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Which is better, 3.21 or 3.92 axle ratio?

When it comes to choosing the right axle ratio for your vehicle, the decision between 3.21 and 3.92 can be a tricky one. Both ratios have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the "better" choice ultimately depends on your specific driving needs and preferences. In this article, we'll explore the key differences between these two axle ratios to help you make an informed decision.


Understanding Axle Ratios


The axle ratio is the relationship between the number of times the driveshaft rotates compared to the number of times the wheels rotate. A higher axle ratio, such as 3.92, means the wheels will rotate fewer times for each rotation of the driveshaft, resulting in more torque and better acceleration. Conversely, a lower axle ratio, like 3.21, means the wheels will rotate more times for each driveshaft rotation, leading to better fuel efficiency and higher top speeds.


Comparing 3.21 and 3.92 Axle Ratios



  • Acceleration and Towing Capacity: The 3.92 axle ratio provides better acceleration and towing capacity, making it a better choice for those who need to haul heavy loads or want quicker off-the-line performance.

  • Fuel Efficiency: The 3.21 axle ratio is more fuel-efficient, as it allows the engine to run at a lower rpm at a given speed, resulting in better gas mileage.li>
  • Top Speed: Vehicles with the 3.21 axle ratio will generally have a higher top speed compared to those with the 3.92 ratio, as the lower ratio allows the engine to spin at a lower rpm at higher speeds.


Ultimately, the choice between 3.21 and 3.92 axle ratios will depend on your specific driving needs and preferences. If you prioritize acceleration, towing capacity, and off-road performance, the 3.92 ratio may be the better option. However, if fuel efficiency and higher top speeds are more important to you, the 3.21 ratio could be the way to go.

What is the best diff ratio for towing?


The higher the ratio, the more revolutions per minute. Towing: For pickup trucks released after 2010, the best axle ratio for towing falls somewhere between 3.55 and 3.73. This range provides good acceleration for V8 gas and diesel engines.



What axle ratio is better for mileage?


The lower the number, the better fuel economy, and the higher the number the more towing power you have, but fuel economy suffers. For instance, a 3:31 gets better fuel economy than a 3:73. On the other hand, a 3:73 or perhaps a 4:10 will tow much more, while fuel economy greatly drops.



What is the towing capacity of a 3.21 axle ratio?


2024 Ram 1500 Classic Towing Chart

2024 Ram ClassicREG CAB 4X2QUAD CAB 4X2
3.21 AXLE RATIO7,240 LBS6,870 LBS
3.55 AXLE RATIO9,290 LBS8,920 LBS
3.92 AXLE RATIO9,210 LBS10,470 LBS
RAM 1500 5.7L V8 8-SPEED



What does 3.21 mean?


Happy World Down Syndrome Day! It's 3.21, which stands for Trisomy 21, which means 3 copies of the 21st chromosome, which means, Down Syndrome! My little Leo has a whole wide world inside of him, and it is my prayer that the whole wide world will take the chance to see HIM for all he is!



What axle ratio is best for acceleration?


Performance: Looking again at the ratios used above, the higher 3.55 ratio indicates faster acceleration whether the truck's empty or loaded. The higher the ratio, the more revolutions per minute. Towing: For pickup trucks released after 2010, the best axle ratio for towing falls somewhere between 3.55 and 3.73.



Do you want a higher or lower axle ratio?


While higher numeric ratios provide more pulling power, they will generally result in a reduction in fuel economy, as the engine will rev higher at a given vehicle speed compared to an identical truck equipped with a lower numeric axle ratio.



What gets better gas mileage 3.73 or 4.10 gears?


To keep it simple, if you want a daily driver and want to save a little on fuel and you care about performance but don't want screaming RPM, then taller gears like the 3.73 ring and pinion are the way to go.



Is there a big difference between 3.21 and 3.92 axle ratio?


The standard 3.21 axle ratio then gets you a maximum tow rating of 8,440 pounds. Go with the 3.92 gearing and the tow rating jumps up to 11,540 pounds — a massive 3,100-pound difference.



Is a 3.21 rear axle ratio good?


To summarize - 3.21 is fine for stock tires but any increase in tire size will warrant deeper gears to keep you happy.



Which RAM axle ratio is best for towing?


If you are towing then a 3.92 is the ratio you want, you can tow with a 3.55 or a 3.23 but they are not optimal and will work the transmission harder and lug the engine more because the RPM's will be lower.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.