAM 1500 a 510L advantage. The RAM 1500 seats 5 vs 4.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
14.4m diameter
Large
Based on 14.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $3,734/year for the RAM 1500 and $2,822/year for the BMW M2. That is a $912 annual difference in favour of the BMW M2.
Estimated annual total: $3,734 (RAM 1500) vs $2,822 (BMW M2). The BMW M2 saves you roughly $912 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 3 years / 100,000km (RAM 1500) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW M2). The BMW M2 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the RAM 1500 if: You need more boot space, or prefer RAM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW M2 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW M2 takes 6 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The BMW M2 will save you roughly $912 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the RAM 1500 has a clear edge. The BMW M2 adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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