2020 RAM 1500 vs 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty

While Ford and Ram trucks are often compared, light- and heavy-duty trucks are lined up less often. And yet, the juxtaposition reveals interesting insights about each one’s strengths. The 2020 Ram 1500 emerged from its 2019 redesign with significant technological enhancements, notably the introduction of the EcoDiesel 3.0-liter engine. This addition marked a significant comeback for Ram in the half-ton diesel pickup segment, boasting 80% new parts aimed at improving power, efficiency, and delivery. The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty, part of America's best-selling truck series, offered unparalleled hardcore capability with various trims and configurations designed for heavy-duty tasks. This lineup showcased Ford's commitment to providing versatile, powerful trucks for all workloads, emphasizing the F-250's role in Ford's dominance in the pickup truck market.

The 2020 Ram 1500's diverse engine lineup, including the base V6 with eTorque and the powerful EcoDiesel V6, earns a 7 out of 10 performance rating. Despite some criticisms, notably turbo lag, its towing capacity and fuel efficiency demonstrate Ram's engineering prowess. The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty, with a performance rating of 8 out of 10, offers a choice of powerful engines, including a 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel that leads the segment in torque. Its superior towing and payload capacities highlight Ford's focus on making the Super Duty line the go-to choice for extreme tasks.

In terms of form and function, both the 2020 Ram 1500 and the 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty earned 8 points out of 10, although they serve different purposes based on their design and capabilities. The 2020 Ram 1500 combines class-leading torque with impressive towing and payload capacities, making it a versatile choice for both work and leisure. Its towing capacity surpasses 12,000 pounds, a figure that speaks to its strength but requires precise configuration to achieve—specifically, opting for the 3.92 axle without a crew cab or four-wheel drive (4WD). The Ram 1500's interior is notable for its comfort and spaciousness, offering more than 151 liters of interior storage space, which nearly doubles that of its nearest competitor. Its design ensures even tall adults can find ample room, with rear seats in higher trims that can recline, adding to the comfort during long drives. Despite these advantages, the maximum towing capacity's dependency on specific configurations may limit the truck's utility for some users, and the cabin's loosely calibrated dials can sometimes frustrate users during simple tasks like tuning the radio. The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty, on the other hand, is built with a focus on hardcore utility without sacrificing comfort. It offers a significant leap in towing and payload capabilities compared to light-duty trucks. With a base engine that produces 385 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, and an available 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine that boosts those figures to 475 hp and an astonishing 1,050 lb-ft of torque, the F-250 is designed for heavy lifting. This power translates to a maximum towing capacity that can exceed 36,000 pounds with a gooseneck setup and a payload capacity that extends to 4,060 pounds in certain configurations. Despite its rugged utility, the F-250 also provides creature comforts, with cab configurations that range from the utilitarian to the luxurious, accommodating diverse needs and preferences. However, its considerable size can present challenges in parking, maneuverability, and everyday convenience, particularly in tight city spaces or crowded parking lots. Both trucks present compelling options in their respective segments, with the Ram 1500 offering a balanced mix of comfort, utility, and innovation, and the Ford F-250 standing out for its heavy-duty capabilities and rugged durability.

Technology ratings reflect a divide: The Ram 1500's advanced infotainment options and engine technology earn a 7 out of 10, while the Ford F-250's intuitive Sync 3 system scores a 6 out of 10. The Ram impresses with features like the 12-inch touchscreen and mild-hybrid systems, whereas the Ford focuses on functional tech like Wi-Fi hotspots and rapid heating for diesel models.

The Ram 1500 shines in safety, with a 9 out of 10 rating, thanks to its Top Safety Pick Plus accolade from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and comprehensive safety features across trims. The F-250 Super Duty scores a 5 out of 10, as its heavy-duty status exempts it from standard crash testing, and many advanced safety features are optional or trim-dependent.

The Ram 1500's balance of price, capability, and technology results in a 7 out of 10 rating. Its base Tradesman trim offers significant value, while higher trims provide luxury without compromising utility. The Ford F-250 Super Duty's focus on workhorse capability justifies its higher price point but earns a 4 out of 10 rating due to the rapid increase in costs with added features and trims.