Let’s face it: If you’re buying a truck, you’re probably looking for some muscle—something you’ll find plenty of in the 2021 Ram 1500 and the Toyota Tundra. However, which one can offer Penn Yan, Geneva, and Watkins Glen, NY, drivers more?
In this comparison, our team at Friendly Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram is going to break down these trucks’ power, towing, safety, and interior. Read on to keep on truckin’.

When it comes to a vehicle of this class, a commanding engine is a must. In this respect, neither the 2021 Ram 1500 nor the Toyota Tundra hold back. Both trucks have 5.7L V8 motor options with the Ram 1500 outputting 395 horsepower, while the Tundra achieves 381 horsepower.
Additionally, the Ram 1500 has a 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine with eTorque and an available 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine—perfect for long stretches behind the wheel with minimal gas station interruptions. On the other hand, the Tundra only has one powertrain, so you won’t have a choice of different power blends and towing capabilities.
The Toyota Tundra’s single powertrain spans six trim levels. The Ram 1500, however, sports eight trim levels and five engine configurations, all ranging in power and efficiency. So, if you want more power and trim options, the Ram 1500 is prepared for you to take the helm.

With such massive engines under their hoods, it’s no wonder these trucks have so much towing power. The Ram 1500’s engine options can provide the following towing capacities:
|
Engine Option |
Maximum Towing Capacity |
|
3.6L Pentastar® V6 with eTorque |
7,730 pounds |
|
6.2L Supercharged HEMI® V8 |
8,100 pounds |
|
5.7L HEMI® V8 |
11,610 pounds |
|
3.0L EcoDiesel V6 |
12,560 pounds |
|
5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque |
12,750 pounds |
Thanks to the Ram’s diesel motor and its V8 engine with available eTorque, you can haul these items:
You may have to leave some heavier toys behind with the Toyota Tundra since it can only tow up to 10,200 pounds when properly equipped. So, if you need to haul a large boat or camper to accommodate multiple people on your next camping trip, the Ram 1500 is ideal.

Are you in it for the long haul? Well, the 2021 Ram 1500 and Toyota Tundra sure are. Both trucks boast impressive fuel economies. The Ram supports a 20 city/25 highway MPG on its base trim, while the Toyota supplies a 13 city/18 highway MPG rating.
While the Ram’s core trim level’s MPG is impressive, it can boast an amazing 33 MPG highway rating when equipped with the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine. If you have a long stretch of open road ahead of you on the way to the campground, the Ram 1500 can provide more miles before needing a pitstop compared to the Tundra.

Do you have some fishing gear you need to carry in your truck bed? If so, the 2021 Ram 1500 and Toyota Tundra offer lengthy beds with impressive payloads. The Ram offers a maximum 2,320-pound payload, while the Toyota provides a capped 1,730-pound payload. If you need to haul more stuff, the Ram 1500 is the name of the game.
Additionally, the 2021 Ram 1500 equips an available multifunction tailgate with split, swing-away doors that open up 88 degrees. This innovative tailgate makes it easier for you to step up, load bulky items, and wash out your truck bed. The Tundra goes without this tailgate, which can make unloading large items trickier.

For all those dirty jobs, long hauls, and off-road adventures, you need a truck that’s got your back. Thankfully, the 2021 Ram 1500 and Toyota Tundra equip many standard and available safety features to keep your treks and travels safe. Alongside a slew of passive safety measures, they share these features:
If you’re looking for added security, the Ram 1500 offers these safety features:
The Toyota Tundra goes without these additional features, and so provides fewer assistive aids while trailering or driving around town.
No matter which you choose, your truck’s bound to come with a lot of practical features. Nevertheless, comfort should be integral as well. The 2021 Ram 1500 and the Toyota Tundra both host roomy interiors with ample wiggle room for passengers.
|
|
2021 Ram 1500 |
2021 Toyota Tundra |
|
Headroom (front/rear) |
40.9/39.2 inches |
39.7/38.7 inches |
|
Legroom (front/rear) |
40.9/35.6 inches |
42.5/34.7 inches |
|
Hip room (front/rear) |
63.4/63.4 inches |
62.6/62.6 inches |
|
Shoulder room (front/rear) |
66/65.7 inches |
65.7/65.6 inches |
The Tundra offers a 7-inch entertainment suite and is geared toward comfort.. Cloth interior comes standard—ideal if you intend to only lightly use your truck. But when you’re out in the elements, you need something a little tougher.
The Ram 1500 is built for a working man or woman. It’s got ample entertainment in the available 12-inch Uconnect® 12 touchscreen for greater usability on the fast-paced highway. This truck also features a few interior amenities to make each workday easier than the last:
While both the Ram and Toyota feature available leather seats, the Ram 1500 offers vinyl seating that makes cleaning up the aftermath of a dirty job simpler. With this fabric option and the other cargo compartments in mind, the 2021 Ram 1500 may be your ideal work vehicle.
Do you live in the rugged and beautiful Penn Yan, Geneva, or Watkins Glen, New York, area? Are you looking for a truck more than capable of being your work companion or travel partner? It’s no secret that the 2021 Ram 1500 and Toyota Tundra are great contenders for this role.
However, thanks to its powerful and efficient performance, safety, and cargo capabilities, our team at Friendly DCJR believes the Ram 1500 is the truck built for your lifestyle. Stop by our dealer or schedule a test drive online!