Ram Promaster 3500 Vs. Ford Transit 350: Which Workhorse Is Better For Your Business?

In the competitive world of commercial vehicles, the Ram ProMaster 3500 and Ford Transit 350 stand out as two of the most popular choices for businesses and individuals in need of a spacious and reliable cargo van. Both vehicles offer impressive capabilities, but they also have distinct differences that may influence your buying decision. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key aspects of these two cargo vans, helping you make an informed choice based on your specific requirements.

Engine and Performance: Power and Efficiency

1. Engine Options:

• Ram ProMaster 3500: The ProMaster 3500 comes standard with a 3.6L V6 gasoline engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It also offers an optional 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine that produces 174 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque.

• Ford Transit 350: The Transit 350 provides a choice of two engines: a 3.5L V6 gasoline engine that generates 275 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L Power Stroke V6 turbodiesel engine that produces 250 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque.

2. Fuel Efficiency:

• Ram ProMaster 3500: The ProMaster 3500 with the gasoline engine achieves an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, while the EcoDiesel engine offers an impressive 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.

• Ford Transit 350: The Transit 350 with the gasoline engine delivers an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city and 19 mpg highway, while the Power Stroke turbodiesel engine provides an estimated 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.

Cargo Space and Payload Capacity: Room for Your Business

1. Cargo Volume:

• Ram ProMaster 3500: The ProMaster 3500 offers a cavernous cargo volume of 530 cubic feet, making it one of the most spacious cargo vans in its class.

• Ford Transit 350: The Transit 350 provides a generous cargo volume of 487 cubic feet, offering ample space for various cargo needs.

2. Payload Capacity:

• Ram ProMaster 3500: The ProMaster 3500 boasts a maximum payload capacity of 4,680 pounds, allowing you to transport heavy loads with ease.

• Ford Transit 350: The Transit 350 offers a maximum payload capacity of 4,560 pounds, providing sufficient capability for most cargo hauling tasks.

Safety Features: Protecting Your Investment

1. Standard Safety Features:

• Ram ProMaster 3500: The ProMaster 3500 comes equipped with a range of standard safety features, including airbags, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera.

• Ford Transit 350: The Transit 350 offers a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, such as airbags, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera.

2. Advanced Safety Features:

• Ram ProMaster 3500: The ProMaster 3500 can be equipped with advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

• Ford Transit 350: The Transit 350 offers a variety of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Interior Comfort and Convenience: Making Your Workday Easier

1. Seating and Comfort:

• Ram ProMaster 3500: The ProMaster 3500 provides comfortable seating for three passengers, with supportive seats and ample headroom and legroom.

• Ford Transit 350: The Transit 350 offers seating for three passengers, with comfortable seats and generous headroom and legroom, ensuring a pleasant driving experience.

2. Infotainment and Connectivity:

• Ram ProMaster 3500: The ProMaster 3500 features a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium audio system.

• Ford Transit 350: The Transit 350 comes equipped with a SYNC infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system.

Warranty and Maintenance: Keeping Your Van on the Road

1. Warranty Coverage:

• Ram ProMaster 3500: The ProMaster 3500 comes with a basic warranty of 3 years/36,000 miles and a powertrain warranty of 5 years/60,000 miles.

• Ford Transit 350: The Transit 350 offers a basic warranty of 3 years/36,000 miles and a powertrain warranty of 5 years/60,000 miles.

2. Maintenance Costs:

• Ram ProMaster 3500: The ProMaster 3500 has an estimated annual maintenance cost of around $1,000, depending on usage and driving conditions.

• Ford Transit 350: The Transit 350 has an estimated annual maintenance cost of approximately $1,200, subject to usage and driving conditions.

Key Points: Choosing the Right Cargo Van for Your Needs

The Ram ProMaster 3500 and Ford Transit 350 are both capable and versatile cargo vans that offer a range of features and benefits. The ProMaster 3500 excels in terms of cargo space, payload capacity, and fuel efficiency, while the Transit 350 provides a comprehensive suite of safety features and advanced technology. Ultimately, the choice between these two vans depends on your specific requirements, budget, and preferences. Consider the aspects that matter most to your business and make an informed decision to find the perfect cargo van for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which van has a more powerful engine, the Ram ProMaster 3500 or the Ford Transit 350?
A: The Ram ProMaster 3500 with the 3.6L V6 gasoline engine produces 280 horsepower, while the Ford Transit 350 with the 3.5L Power Stroke turbodiesel engine generates 250 horsepower.

Q: Which van offers better fuel efficiency, the Ram ProMaster 3500 or the Ford Transit 350?
A: The Ram ProMaster 3500 with the EcoDiesel engine delivers impressive fuel efficiency of 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the Ford Transit 350 with the Power Stroke turbodiesel engine offers an estimated 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.

Q: Which van has a larger cargo volume, the Ram ProMaster 3500 or the Ford Transit 350?
A: The Ram ProMaster 3500 boasts a cavernous cargo volume of 530 cubic feet, surpassing the Ford Transit 350’s cargo volume of 487 cubic feet.