The Toyota Tundra and Ram 1500 are two of the best full-size trucks, but new models can be expensive. That’s why considering a used pickup could save you money. Here’s a 2018 Toyota Tundra vs. 2018 Ram 1500 comparison to help you decide which used truck is the better buy on a $30,000 budget.

	2018 Toyota Tundra	2018 Ram 1500
Used Price Range	$26,300–$43,100	$19,400–$41,400
Engine Types + Sizes	4.6-liter V8 or 5.7-liter V8	3.6-liter V6, 5.7-liter V8, or 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6
Horsepower + Torque	310 hp + 327 lb-ft or 381 hp and 401 lb-ft	305 hp + 269 lb-ft, 395 hp + 410 lb-ft, or 240 hp + 420 lb-ft
Transmission + Drivetrain	6-speed automatic + standard rear-wheel drive	8-speed automatic + standard rear-wheel drive
Payload + Towing	1,730 lbs max payload + 10,200 lbs max towing	1,880 lbs max payload + 10,640 lbs max towing
Fuel efficiency	17 mpg combined	21 mpg combined

2018 Toyota Tundra pros and cons

Pros:

The Tundra has two powerful V8 engine options and some spacious seating. Like most other Toyota models, the Tundra is highly reliable and safe.

Cons:

However, its engines have poor fuel economy, they don’t allow the truck to tow as much as other trucks can, and the automaker used some cheap materials in the cabin.

2018 Ram 1500 pros and cons

Pros:

Meanwhile, U.S. News praises the Ram 1500 for its “engaging performance.” This used truck also scores points for its high-quality cabin, easy-to-use infotainment features, and better reliability than the average pickup.

Cons:

But like the Tundra, the Ram 1500 doesn’t have a great max towing capacity. It also received some subpar safety scores.

2018 Toyota Tundra vs. 2018 Ram 1500: Driving and performance

Both trucks offer potent engines, but the Ram has the more powerful options. While the Toyota has a smooth ride off-road, it struggles on pavement.

Meanwhile, the Ram has a remarkably smooth ride for a truck, so it’s clearly better than the Toyota in that regard. Plus, the standard Ram is more fuel-efficient than its Toyota rival.

2018 Toyota Tundra vs. 2018 Ram 1500: Interior and tech

This Ram truck is well-known for its high-quality interior. However, shoppers had to pay extra for most of those features. The 2018 Ram base model started with vinyl seats, a six-speaker sound system, and one USB port.

Meanwhile, the 2018 Tundra had far more standard features. It came with cloth upholstery, a 6.1-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, a USB port, Siri Eyes Free, and more.

2018 Toyota Tundra vs. 2018 Ram 1500: Trim levels and features

Like most other trucks, the 2018 Tundra and 2018 Ram 1500 offered various trim levels. The Ram had about a dozen trims, while the Tundra had five. The top trims decked out either pickup with luxurious features, such as heated seats and leather upholstery. However, the Tundra’s specialized off-roading trim, TRD Pro, was on a hiatus for this model year. 

Which used truck is the right fit for you?

Shoppers can find examples of these used trucks for around $30,000, but J.D. Power reports that buyers typically pay a few thousand less for the 2018 Ram 1500. It’s most likely cheaper because the Toyota pickup retains its value so well. However, the 2018 Tundra also has better standard interior features and higher safety and reliability ratings.

Both models have pros and cons, so only the shopper can decide which suits their needs and desires better.

Regardless of which used truck you choose, obtain a vehicle history report and have a trusted mechanic perform an inspection to uncover potential problems before purchasing. Also, prices may vary depending on trim level, mileage, overall condition, and location.