Opinion on half ton trucks
Im at the point im looking at a new TV. I have done extensive research, poured through both biased and un-biased forums. Watched tons of YouTube videos on MPGs, tow tests, and known mechanical issue...
Forum Discussion
One usually will get far more value for their dollar in getting a 3/4 ton. A well spec'd 3/4 ton is usually in the same price range as a well spec'd 1/2 ton, yet the 3/4 ton will offer so much more.
My 2015 2500 double cab 6.5' bed, 6.0L L96 with 4.10, Z71, LT, snow plow prep, tow package with integrated brake controller, 5W/Gooseneck prep, with a Line-X bed liner, Auto Armor 7 yr paint protection package and rust prevention package, along with Raptor running boards, and I took it, brand new, off the lot for $38K. It has 13,500 lb tow rating, and 9500 lb GVWR, which if there are two people, full tank of fuel, and a couple hundred lb of tools in the back, there remains about 2400 lb of payload available. To even remotely approach that capability, one would have to spec out a 1/2 ton to such a degree that I seriously doubt they could drive it off the lot for under $45K, even in 2015. And it still would not have the capability of my 3/4 ton, and especially the capability of dealing with a trailer in 30 mph cross winds and other fun scenarios. There is lot of difference in structure, suspension, brakes, etc. That is why a 1500 is a Class 1 truck and the 2500 is a class 2 truck. And no matter how one tries with engines and such, a Class 1 is not going to be a Class 2.
I don't use my pickup as a daily driver. That is what my Cadillac is made for. I don't expect or demand my pickup to be the same in ride quality or comfort as my Cadillac. I know that many will buy a pickup trying to cover all the bases, but trying to make something fit both car and truck scenarios usually makes it not all that great for either scenario.
My 2015 2500 double cab 6.5' bed, 6.0L L96 with 4.10, Z71, LT, snow plow prep, tow package with integrated brake controller, 5W/Gooseneck prep, with a Line-X bed liner, Auto Armor 7 yr paint protection package and rust prevention package, along with Raptor running boards, and I took it, brand new, off the lot for $38K. It has 13,500 lb tow rating, and 9500 lb GVWR, which if there are two people, full tank of fuel, and a couple hundred lb of tools in the back, there remains about 2400 lb of payload available. To even remotely approach that capability, one would have to spec out a 1/2 ton to such a degree that I seriously doubt they could drive it off the lot for under $45K, even in 2015. And it still would not have the capability of my 3/4 ton, and especially the capability of dealing with a trailer in 30 mph cross winds and other fun scenarios. There is lot of difference in structure, suspension, brakes, etc. That is why a 1500 is a Class 1 truck and the 2500 is a class 2 truck. And no matter how one tries with engines and such, a Class 1 is not going to be a Class 2.
I don't use my pickup as a daily driver. That is what my Cadillac is made for. I don't expect or demand my pickup to be the same in ride quality or comfort as my Cadillac. I know that many will buy a pickup trying to cover all the bases, but trying to make something fit both car and truck scenarios usually makes it not all that great for either scenario.
