Dodge RAM 4500 vs 5500- Which One To Buy?

Being added to the list of powerful Dodge RAM a few years back, the 4500 and 5500 models are one of the best of the series. Whenever anyone thinks about towing trucks the first idea is about these two Dodge Rams. But just like me, you might also be confused about which of these two is worth buying according to your requirements.

Ram 4500 and RAM 5500 have common features like 270 degrees surround-view camera, trailer reverse guidance, and tire pressure monitoring. Looking at the RAM 5500, you will witness a Towing capacity of up to 35,000 pounds, which is enough to pull an weight you want, including heavy trucks.

Dodge RAM 4500 and Dodge RAM 4500 are like two siblings born from the same parents with a few different features but almost the same performance.

Excited to know the quantified and factual difference between both trucks with graphs and values? There’s nothing to worry about because I will tell you everything about Dodge RAM 4500 vs 5500. Keep on reading!

Major Differences Between Dodge RAM 4500 vs 5500

RAM 4500 and RAM specs gives a better understanding of the comparison between the two trucks. Before you purchase one from them, you must look at the specification comparison table because it will be helpful for you to clearly understand the difference in the particular specifications of both trucks.

RAM 4500 and 5500 are available in four different settings, including the Tradesman SLT, Laramie, and Limited. As your choose any one of them, there will be a slight difference in the price and other features for both trucks.

To give you an approximate difference between both, I have designed the table based on the overall values and differences between the specifications of RAM 4500 and 5500.

The values in the table below may differ depending on the settings you select, so don’t get confused if you see slightly different figures on the internet.

Specifications Comparison Between RAM 4500 And RAM 5500

So we can see, most of the specifications in RAM 4500 and RAM 5500 are almost similar. Then why pay more for RAM 5500? And what’s the purpose of even talking about the comparison? Move to the next heading to get the answer.

Towing Capacity of Ram 4500 vs 5500

The main difference between RAM trucks is their towing capacity and payload since RAM trucks are known for towing. The rest of the specifications usually remain similar so if you think about why will you pay more dollars for ram 5500 then have a look at the table below.

Force Comparison Between Ram 4500 And 5500

The difference between the towing capacity of RAM 4500 and 5500 is clear from this table. There is no question now why the company manufactured two different models when the specifications between them are similar.

The towing capacity of RAM 4500 is lesser than the RAM 5500 so if you are looking for a moderate towing capacity truck, then RAM 4500 will work for you. Well, if you want a heavy-duty towing truck,, go with the RAM 5500w.

Common Features In Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500

Being towing trucks of the same company, RAM 4500 and 5500 have some common features, which are the specialty of the RAM company.

They have incorporated high-class features in all of their trucks to make them perfect for towing because they know towing is not just a digit that comes with a single part of the truck. Towing is an overall capacity of pulling weight, supported by an engine, steel frame, and even a 360-degree camera.

Let’s focus on the same features you’ll get whether you buy the RAM 4500 or RAM 5500.

01: Diesel 16 Engine

RAM 4500 and 5500 come with the reliable 6.4L turbo diesel 16 engine that is amazingly lightweight to give the high efficiency of work without increasing the weight of the vehicle. You get both trucks with a high towing and hauling capacity.

The engine has an automatic transmission with 6 levels for optimization and controlled towing during work. So fair control also gives seamless shifting capabilities.

02. 360-Degree Surround View Camera

Big vehicles create many problems while reversing or turning because of the size of the vehicle. That’s why Dodge RAM is equipped with a 360° surround view camera. Now there will be a clear view of the vehicle’s surroundings on your screen.

03. Tire Pressure Monitoring

Driving a heavy vehicle puts a lot of strain on the tires. This requires a particular tire pressure, or else the driver could face difficulty in driving; in fact, there is a threat of major accidents. So RAM 4500 and 5500 have a tire pressure monitoring system that keeps on telling the pressure in the tires. This helps with fast, efficient, and safe towing.

04. Active Air Grille Shutters

Overheating is not a problem for Dodge RAM 4500 and 5500 because of the Active Air Grille Shutters. They are specially designed to control the heat produced as a result of heavy towing.

The truck immediately controls the speed and load, providing enough cooling to the engine. This way, the engine can work faster and more efficiently as it doesn’t have to deal with the heating.

05. Steel Foundation

A towing truck is useless without a strong steel foundation. That’s why you’ll find the powerful steel foundation in RAM 4500 and 5500. The foundation is strong enough to bear thousands of pounds of weight. Steel foundation helps RAM trucks perform critical tasks efficiently without damaging the truck’s structure.

Customizing Features Available For Ram 4500 and 5500

One of the best things you can have in Dodge RAM 4500 and 5500 is the company’s customization options. You can pick from the turbo diesel engine and gear packages to enhance GVWR ratings and upfit. There are three packages for both Dodge Ram trucks:

• Safety Group: better cruise control, assistance with lane keeping, automatic dimming mirror, and trailer brake.
• Luxury Group: front power outlet, adjustable power pedals
• Towing Technology Group: 360-degree camera, reverse lamps with mirrors, trailer reverse guidance

Ram 4500 and 5500 Problems (Comparison Table)

No doubt RAM 4500 and 5500 have the best features of the time, making them one of the top towing trucks. However, even the best things have some flaws; just like that, these two trucks have some common problems while functioning.

While testing, I felt that the degree of the problem may be more or less in RAM 4500 and 5500, but they both have common problems. Below is the table comparing the common problems between RAM 4500. This will help you understand what problems you will have to face after purchasing RAM 5500 and 4500.

Which One Is Worth Buying?

The answer to the question is simple: the one that fits your needs. The comparison between RAM 4500 and 5500 shows a huge towing capacity difference of almost 5000 pounds. With RAM 5500, you can carry heavier weights with an 11,450 pounds payload, while RAM 4500 offers an 8,520 pounds payload. A huge difference, right?

So if you need a towing truck to carry your RV then RAM 4500 would be enough for your needs. But if you want to tow extremely heavy weights like on a work site, RAM 5500 is a better choice, providing more capacity to tow.

In this article, I have provided you with a detailed comparison between RAM 4500 vs. 5500. I will wait for your comments if this article helps you to decide which one is better for you.