The reason I posed the question is because, as some of you know, I have tested it. At 2000 feet above sea level, they were both about 22 seconds 0-60 towing the same 14k 5er on the same road. Surprised me and the guy who owns the Cummins powered truck.
If there are any doubters, I can post the videos again, and you can see for yourself.
My point is that the performance isn't as vastly different as some would have you believe to justify why they bought what they bought. About the only negative reviews I've ever seen have both been posted in this thread. I haven't driven a 4500 series RAM, let alone one with a Hemi, nor have I towed with my truck at 10,000 feet plus above sea level, so I don't have any negative experiences like in those two videos.
It appears, from the reply by RAM engineers about the Ike Gauntlet test, that there is specific software designed in to cause the truck to perform the way it did. Why? I have no idea. I haven't experienced that "power limiting/rpm limiting" with my towing up to 8000 feet. I guess if I ever head to Colorado, I might experience it. There must be a reason they programmed it that way.
Will a diesel pull heavy loads in higher elevation better than a big gas engine (like the 6.4L Hemi)? Yes.
Is opting for the diesel always the best choice for everyone who tows no matter what? No.
There are choices, and everyone has to decide what works for them.
