New Toyota Tundra versus Dodge Ram

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New Toyota Tundra versus Dodge Ram - By: Jason Lancaster, Posted on: 2007-04-30

I've driven both the Toyota Tundra and the Dodge Ram and compared not only the features of the trucks but also the specs and my impressions of both trucks. While I didn't compare every aspect, I have highlighted what I believe are the key differences between the trucks. I encourage anyone thinking about buying either truck to drive both of them and to read as many reviews as you can before making a decision.

This comparison pitted a 2007 Toyota Tundra DoubleCab SR5 4x4 with a iForce 5.7L V8 to a 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 QuadCab SLT 4x4 with a 5.7L HEMI. Both of these trucks are behemouths, but both of them are also quite fast. In fact, I can't imagine anyone being dissapointed with either truck. But, there are some important differences between the two.

The engines of these trucks are both powerful -- 381hp for the Toyota, 345hp for the Dodge, and both of these engines have excellent acceleration. However the HEMI uses a less sophisticated pushrod engine design compared to the iForce's DOHC design. Toyota's engine uses more technology to control combustion, and the result is quite a bit more power than the HEMI as well as better efficiency. I noticed the Tundra's fuel economy was about 2mpg better than the Ram during my test, and I'm sure this is due to Tundra's superior engine technology. Considering the Toyota is much more powerful, this is a major advantage to buying the Tundra.

The Dodge I tested came with a five speed automatic that was responsive and smooth shifting. But the Tundra has a six speed, and six speeds are better than five. The Tundra seemed to accelerate better at all speeds. Also, the Tundra is rated to tow about 2000 lbs more than the Ram, and the higher tow rating indicates the Tundra’s transmission is stronger.

Both trucks accelerate very well, and, surprisingly, they stop about the same (60mph to 0 in about 130 feet). Even though the Toyota has better brake components than the Ram - Toyota's larger front rotors, ventilated discs front AND rear, and standard 4-wheel ABS - both trucks stopped equally well. I suspect that while towing or hauling Toyota's better components will make a difference, but I was unable to confirm that during my test.

I think that Toyota dropped the ball when it comes to frame design -- while most trucks in the segment feature fully-boxed frames head to toe (including the Ram), the Tundra has a boxed section up front with the remainder of the frame being open c-channel. While only time will tell if the Tundra's frame is as strong as the Ram, Toyota would have been more comparable to the Ram if they had chosen a full length boxed frame.

The interiors of the Ram and the Tundra are completely different. The Tundra is nicer and more comfortable than the Ram, with more features and better quality materials. The Ram is an older truck (design-wise) than the Toyota, so the Toyota's superior interior is to be expected.

The Ram is a nice truck. It handles as well as the Tundra, has a higher government safety rating, and I think it's a little better looking than the Tundra too. But when you look at the big picture, the Tundra comes out on top becuase it's more powerful and more modern. When Dodge brings out a new Ram in 2009 it will be an interesting re-match.

Article Source: http://higradesearch.com

Author Jason Lancaster has been working in the car industry for almost 10 years. He runs a Toyota Tundra website, www.tundraheadquarters.com, as well as the Rockford Toyota website.
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