RAM 3500 vs Chevrolet Silverado 1500
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Utes 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.
RAM 3500
From $177,950
Ute
Diesel
Diesel Turbo
313kW
12.8 L/100km
ANCAP: no data
900L
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
From $134,500
Ute
Petrol
6.2L EcoTec3 V8
313kW
12.1 L/100km
ANCAP: no data
1781L
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Price Breakdown
The RAM 3500 starts from $177,950 before on-road costs, while the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 opens at $134,500. That makes the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 the more affordable entry point by $43,450.
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 $195,745 and $147,950 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The RAM 3500 features a 12-inch touchscreen paired with a 7-inch digital dash, while the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 gets a 13.4-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 counters with head-up display, wireless charging, heated front seats, ventilated seats and Bose audio that the RAM 3500 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The RAM 3500 uses a Diesel Turbo producing 313kW and 1458Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.1 seconds.
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 responds with a 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 making 313kW and 624Nm, paired to a 10-speed automatic driving the rear wheels.
Power output is identical on paper, so the difference comes down to tuning, weight distribution, and suspension. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The RAM 3500 measures 6,066mm long on a 3,785mm wheelbase, 135mm longer than the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 at 5,931mm.
Boot space is 900L in the RAM 3500 and 1781L in the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, giving the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 a 881L advantage.
For towing, the RAM 3500 leads with a 8,000kg braked capacity vs 4,500kg. That 3,500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
14.3m 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 14.3m 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 $3,648/year for the RAM 3500 and $3,449/year for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. That is a $199 annual difference in favour of the Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
Estimated annual total: $3,648 (RAM 3500) vs $3,449 (Chevrolet Silverado 1500). The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 saves you roughly $199 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 3 years / 100,000km (RAM 3500) vs 5 years (Chevrolet Silverado 1500). The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the RAM 3500 if: You need stronger towing, or prefer RAM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer Chevrolet's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 takes 4 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 will save you roughly $199 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has a clear edge. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, RAM 3500 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500?
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is the cheapest at $134,500 before on-road costs. That undercuts the RAM 3500 by $43,450.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 uses the least fuel at 12.1L/100km on the combined cycle.
What are the ANCAP safety ratings?
None of RAM 3500 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 carry a published ANCAP rating yet — check back as they are tested.
Which has the most boot space?
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has the largest boot at 1781L.
Which can tow the most?
The RAM 3500 has the highest braked towing capacity at 8,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has the longest warranty at 5 years / Unlimited.
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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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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