How much horsepower does a Ram 3500 make?
The Ram 3500’s horsepower varies by engine. The gasoline option delivers about 410 horsepower, while the Cummins turbo-diesel options range from roughly 400 horsepower (standard) to 420 horsepower (high-output).
To understand why these numbers matter, note that horsepower is just one part of the equation. Torque, gearing, and drivetrain configuration all influence real-world performance, especially when towing or carrying heavy payloads.
Engine options and horsepower
The Ram 3500 is offered with multiple powertrains. The following figures reflect current model-year specifications and are expressed as SAE net horsepower for comparable performance across configurations.
- 6.4L HEMI V8 gasoline engine with eTorque: 410 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel (standard output): approximately 400 hp and 1,000 lb-ft of torque
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel HO (high-output): 420 hp and 1,075 lb-ft of torque
In practice, most heavy-duty Ram 3500 buyers opt for the diesel for maximum towing and payload capacity, while the gasoline option appeals to buyers seeking strong everyday performance without diesel-related maintenance concerns.
Performance context
While horsepower indicates peak power, torque at low-to-mid RPMs drives towing ability and initial acceleration. The Cummins high-output setup delivers more torque, which translates to better pulling power when pulling large trailers or heavy loads from a stop. The gasoline engine offers solid power for regular use, but overall towing performance is typically superior with the diesel options.
What this means for buyers
Choosing the right Ram 3500 powertrain depends on your needs: daily driving comfort versus maximum towing and workload capability. Always verify the exact horsepower and torque for your specific truck’s configuration (cab/bed size, drivetrain, and emissions equipment can influence ratings).
Summary
Overall, the Ram 3500’s horsepower ranges from about 410 hp in the gas-powered version to 400 hp (standard diesel) and 420 hp (high-output diesel), with torque up to 1,075 lb-ft. This variety lets buyers tailor power output to their towing and payload requirements, making the Ram 3500 a flexible option in the heavy-duty pickup segment.
