If you are in the market for a light-duty pickup truck, you should take a look at the differences between the 2020 Ram 1500 vs 2019 Ram 1500 Classic. The two are great for comparison because they are both well-rounded work trucks that can accomplish the hard tasks you need to be done.
The difference between these two models is mostly cosmetic. The 2020 Ram 1500, is part of the latest generation of the Ram 1500. Ram decided to keep the previous generation of the Ram 1500 going by introducing the Ram 1500 Classic so that fans of the previous generation still had access to a truck they love with smaller, updated features. 2020 Ram 1500 Classic models are currently available as well, but since they dropped a trim with the 2020 model, we will look at the 2019 model instead.
The 2020 Ram 1500 is available in two 4-door body styles known as the Quad Cab and Crew Cab. They vary with seating capacity. The Quad Cab seats five people, and the Crew Cab can hold six. The Quad Cab is only available with the short bed measuring 5-feet-7-inches. On the other hand, the Crew Cab gives you a choice between the short box or the standard box measured at 6-feet-4-inches. On the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic, the Quad Cab and Crew Cab options remain the same. However, this model is also available with a regular two-door body style that can seat three people. This truck design can be equipped with the standard bed or the extended 8-foot bed.
Now that you’ve got an idea about what these two trucks look like let’s dive deeper into the differences between them.
Powertrains and Performance
The first question most people have when comparing trucks usually has something to do with the capabilities. How much can it haul? What’s the gas mileage? These are commonly asked questions, and they can make or break a deal.
The “new” 2020 Ram 1500 is available with four powertrain systems. First, there is a 3.6L V6 engine mated with the innovative eTorque Mild Hybrid System. Replacing the alternator with a 48-volt battery, this powertrain allows the truck to generate 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. It has an excellent fuel economy estimated at 21 mpg combined (19 city/24 highway), and it can haul up to 7,730 lbs.
For more power, the next option is a 5.7L HEMI V8 that produces 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. This engine can pull up to 11,620 lbs. While this lowers the fuel efficiency a bit, it still gets 18 mpg combined (15 city/21 highway). That’s not too bad for such a beast!
The third choice is a turbodiesel 3.0L V6 motor that makes 260 hp and a staggering 480 lb-ft of torque. It’s towing capacity is even more impressive at 12,560 lbs. Finally, that 5.7L HEMI V8 engine we mentioned before can also come paired with the aforementioned eTorque Mild Hybrid System. Together, they can tow 12,750 lbs. This combination also boosts the fuel efficiency of up to 20 mpg (12 city/23 highway). You should also note that the 2020 “new” Ram 1500 models come with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and RWD (4WD is optional).
As for the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic, the powertrain options are all the same with only one difference. The eTorque Mild Hybrid System is not an option. So, if you want a higher towing capacity and slightly better gas mileage, the 2020 Ram 1500 is the way to go. If that doesn’t matter to you, then you will be more than happy with the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic.
Trims and Interior Features of the 2020 “New” Ram 1500
Interior features vary depending on the trim level. The 2020 Ram 1500 is available in six different trims. Each one is designed to suit various needs. For example, the base Tradesman was built for people who need a competent work truck. Vinyl upholstery and rubber flooring make it easy to clean out the cabin, and there are several storage compartments for stashing away valuables. Three 12-volt outlets are located throughout the cabin for hooking up accessories, and the infotainment interface is displayed on a 5-inch touchscreen.
The Bighorn comes next, and it is equipped with 60/40 split rear seats and a better infotainment system. This upgrade adds compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The mid-level Laramie is the most popular version of the Ram 1500. With heated/cooled leather-trimmed seats and a 9-speaker stereo, you can jam out to your favorite tunes all year long. The touchscreen on this model is also larger, measuring 8.4-inches.
For enhanced off-roading, you can opt for the Rebel. It features rear parking sensors to help with hitching a trailer. For a stylish interior, take a peek at the Longhorn. It includes heated bucket seats draped in premium leather upholstery and a heated/leather-wrapped steering wheel. Finally, the most luxurious model is the Limited trim. With voice-activated navigation and a powerful 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, this truck has all the bells and whistles.
The 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Trims and Interior Features
Things are a bit different in the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic. Also available in four trims, each one has been shaken up. The base Tradesman features dual USB ports for charging mobile devices and a 6-speaker sound system. Cruise control allows you to relax during long drives, and the rearview camera will help prevent fender benders. Vinyl upholstery and rubber flooring are standard here as well.
Moving to the Express trim will upgrade the flooring to carpet, but it is still considered a work truck. Next is the Warlock. The variances on this model are mainly on the exterior. The SLT gets a 5-inch touchscreen that displays the basic infotainment interface. At the top of the pack is the Laramie. This model adds heated and cooled leather seats with power-adjustability for the ultimate comfort.
Exterior and Paint Colors
Now that we’ve covered all of the performance, tech, and comfort features, it’s time to move to the outside. Paint colors are an important aspect of any car, but especially to a truck.
For the 2020 Ram 1500, you can choose between six and nine paint options depending on the trim level. These include Diamond Black Crystal, Granite Crystal Metallic, Olive Green, Bright White, Billet Silver Metallic, Maximum Steel Metallic, Delmonico Red, Flame Red, and Patriot Blue.
You should also note that the 2020 Ram 1500 comes with a Multifunction Tailgate that opens as two swing-out doors or traditionally. Special editions include the Built To Serve Edition, the Night Edition Package, the Black Appearance Package, and the Ram Rebel Graphics.
On the other hand, the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic comes in 16 shades including Brilliant Black Crystal, Diamond Black Crystal, Maximum Steel Metallic, Billet Silver Metallic, Granite Crystal Metallic, Bright Silver Metallic, True Blue, Walnut Brown Metallic, Delmonico Red, Flame Red, Bright White, Patriot Blue, and Blue Streak among others.
The style of the tailgate on the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic is a traditional one, and it is not available in any special editions.
