What Are the Differences Between a Dodge Ram 1500 SLT & a Dodge Ram 1500 Sports Package?
by Ron BrowUpdated July 18, 2023The Dodge Ram 1500 was launched in the 1990s with a makeover that included the replacement of the old rigid rear springs with coil springs which allow it to travel in any terrain. This new model comes in five versions: the ST, SLT, TRX, Sport and the Laramie. There are substantial differences between the SLT and the Sport package of this truck.
Performance
The engine capacity of the Sport, a 5.7-liter V-8, is bigger than the 4.7 liter V-8 engine of the SLT. The Sport boasts 390 horsepower compared to 310 horsepower of the SLT. The SLT weighs 5,738 lb and the Sport package weighs slightly lower with a weight of 5,493 lb. The SLT is a full-time four-wheel drive while the Sport is an optional four-wheel drive. The SLT can tow a load of up to 10,000 lb as compared to the load of 8,400 lb that can be towed by a Sport model. The Sport has an edge over the SLT when it comes to the maneuvering with the shortest turning radius which allows it to make a U-turn with great ease.
Exterior
There are also differences on the exterior design of these two vehicles. Unlike the Sport which is equipped with 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, the SRT has the same size wheel but painted in aluminum instead. The Sport is coated with a monochromatic paint on its body and grill. It is also fitted with quad headlamps and fog lights, features that are not found on the SRT model.
Interior
The interior of the Sport has high shoulder sports utility seats as opposed to the business console found in the SLT which has a front seat center armrest. The steering of the Sport is wrapped in leather.The SLT has a larger room space than the Sport giving it a greater legroom and it also has room for six people as to the five that the Sport takes. The SLT comes equipped with an AM/FM CD player with six speakers.
Price
The Sport is relatively more expensive than the SLT. As of October, 2010, the 2011 Sport four-wheel drive cost approximately $33,000 compared to the $28,000 of the 2011 SLT.
Writer Bio
Ron Brow began freelance writing in 2003. She has written articles for publications such as the "Chicago Defender" and the "Atlanta Journal." Brow received her Bachelor of Arts in mass communication from the University of Chicago.