My '17 Ram 3500 had the 950 ft-lb version of the 6.7L Cummins. Plenty of power for pulling anything I'll ever hook to it.
But, it does NOT have to move 80K+. It does NOT have to move that 80K+ for 600+ miles every day. It does NOT have to stop that 80K+ a dozen times an hour.
I've had this discussion with some of the die-hard Ram guys a dozen times. It's not all about power, it's about longevity. I love my 6.7, bit even the old 250 horse 673 I drove would outlast it in a heavy truck!
Jo-Jo, this is an interesting discussion. Like everybody, I seem to always want MORE POWER (argh, argh, argh). But, I also remember all too well the 180 horse Thermodynes slooooowly dragging those heavy weights up the hills. The 237 and 250 motors were noticeably better. A 300 or 350 was incredible. The 400 HP stuff just seemed like showing off! I guess it is just progress that newer stuff is stouter. I guess the comfort levels of the newer stuff are supposed to reduce driver fatigue. But, to me, a truck is SUPPOSED to be a little bit rough. But, that's probably just because that's how they were "back then". I'm sure my back would appreciate the improvements in the newer stuff.
In any engine, turning up the power can reduce longevity. Everything in life is a bit of a trade-off. But, there is also usually an optimum point...where the lines cross. I mean, straining the guts out of a weaker engine can shorten its longevity, too. Just like putting too much power on it can. I guess, if we knew what that magic number was, we could just tune everything to that point and get the best compromise of power and longevity.
Then we would go buy lottery tickets, because we would apparently have gifted insight into the netherworld!
I am going to keep reading this one because EVERYBODY'S opinion on this is valid. They vary by experience and requirement.