RAM 3500 vs RAM 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.
Price Breakdown
The RAM 3500 starts from $177,950 before on-road costs, while the RAM 1500 opens at $119,950. That makes the RAM 1500 the more affordable entry point by $58,000.
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 $131,945 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, while the RAM 1500 gets a 8.4-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The RAM 1500 counters with heated front seats 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 1152Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.1 seconds.
The RAM 1500 responds with a Petrol V8 making 291kW and 556Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds.
The RAM 3500 has the clear power advantage at 313kW vs 291kW. In the real-world sprint, the RAM 1500 is 1.6s quicker. 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, 150mm longer than the RAM 1500 at 5,916mm (3,672mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the RAM 3500 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 900L in the RAM 3500 and 900L in the RAM 1500.
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.
14.4m 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 14.4m 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 $3,648/year for the RAM 3500 and $3,734/year for the RAM 1500. That is a $86 annual difference in favour of the RAM 3500.
Estimated annual total: $3,648 (RAM 3500) vs $3,734 (RAM 1500). The RAM 3500 saves you roughly $86 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 3 years / 100,000km (RAM 1500). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the RAM 3500 if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, need stronger towing, or prefer RAM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the RAM 1500 if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer RAM's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The RAM 3500 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The RAM 3500 will save you roughly $86 a year in fuel. 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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