Ford Versus Ram: The Struggle Between Heavy Duty Giants

Photo Source: Ford

Ford is an immensely popular American automaker, and the one segment in its lineup that has been consistently favored for decades is the truck segment. It is a very competitive class, though, and as far as heavy-duty trucks go, Ford’s offering, the 2023 F-250, has some potent competition from other pickups, such as the 2023 Ram 2500. The Ford Super Duty range sets the bar by providing everything for everyone, including all the towing capability, while the Ram 2500 heavy-duty pickup truck beckons those who tow or work hard every day. This article delves into two vehicles to determine which one adapts better to long-term ownership.

Reasonable Pricing

While visually similar to Ford’s half-ton F-150, the three-quarter-ton 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty is a much beefier machine. Like the smaller F-150, however, it is offered in a dizzying array of configurations, from work rigs to sumptuous luxury trucks. As such, these heavy-duty haulers come at a cost. Ford’s F-250 begins with a price tag of $43,970 MSRP (Plus destination fee) for the introductory-level XL trim. At the center of the lineup, the sticker price of the Lariat is $61,410 MSRP (Plus destination fee). 

For those who need to haul larger loads, such as multi-horse trailers or fifth-wheel campers, a heavy-duty pickup like the 2023 Ram 2500 is a must-have. The vehicle’s entry-level trim, the Tradesman, starts at $46,050 MSRP (Plus destination fee), while the middling trim, the Laramie, comes in at $63,480 MSRP (Plus destination fee). The Ram 2500 encounters a marginal uptick in cost compared to the Ford F-250, and the higher price continues throughout most of the range, granting Ford an advantage in overall affordability.

Beneath the Hoods

The 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty comes equipped with four robust engine choices. The standard 6.2-liter gasoline-powered V-8 accelerates up to 400 horsepower. On the other hand, the optional gasoline engine is a 7.3-liter V-8 with 430 horsepower, and the 6.7-liter turbodiesel delivers 475 horsepower while producing 1,050 pound-feet of torque. Still, a high-output variant of the diesel engine doles out 500 ponies and a staggering 1,200 pound-feet of torque.

The Super Duty edges ahead of the Ram in terms of engine selection and power output. For example, the Ram 2500 only provides two engine choices, and the Ford is well above both of them in regard to acceleration. To clarify, the 2023 Ram 2500 offers a 6.4-liter V-8 with 410 horsepower and a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel inline-six that puts out 370 horsepower and 850 pound-feet of torque. In addition, as far as heavy-duty trucks go, the F-250 boasts strong acceleration, a commanding view of the road, and decent vehicle dynamics that permit novice drivers to acclimate to the vast size of the Super Duty.

The Interiors

Inside, Ford upgraded the basic amenities, technology, and materials of the Super Duty. Power features, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and cruise control come standard. Options range from off-road packages to the trick max reclining front seats in its lighter F-150 counterpart to a color head-up display with a design inspired by fighter jets. The materials on high-end trims like the Lariat and above feature better detailing, giving those trims a refined feel. Of note, those trims also feature a 12-inch touchscreen and integrate a Bang & Olufsen premium stereo system.

By contrast, the interior creature comforts of the Ram 2500 seem relatively scarce. The standard infotainment unit in the Ram is a basic 5-inch touchscreen that does not incorporate Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. A Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is available. Also, customers can opt for a larger 12-inch screen if they desire.

That said, anyone shopping for three-quarter ton pickups should absolutely consider the 2023 Ford F-250. In any measurement where it is not the clear winner among its rivals, it is not far behind. It offers plenty of durable mechanical pieces, brawn, and many desirable features. If the 2023 Ford F-250 has piqued your curiosity, please come visit Sunrise Ford. We have a plethora of options to choose from. Whether you are purchasing a vehicle or looking to get your vehicle services from a team of trained service professionals that can help with an easy online appointment, we have always got you covered.