Ram 1500 vs. Chevy Silverado 1500: Which $30,000 Used Truck Is the Better Buy?
If you ask truck owners which full-size pickup is the most comfortable and reliable, the Ram 1500 might be their first choice. Plenty of dependable Chevy Silverado trucks at affordable prices are also on the used market. These 5-year-old pickups offer plenty of value for the price, so which is right for you? Here’s a side-by-side 2018 Ram 1500 vs. Chevy Silverado 1500 comparison to help you decide.
| 2018 Ram 1500 | 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 | |
| Average Used Price | $23,600–$47,200 | $25,900–$50,400 |
| Engine Types + Sizes | 3.6-liter V6, 3.0-liter V6 diesel, 5.7-liter V8 | 4.3-liter V6, 5.3-liter V8, 6.2-liter V8 |
| Horsepower + Torque | 305 hp and 269 lb-ft, 240 hp and 420 lb-ft, 395 hp and 410 lb-ft | 285 hp and 305 lb-ft, 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, 420 hp and 460 lb-ft |
| Transmission + Drivetrain | 8-speed automatic + RWD or optional 4WD | 6-speed automatic or optional 8-speed automatic + RWD or optional 4WD |
| 0–60 Acceleration + Top Speed | 6.4 seconds, 155 mph | 5.9 seconds, 155 mph |
| Fuel efficiency | 15–20 mpg city, 21–27 city highway | 15–18 mpg city, 19–24 mpg highway |
| Towing + Payload Capacity | 10,640 pounds + 1,880 pounds | 12,500 pounds + 2,250 pounds |
2018 Ram 1500 vs. 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500: Driving and performance
Both of these pickup trucks have earned praise for their pleasant ride qualities and precise steering. However, the 2018 Chevy Silverado is faster and more capable than the 2018 Ram 1500. Experts recommend getting the eight-speed automatic over the standard six-speed, which likely means you’ll have to pay extra. You’ll also have to spend more on a V8-equipped 2018 Silverado in the long term because it requires premium gasoline.
2018 Ram 1500 vs. 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500: Interior and tech
The 2018 Ram 1500 has a higher interior quality rating from U.S. News. Both base models included vinyl seating, but cloth or leather seats were available. The rear row offers generous legroom for passengers, and all seats provide ample support. Critics had no complaints about the Silverado 1500’s seat comfort or interior dimensions.
However, the 2018 Silverado’s base model boasts more technology than the standard Ram 1500. The Silverado WT (Work Truck) has a 7.0-in infotainment touchscreen with Bluetooth, while a used 2018 Ram 1500 Tradesman might not even have a center display. This model could be optioned with a 5.0-inch screen minus the touch controls, but at least Bluetooth was included.
However, you can’t gain access to smartphone integration on any Silverado trim from this model year. That feature is standard in almost every 2018 Ram 1500 trim, beginning with the Big Horn. Both trucks could be optioned with built-in navigation, but some 2018 Silverado models have an upgraded Bose sound system.
Meanwhile, the 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 High Country touts a safety package including forward-collision mitigation, lane-departure warning, and several other features. The 2018 Ram 1500’s only advanced safety features include automatic high beams, parking sensors, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
2018 Ram 1500 vs. 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500: Trim levels and features
Besides the Tradesman, the 2018 Ram 1500 offered 10 other trim levels. Many share the same features, albeit with differing exterior accents or interior trim. The Big Horn and Lone Star trims are available with comfort features like heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Harvest trim has upgraded ground clearance and rugged extras, while the Night and Sport models bring athletic exterior flair. And the Laramie and Limited trims feature leather seats.
The 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 came in eight trims. The most notable upgrades are present in the High Country and performance-oriented models. For instance, the Silverado 1500 Z71 has an off-roading suspension and standard 4WD. And the LTZ has leather seats and the maximum towing capacity with the V8 engine. Finally, the range-topping High Country’s seats are heated and ventilated.
Which used pickup truck is the right fit for you?
Critics generally prefer the 2018 Ram 1500 for its higher-quality interior. However, if you want more safety features and a higher tow rating, the 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 could be the better option. Both have high U.S. News ratings, so either would be worth your money.
Regardless of which used truck you choose, obtain a vehicle history report and have a trusted mechanic perform an inspection to uncover potential problems before purchasing. Also, prices may vary depending on trim level, mileage, overall condition, and location.
