Mac James Truck Playoffs – Round 1: GMC Sierra vs. Dodge Ram 1500

In our first match-up of the Truck Playoffs, the Ford F-150 deked out the Chevrolet Silverado. This week, we’ve pitted the next pair of half tonnes against one another as the second round of the NHL playoffs comes to a close. Who will be the Ottawa Senators to the New York Rangers, and make it to the next round?!

In our second matchup, we clashed the GMC Sierra against the Ram 1500. These are two of the best alternatives to the heavy hitters, both of which deliver impressive engine output, reliable performance, and remarkably sophisticated technology. Sierra, the often-regarded third seat in its bracket, is an upscale pickup with sculpted sheetmetal and premium trim. The Ram 1500, aiming towards providing a model for everyone, is vying for that seat with its incredible fuel economy and car-like cruising.

1. THE NUMBERS SAY
   Most base and SLE Sierra 1500s come standard with a 285-hp 4.3-liter V-6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission; a 355-hp 5.3-liter V-8 that’s also connected to a six-speed automatic is optional, but it’s standard on base and SLE Sierra 1500 double-cab models with the 6.5-foot bed. The 2016 Sierra 1500 has a maximum trailering capacity when properly equipped of up to 5,443 kilograms while the 1500’s top hauling ability is just 4,826 kilograms.
2. ENGINE OPTIONS
   The Ram is the only full-size pickup to offer an optional diesel engine for optimal fuel economy and an air suspension for car-like cruising. According to Car and Driver: the three available engines in the Ram 1500 are the base 3.6-liter V-6 that produces 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, the 5.7-liter V-8 making 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, and the top-tier turbo-diesel 3.0-liter V-6, which is good for 240 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. All the powerplants pair with a seamless-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear- or all-wheel drive is available with each engine, but they’re not compatible in every cab and bed size.
3. POWER HUNGRY?
   The Sierra peaks over the Ram in horsepower (420 hp (6.2-L V8) versus 395 hp (5.7-L V8)). However, the Ram steps up in V8 fuel efficiency (city/highway: 15.8/10.8 L/100km versus the Sierra’s 14.6/10.4 L/100km). The Ram is the fuel economy champ, but for powertrains that people buy most often, the GMC Sierra is the winner.
4. TECH SPECS
   The 2017 models have a whole lot of new technology added to keep you connected, safe and alert. Ram’s Rebel adds the 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system, automatic dual-zone climate control, remote start, the premium gauge cluster, backup camera and rear-park assist, a security alarm, and a limited-slip differential. The GMC offers a Driver Alert Package containing Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Driver Alert Seat systems, while the RAM can be upgraded with SmartBeam headlights, keyless passive entry with push-button starting and an air suspension.

Do you think the Ram scaled over the Sierra’s peaks or does this GMC have Ram by the horns?

Survey says – GMC SIERRA EDGES OUT RAM 1500 FOR THE WIN.

Stay tuned to see who rounds out the top 3 alongside the F150 and Sierra – will it be the Nissan Titan or Toyota Tundra?!