Jun 6, 2024

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500 are two of the most anticipated full-size pickup trucks for the 2024 model year. Both have a strong reputation for their impressive capabilities, durability, and versatility in meeting the needs of a wide range of truck buyers, from hard-working contractors to weekend warriors. Here, we compare the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs. 2024 Ram 1500 so you can determine which of the two trucks is better for you.

Exterior Comparison

2024 Chevy Silverado ZR2 pickup truck driving
Image courtesy of Chevrolet

Regarding exterior design, the 2024 Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500 make bold statements but have their own distinct styling. The Silverado showcases Chevy’s latest design language with a large, imposing grille, chiseled bodywork, and sleek LED lighting. Multiple grille designs are available across the trim range to customize the look. Wheel options range from 17 to 22 inches.  

The Ram 1500 also boasts an aggressive front end with a prominent grille, sculpted hood, and available LED lighting. However, it offers more chrome trim than the Silverado for a flashier look. 

Both trucks have rugged, muscular proportions with high ground clearance and short overhangs for off-road clearance. The Ram is slightly longer, wider, and taller than the Silverado. 

Interior Comparison

The Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500 cabins reveal two distinct approaches to truck interior design. The Silverado’s interior is functional and well-organized, with a straightforward layout and easy-to-use controls. Higher trims such as the LTZ and High Country add more premium materials and advanced tech. The top-of-the-line High Country rivals luxury SUVs with perforated leather seating, open-pore wood trim, and a large 13.4-inch infotainment touch screen.  

The Ram 1500 is a step above in terms of overall interior refinement, with higher-quality materials and a more premium look and feel. Its available 12-inch vertical touch screen is a showstopper, while the reclining rear seats offer best-in-class comfort. 

Both trucks provide spacious crew cab configurations with ample passenger space. However, the Silverado offers more generous legroom in both rows of seats, providing optimal comfort and relaxation during long journeys. It also comes with more storage cubbies and a larger center console. Choosing between the two interiors depends on whether you prioritize a more functional or luxurious cabin.

Power Comparison

Performance is paramount for full-size trucks, and the Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500 are two of the most capable models in the segment. The Silverado offers a wider range of engine options, starting with a fuel-efficient 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. The popular 5.3-liter V-8 produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, while the mighty 6.2-liter V-8 cranks out 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. There’s also a 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel with 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque.  

The Ram 1500 comes standard with a 3.6-liter V-6 with 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. There’s also an optional 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 rated at 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. The Ram’s available eTorque mild-hybrid system adds short-term torque boosts.  

When properly equipped, the Silverado has a towing capacity of 13,300 pounds and a payload rating of 2,260 pounds. The Ram maxes out at 12,750 pounds towing and 2,300 pounds payload. Both are powerful trucks, but the Silverado has a bit more grunt and towing capacity.

Fuel Efficiency Comparison

Fuel efficiency is increasingly important for truck buyers, and the Silverado 1500 and RAM 1500 offer several engine options to balance power and efficiency. The Silverado’s 2.7-liter turbo-four delivers an EPA-estimated rating of 18/22 mpg (city/highway) in rear-wheel-drive configuration. The 5.3-liter V-8 provides 16/22 mpg, while the 6.2-liter V-8 gets 14/17 mpg. The 3.0-liter Duramax diesel is the efficiency champ at 23/29 mpg. In contrast, the RAM 1500’s 3.6-liter V-6 with eTorque achieves up to 20/26 mpg, while the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 gets 18/23 mpg.  

Price Comparison

The Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500 offer various trims and configurations to fit different budgets. The Silverado truck starts at $36,800 for the entry-level Work Truck trim and $62,700 for the well-appointed High Country. The off-road-focused ZR2 has a base MSRP of $69,900, making it the most expensive model in the lineup.

The Ram 1500’s base Tradesman model starts at $39,420. Opting for the top-spec TRX will cost you $96,585 or more.

Safety Features Comparison

The Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500 have a full suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies to provide peace of mind on the road. The Silverado comes standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which includes automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, front pedestrian braking, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Available features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, adaptive cruise control, a safety alert seat, and an HD surround vision camera.  

The Ram 1500 comes standard with only a rearview camera. However, it offers plenty of optional safety features, such as forward-collision warning with active braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, and rear park assist.  

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave both trucks a five-star overall crash safety rating, the highest possible score.  

Overall, the Chevrolet truck offers better value in this Ram 1500 vs. Silverado 1500 comparison. Despite its lower price, it comes out on top in terms of power, towing capacity, passenger space, infotainment, and safety features.  

Experience the Silverado 1500 at Monument Chevrolet

If you’re thinking of buying the new Chevrolet Silverado in Pasadena, Texas, you can experience it first-hand at our Monument Chevrolet dealership. With one of the most expansive new Chevy vehicles in the Pasadena area, we can provide you with your ideal Silverado model or Chevy commercial truck. Our friendly and knowledgeable sales team will walk you through all the available trims, options, and features to help you configure the perfect truck for your needs and lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a test drive.