In deciding whether to buy a diesel or gas engine Ram truck, shoppers generally weigh performance, cost, efficiency, and long-term use. Each has its positives and negatives, and the decision is ultimately a matter of how the truck will be used and what matters most. Either powertrain in a Ram truck will do the trick, but the distinction between diesel and gas engines often makes one more appropriate to the situation.
| Category | Diesel Ram Truck | Gas Ram Truck |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | Higher upfront cost | Lower upfront cost |
| Power | High torque at low RPM, ideal for towing | Higher horsepower, quicker acceleration |
| Towing/Hauling | Best for heavy loads and frequent towing | Good for light to moderate towing |
| Fuel Economy | Better efficiency on long highway drives | Lower efficiency but cheaper fuel per gallon |
| Daily Driving | Feels slower off the line, stronger under load | Responsive, lighter driving feel |
| Maintenance | More expensive repairs, requires DEF | Cheaper and easier to service |
| Durability | Built for long life, can exceed very high miles | Long-lasting, but not quite as robust as diesel |
| Fuel Availability | Diesel fuel slightly less common in some areas | Gasoline widely available everywhere |
| Noise & Vibration | Louder and more noticeable engine sound | Smoother and quieter overall |
| Resale Value | Higher resale due to demand and durability | Lower resale but smaller upfront investment |
| Best For | Heavy towing, long hauls, high mileage users | Everyday driving, lighter work, short trips |
Power and Performance
The most basic contrast between diesel and gas Ram trucks would be power delivery. Diesel engines are renowned for their massive torque output, which is specifically very beneficial for hauling and towing. A diesel Ram has robust pulling power at low RPMs, and heavy trailers become simple to haul with less stress on the engine. For those who trailer boats, campers, or equipment regularly, the diesel option provides for smoother and more aggressive performance.
Gas engines, by contrast, like to deliver more horsepower than diesel. This results in gas-powered Rams being faster in acceleration and more responsive for normal driving. If the individual uses their truck mostly as a daily driver, commutes, or likes quicker throttle response, the gas engine will be more lively and exciting on the road.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Diesel engines tend to be more fuel-efficient, especially on the highway. They burn fuel at a reduced rate and can achieve higher miles per gallon than gas engines of comparable size. For commuters who cover a lot of miles—especially highway miles—a diesel Ram can save money in fuel expenses in the long term.
Gas engines do hold the edge for drivers who drive shorter. Diesel fuel economy excels on long road trips, but in city traffic or stop-and-go conditions, the difference between diesel and gas fuel economy can close. Gasoline is generally cheaper at the pump, which equates to while a gas engine may be more expensive overall, per fill-up, it is usually cheaper.
Cost and Maintenance
The starting price of a diesel Ram is typically more than that of a gas-powered one. Diesel engines are more expensive to make and put in place, and that’s what’s charged to the truck. Buyers must consider whether the long-term savings and towing benefits make the higher initial expense worth it.
Maintenance is yet another consideration. Diesel engines will last longer and are designed to withstand the rigors of heavy use, making them more desirable in heavy-duty trucks. That said, when they do require repair, they can be more costly due to the nature of the engine and the price of diesel-only components. Routine maintenance in the form of fuel filter changes and diesel exhaust fluid refills also contributes to the cost of ownership.
Gas engines are generally less costly to fix and maintain. Parts are easily found, and technicians are more used to gas engines, so the job is quicker and more affordable. They may not make it quite as far as a properly maintained diesel, but many gas Rams will still give hundreds of thousands of miles of hassle-free service to most motorists.
Longevity and Resale Value
A diesel Ram truck typically holds a higher resale value. The popularity of diesel engines because of their long-standing reputation for durability and towing capacity makes it a sought-after vehicle in the used market. Individuals who plan to keep their truck for years and drive it extensively may find more value in owning diesel.
Gas Rams, although typically depreciate faster, still have strong demand, especially in half-ton trucks. Because the up-front cost is lower, depreciation doesn’t seem as extreme, and for those buyers who plan to upgrade after a few years, the gas engine could be more cost-effective.
Driving Experience
The driving experience with gas and diesel also vary. The diesel engines are quieter than previously but still have a distinctive noise. They are more sedate in their acceleration, with their power felt in towing circumstances rather than stoplight acceleration.
Diesel engines provide a more responsive, antiquated driving feel for most drivers. They provide quicker acceleration and help make the truck lighter on its feet, which can be a tremendous advantage for frequent use in suburb or city environments.
Who Should Choose Diesel?
A Ram truck equipped with diesel is ideal for clients who:
- Tow or haul heavy loads on a regular basis.
- Travel long miles, particularly on the highway.
- Require maximum fuel efficiency for extended hauling.
- Plan to keep the truck for a long period and value longevity.
- Appreciate greater resale value in the future.
Who Should Choose Gas?
A gas-powered Ram truck is better for those drivers who:
- Will be using their truck primarily for commuting or light-duty work.
- Drive shorter distances or mostly in the city.
- Enjoy a lower initial purchase price and lower maintenance.
- Want a more responsive and faster driving experience.
- Do not demand maximum towing capacity.
Final Thoughts
The choice between a diesel and gas Ram truck is based on use. Diesel is ideal for towing, long-distance fuel economy, and durability, which makes it ideal for heavy-duty use and repeated hauling. Gas engines are ideal for budget-friendliness, daily use, and lower maintenance, which makes them ideal for light-duty use and daily driving. Each powertrain does what it does well, and buyers who sit down and honestly evaluate their driving habits, budget, and long-term plans will find that one option suits better than the other by default.
