Which half-ton truck to buy? Should it be the new 2019 Ram 1500 or a 2018 Toyota Tundra? We recently received this question at ask@tfltruck.com from Moe.
which one would you buy – a 2018 Tundra or a 2019 Ram 1500? I know these are very different trucks, eSpecially with the Ram being a brand new model. I just want something that it’s gonna last, and be reliable.
Indeed, these two trucks are very different. It’s more of a question between: should I buy a first year of a brand-new generation truck, or one of the last years of a current generation.
Toyota Tundra
The 2018 Toyota Tundra is mostly the same truck is has been since the 2014 model year, which in turn is a continuation of the Tundra from 2007. The truck has a good reliability record, and it has been around for many years. A truck like this will tend to have fewer problems, than a truck has been completely redesigned. On the other hand, the older truck design such as the Tundra is not as efficient. The 5.7L V8 Tundra is at the bottom of the fuel efficiency ranking among the current half-ton trucks. A truck like the Tundra will also have a higher resale value as proven by data over several years.
Ram 1500
If you like newer design, and higher efficiency – then a truck such as the 2019 Ram 1500 fits the bill. We cannot talk about reliability of such a new truck at this time, because it has only been on sale for several months. The truck has the latest frame design, new suspension geometry, updated transmission, and an option for mild-hybrid power that boosts fuel economy.
Personally, I tend to go for newer technology.
If you have a comment or a suggestion for Moe – please add it to the comments section below.
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