Chevy Silverado 1500 vs. Ram 1500: Compare Full-Size Trucks in Colorado Springs
Modern full-size pickup trucks need to handle demanding work while remaining comfortable enough for daily driving. Both the Chevy Silverado 1500 and the Ram 1500 are established options in this segment, but differences in powertrain availability, towing capability, and bed functionality give the Silverado 1500 a clear edge. New-truck shoppers from Pueblo to Castle Rock can find the latest Chevy pickups for sale or lease here at Daniels Long Chevrolet. Here's a quick look at how the Silverado 1500 surpasses the Ram 1500 in a few key areas.
Engine Options
One of the Silverado 1500's defining strengths is the depth of its engine lineup. The standard 2.7-liter TurboMax engine (310 horsepower, 430 pound-feet of torque) delivers strong low-end torque for an impressive value. Buyers who prefer traditional eight-cylinder performance have multiple options, including a 5.3-liter V8 (355 horsepower, 383 pound-feet of torque) and a 6.2-liter V8 (420 horsepower, 460 pound-feet of torque). Chevy also continues to offer the 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel (305 horsepower, 495 pound-feet of torque), which stands out for its combination of high torque and strong efficiency during long-distance driving.
The Ram 1500 lineup starts with a 3.6-liter V6 with far less standard torque (271 pound-feet) and offers an available twin-turbo inline-six in two performance levels. Ram did reintroduce its 5.7-liter V8 (395 horsepower, 410 pound-feet of torque) for the 2026 model year, but it's a significant upcharge on most trims. Also, the Ram 1500 lineup does not include a diesel option.
Towing and Trailering Technology
When properly equipped, the Silverado 1500 can tow up to 13,300 pounds, placing it among the highest-rated light-duty trucks in the segment. However, beyond raw numbers, Chevy provides an array of technologies to support and simplify the towing experience, including an Advanced Trailering System with trailer profiles, light checks, and pre-departure checklists. It also offers an extensive camera system with numerous unique perspectives, including a transparent trailer view.
The Ram 1500 max trailer rating falls well short of the Silverado 1500 at just 11,610 pounds. Additionally, while it has useful towing features, it does not provide the same level of camera coverage or trailer-specific technology that Chevy offers. Ram trucks also rely on an eight-speed automatic, compared to the Silverado 1500, which boasts a more refined and responsive 10-speed transmission.
Bed Utility
The Silverado 1500 uses a high-strength steel Durabed cargo box designed for repeated loading and unloading. It includes 12 fixed tie-down points and a CornerStep rear bumper for easier access. It also offers an available Multi-Flex Tailgate with six configurations, including multiple load stops and a convenient work surface. The Ram 1500 has an optional split tailgate that improves cargo access. However, it can't match the Silverado for overall usability.
Off-Road Capability
Chevrolet offers several off-road-oriented Silverado trims for Peyton drivers who like to venture beyond the asphalt. Trail Boss models add a two-speed transfer case, an auto-locking rear differential, skid plates, all-terrain tires, and Z71 off-road suspension tuning. The ZR2 takes that capability to another level with attributes like Multimatic DSSV dampers, front and rear electronic locking differentials, 33-inch mud-terrain tires, and more. Ram offers off-road-focused trims such as the Warlock and Rebel that, while capable, don't match the extensive trail-focused equipment found in the ZR2.
Test-Drive a New Chevy Silverado 1500 near Fountain and Falcon, CO
Get in touch with Daniels Long Chevrolet today to learn more about the Chevy Silverado 1500, including its configuration options, financing and leasing offers, and available reservation opportunities. If you'd like a closer look at the accommodations, features, and performance, we welcome you to visit our Colorado Springs Chevy dealership for a test drive. We'll be happy to show you around.
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Daniels Long Chevrolet
670 Automotive Dr
Colorado Springs, CO 80905
- Sales: (719) 387-1081