Ford F-150 vs RAM 1500

The Ford F-150 and the Ram 1500 have been the standard by which full-size pickup trucks are measured for many years. Both are renowned for their exceptional towing performance and off-roading capabilities. Beyond their similarities, both offer unique advantages worth considering if you’re shopping for a new truck for work or daily commutes in Spokane. Join us in this Ford F-150 vs Ram 1500 head-to-head comparison as we explore how these two heavyweights stack up.

Performance and Powertrains

The Ford F-150 comes with six powerful engines to choose from. Its base powertrain is a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 that produces 325 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. Spokane drivers seeking more power can opt for the available 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 or the 3.5-liter High-Output. The former delivers 382 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, while the latter cranks out a remarkable 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque.

If you prefer a more eco-friendly ride, you’ll be happy with the available 3.5-liter PowerBoost full-hybrid V-6. This powertrain generates 420 hp and 570 lb-ft. Ford also offers two V-8 options for those who want a balance between power and towing capabilities. The available 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V-8 churns out 400 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, while the 5.2-liter supercharged V-8 outputs an astonishing 720 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque.

The Ram 1500 offers a leaner engine lineup, with just three options. The standard powertrain is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, churning 305 hp and 269 lb-ft. But if you require more power for towing your decked-out camper to Little Spokane River Natural Area, you can choose from one of the available Hurricane inline-six engines. The standard 3.0-liter Hurricane produces 420 horsepower and 469 pound-feet of torque, while its high-output variant delivers 540 horsepower and 521 pound-feet of torque.

Towing, Payload, and Work Capability

One of the Ford F-150’s biggest selling points is its class-leading towing performance. The truck achieves a maximum towing capacity of 13,500 pounds and a payload rating of 2,440 pounds when equipped with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6.

Additionally, it comes with various trailering tech designed to make hauling safer. The Pro Trailer Hitch Assist removes the hassle from the trailer hook-up process. It utilizes a rear camera, radar, and ultrasonic sensors to detect your trailer hitch and nudges the truck into the correct position. Also available for all Ford F-150 models is a Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which makes backing your trailer into campsites much easier.

While the Ram 1500 offers excellent towing capabilities, too, it’s no match for the F-150. Its maximum towing capacity of 11,610 pounds is achievable through the available 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six engine. Models equipped with this powertrain also get a payload of 1,930 pounds. To unlock the truck’s maximum payload of 2,360 pounds, you’ll need the standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6. However, choosing this powertrain means a towing rating of 8,130 pounds.

Ride Comfort and Interior Features

The Ford F-150 features a roomy, ergonomically designed cabin with premium comfort amenities. Seating upholstery options range from cloth-trimmed seats on the base trim to leatherette and genuine leather seating surfaces in higher trims.

Mid-tier and higher trims, like the Lariat and King Ranch, come with heated and ventilated front seats that keep you cozy in chilly weather. Some trims also feature standard ambient lighting, which enhances the cabin atmosphere during night drives. Other convenience features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a heated steering wheel, and a power sliding rear window.

The Ram 1500 doesn’t disappoint either when it comes to interior comfort. The entry-level Tradesman trim features high-quality vinyl seats, while higher models get cloth or leather seats. Additional standard and available comfort features you can access, depending on the trim of choice, include heated and ventilated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a driver memory seat.

Infotainment Technology

Both the Ford F-150 and the Ram 1500 also come with an exciting array of infotainment technologies to keep you connected and entertained while on the move. Key features available in the F-150 include:

• 12.0-inch HD touch screen
• 5G LTE WiFi hotspot
• 12-inch digital productivity screen
• Bang & Olufsen sound system
• Wireless charging pad
• AM/FM stereo

The Ram 1500 offers many equally competitive technologies, including:

• 14.5-inch center touch screen
• Front passenger touch screen display
• Dual wireless charging pads
• Bluetooth connectivity

Off-Road Capabilities

The Ford F-150 offers many standard trail-ready features in its off-road-oriented Tremor and Raptor models. The Tremor comes equipped with 18-inch aluminum wheels and 33-inch all-terrain tires, providing excellent grip on mud, sand, and rocky surfaces. It also features off-road-tuned suspension, steel skid plates, and selectable drive modes.

The high-performance Raptor model offers even more aggressive off-roading capabilities. It drives on 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 35-inch all-terrain tires suited for rock crawling and desert running. Its advanced 4×4 system locks the front and rear driveshafts to ensure maximum traction on challenging surfaces. It also features a Terrain Management System with multiple drive modes that adjust throttle response and stability control for optimal performance on tough terrain.

The Ram 1500’s RHO trim is, likewise, equipped with top-tier off-roading features. Its 18-inch beadlock-capable wheels and 35-inch all-terrain tires provide superb traction on mud, sand, and snowy roads. Meanwhile, its heavy-duty locking differential delivers maximum control and stability when navigating rugged terrain. The model also offers several drive modes, allowing you to optimize the truck’s performance on mud, sand, and snow.

Which Truck Fits Your Needs in Spokane?

With both trucks offering equally compelling performance and tech features, deciding which one to buy can be daunting. The best way to determine which of these two heavyweights best suits your needs is by getting behind the wheel. And you can do precisely that at Wendle Ford, your trusted Ford dealer in Spokane. Contact us today to test drive the latest Ford F-150 and discover its unmatched towing performance and remarkable off-roading capabilities.