Ram 1500 vs. Ford F-150
These are the most popular models associated with each manufacturer, and it's easy to see why. Both are offered in a variety of trim levels and can be equipped with the premium features you expect to only find on luxury sedans. However, only the Ram 1500 offers the available RamBox® Cargo Management System. This feature provides you with lockable, drainable storage bins that are built into the side of the truck bed, making them an ideal place to secure the valuable tools that you use every day.
When it comes to performance, both trucks offer a variety of engines. The standard engine in the Ram 1500 delivers more of the power that you need, though, and all Ram engines are paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission; the F-150's standard transmission is a less-capable 6-speed automatic. If you regularly haul on less-than-ideal roads, the Ram 1500 can be equipped with an available -- and exclusive -- Active Level Four Corner air suspension that keeps items from sliding around. The F-150 doesn't offer such convenience.
Ram 2500 vs. Ford F-250
When you're looking for a pickup that can handle the hard jobs, these two rivals are well-equipped. However, the Ram 2500 comes with a larger, more capable V8 engine as a standard source of power, while the Ford's V8 engine can't quite match up to the horsepower, torque, and towing capacity numbers. Opt for the legendary 6.7-liter Cummins® turbo diesel engine in the Ram 2500, and you enjoy 800 pound-feet of torque and a healthy max towing capability of 17,980 pounds.
When we compare base models of each truck, it's clear that the Ram 2500 offers you more standard features for your money. For instance, tinted windshield glass helps keep the cab cooler on hot, sunny days, and keeps prying eyes from noticing essential paperwork year-round. Meanwhile, cruise control is a convenience that costs more for the F-250, making it even more costly than the Ram 2500.
Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350
This battle of the behemoths is a close one, as you'd expect. However, the Ram 3500 offers some standard features to even the introductory model that Ford lists as expensive options, making the Ram 3500 the far better value for those working with a budget -- and what business isn't? For instance, the Ram 3500 comes with a bed liner as a standard feature, along with 18-inch wheels; Ford charges more to add a bed liner to the F-350, which sits on smaller 17-inch wheels.
If you're looking at a heavy-duty truck, chances are you need that heavy-duty performance. The Ram 3500 boasts a 6.4-liter HEMI® V8 engine that generates a best-in-class 410 horsepower and a has a maximum towing capacity of 16,480 pounds. The F-350, on the other hand, has a 6.2-liter V8 that makes 385 horsepower and offers a max towing capability of around 13,000 pounds -- meaning you'll get more far power from the Ram when you ask for it.