I've driven both the Toyota Tundra and the Dodge Ram and compared not only the features of the trucks but also the specs and my impressions of both trucks. While I didn't compare every aspect, I have highlighted what I believe are the key differences between the trucks. I encourage anyone thinking about buying either truck to drive both of them and to read as many reviews as you can before making a decision.

Comparing the Dodge HEMI SLT QuadCab to the Toyota 5.7L Tundra DoubleCab SR5, both in 4x4, was quite a bit of fun. Both trucks are big. Both trucks are fast. Both are capable of making their owners very happy. However, there are some key differences.

The engines of these trucks are both powerful -- 381hp for the Toyota, 345hp for the Dodge, and both of these engines have excellent acceleration. However the HEMI uses a less sophisticated pushrod engine design compared to the iForce's DOHC design. Toyota's engine uses more technology to control combustion, and the result is quite a bit more power than the HEMI as well as better efficiency. I noticed the Tundra's fuel economy was about 2mpg better than the Ram during my test, and I'm sure this is due to Tundra's superior engine technology. Considering the Toyota is much more powerful, this is a major advantage to buying the Tundra.

Comparing transmissions wasn't too surprising -- the Ram has a five speed auto, the Tundra a six-speed, and as expected the Tundra accelerated better and shifted more smoothly than the Ram. Combine the Tundra's higher tow rating of 10,300 lbs to Ram's 8,500 lbs and it's clear the Tundra's transmission is also stronger.

Both trucks accelerate very well, and, surprisingly, they stop about the same (60mph to 0 in about 130 feet). Even though the Toyota has better brake components than the Ram - Toyota's larger front rotors, ventilated discs front AND rear, and standard 4-wheel ABS - both trucks stopped equally well. I suspect that while towing or hauling Toyota's better components will make a difference, but I was unable to confirm that during my test.

The Tundra's frame isn't as good as the Ram - at least on paper. I think both trucks are probably strong, but the Tundra uses a combination of fully boxed and c-channel steel for its frame whereas the Ram has a fully boxed frame from head to toe. Toyota has a history of making a great vehicle, but I think going with a fully boxed frame would have been a better decision.

As far as the trucks cabs are concerned, the Tundra has more comfortable seats, it's nicer, the interior is more modern than the ram and has more features, and the Toyota interior is made of better quality materials. The Tundra design is about 5 years newer than the Ram's design, and it shows when you sit in the trucks.

The Ram handles as well as the Tundra, and the Ram's safety rating is actually higher than the Tundra. The Ram also is a better looking truck than the Tundra. However, in most other aspets the Toyota Tundra is superior to the Dodge Ram. Frankly, that really shouldn’t come as a surprise. Toyota’s truck is a newer design and has the benefit of a lot more technology. I can’t wait to see how the new Ram (due out in 2009) will compare to the Tundra.