What To Know
- While the Ford F350 Diesel edges out the Ram 3500 Diesel in horsepower and torque, the Ram 3500 Diesel’s Cummins engine is renowned for its exceptional reliability and durability.
- The primary purpose of a heavy-duty pickup truck is to haul and tow heavy loads, and both the Ram 3500 Diesel and the Ford F350 Diesel excel in this regard.
- Safety is paramount when operating a heavy-duty pickup truck, and both the Ram 3500 Diesel and the Ford F350 Diesel come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect occupants and others on the road.
In the realm of heavy-duty pickup trucks, two titans stand tall: the Ram 3500 Diesel and the Ford F350 Diesel. These beasts of burden are engineered to conquer the toughest tasks, hauling and towing with unmatched prowess. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll put the Ram 3500 Diesel and the Ford F350 Diesel head-to-head, dissecting their capabilities, features, and overall performance to determine the ultimate victor.
Power and Performance: Unleashing the Beasts
The heart of any heavy-duty pickup is its engine, and both the Ram 3500 Diesel and the Ford F350 Diesel pack a serious punch. The Ram 3500 Diesel boasts a mighty 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine, generating a staggering 420 horsepower and a colossal 1,075 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the Ford F350 Diesel is powered by a 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel engine, delivering a respectable 450 horsepower and 1,250 lb-ft of torque.
While the Ford F350 Diesel edges out the Ram 3500 Diesel in horsepower and torque, the Ram 3500 Diesel’s Cummins engine is renowned for its exceptional reliability and durability. This legendary engine has earned a reputation for enduring even the most demanding tasks and racking up hundreds of thousands of miles without major issues.
Towing and Payload: Hauling and Towing Heavy Loads
The primary purpose of a heavy-duty pickup truck is to haul and tow heavy loads, and both the Ram 3500 Diesel and the Ford F350 Diesel excel in this regard. The Ram 3500 Diesel boasts a maximum towing capacity of 37,100 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 7,680 lbs. The Ford F350 Diesel, on the other hand, offers a slightly higher maximum towing capacity of 37,500 lbs but a slightly lower maximum payload capacity of 7,350 lbs.
When comparing these two titans, it’s important to note that towing and payload capacities can vary depending on factors such as engine configuration, drivetrain, and trim level. Therefore, it’s essential to carefully consider your specific needs and requirements when choosing between the Ram 3500 Diesel and the Ford F350 Diesel.
Interior and Comfort: A Haven for Hardworking Professionals
Heavy-duty pickup trucks are not just about brute strength; they also need to provide comfort and convenience for long hauls and demanding jobs. Both the Ram 3500 Diesel and the Ford F350 Diesel offer spacious cabins with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. They also feature a variety of amenities and technologies to enhance comfort and functionality, such as heated and ventilated seats, a premium audio system, and a large touchscreen infotainment system.
However, the Ram 3500 Diesel has a slight edge over the Ford F350 Diesel in terms of interior refinement and overall comfort. Its cabin is more upscale and features higher-quality materials, providing a more luxurious experience for drivers and passengers alike.
Off-Road Capability: Conquering Rugged Terrain
For those who venture off the beaten path, the Ram 3500 Diesel and the Ford F350 Diesel offer impressive off-road capabilities. Both trucks come standard with four-wheel drive and a variety of features designed to tackle challenging terrain, such as a locking rear differential, skid plates, and all-terrain tires.
The Ram 3500 Diesel, however, has a slight advantage in off-road capability thanks to its available off-road package. This package includes features such as an electronic locking front differential, a disconnecting sway bar, and a raised air intake, making it even more capable of conquering rugged terrain.
Safety Features: Protecting Your Precious Cargo
Safety is paramount when operating a heavy-duty pickup truck, and both the Ram 3500 Diesel and the Ford F350 Diesel come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect occupants and others on the road. These features include airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
The Ram 3500 Diesel, however, offers a slightly more advanced safety suite, including features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These additional features provide enhanced peace of mind and help to reduce the risk of accidents.
Fuel Efficiency: Striking a Balance Between Power and Economy
Heavy-duty pickup trucks are not known for their fuel efficiency, but both the Ram 3500 Diesel and the Ford F350 Diesel offer respectable fuel economy for their size and capabilities. The Ram 3500 Diesel achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway, while the Ford F350 Diesel gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway.
While the Ram 3500 Diesel has a slight edge in fuel efficiency, it’s important to note that actual fuel economy may vary depending on factors such as driving habits, load weight, and towing conditions.