RAM 1500 vs BMW M3
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 M3 opens at $163,700. That makes the RAM 1500 the more affordable entry point by $43,750.
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 $180,070 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BMW M3 by roughly $4,275 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
The BMW M3 holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 3 stars for the RAM 1500.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The BMW M3 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. Airbag count is 6 in the RAM 1500 and 6 in the BMW M3.
Feature Showdown
The RAM 1500 features a 8.4-inch touchscreen, while the BMW M3 gets a 12.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW M3 counters with head-up display, panoramic roof, ventilated seats, Harman Kardon audio and ambient lighting that the RAM 1500 does not offer. 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 M3 responds with a Petrol making 353kW and 550Nm, paired to a manual driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 3.5 seconds.
The BMW M3 has the clear power advantage at 353kW vs 291kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW M3 is 4.0s 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, 1207mm longer than the BMW M3 at 4,709mm (2,851mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the RAM 1500 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 900L in the RAM 1500 and 480L in the BMW M3, giving the RAM 1500 a 420L advantage.
For towing, the RAM 1500 leads with a 4,500kg braked capacity vs 1,800kg. That 2,700kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 14.4m
Based on 14.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.0m 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 $2,879/year for the BMW M3. That is a $855 annual difference in favour of the BMW M3.
Estimated annual total: $3,734 (RAM 1500) vs $2,879 (BMW M3). The BMW M3 saves you roughly $855 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 M3). The BMW M3 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the RAM 1500 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer RAM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW M3 if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW M3 takes 5 of 8 key spec categories. The BMW M3 will save you roughly $855 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the RAM 1500 has a clear edge. The BMW M3 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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