2021 RAM 1500 vs 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty

The 2021 RAM 1500 maintained the design reboot it received in 2019, featuring rugged exterior styling with functional embellishments. It was available in both quad and crew cab configurations, with the crew cab offering a choice between a shorter five-foot, seven-inch bed or a longer six-foot, four-inch bed. The two-door variant exclusively had the longer bed. Buyers could choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) across the configurations. The centerpiece for 2021 was the all-new TRX model, designed to capture attention and dominate off-road environments with its impressive dimensions and bold appearance, highlighted by a functional hood scoop, massive grille, and fender vents. The TRX’s crew cab configuration and the 5-foot, 7-inch box setup differentiated it further with dimensions like a 145.1-inch wheelbase and overall dimensions that stand significantly taller and wider than the standard RAM 1500, necessitating the inclusion of identifier lamps.

The RAM 1500 TRX’s aggressive exterior, equipped with 35-inch all-terrain tires and distinctive “R-A-M” badging, was complemented by an equally sophisticated interior that offered first-class comfort inspired by the Ram Rebel but with added durability and luxury. Standard premium cloth and vinyl upholstery with red accents or the option for leather and suede materials created an inviting cabin. The signature flat-bottom steering wheel with optional suede and carbon fiber, alongside a dominating 12-inch Uconnect infotainment display, highlighted the truck's interior sophistication. Unique touches included a vehicle-specific ID marker and playful Easter eggs, like the scale chart in the console storage lid.

Alternately, the 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty epitomized stately luxury with practical utility. Clad in Iconic Silver paint, our Limited test model boasted a chrome grille, polished wheels, and plush leather seats, merging luxury and functionality. Featuring power-deploying running boards and a commanding presence thanks to its high stance, entering the cabin was facilitated despite its height. Inside, occupants were met with cavernous space, high-quality materials, and a meticulous design. The trim levels—XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited—offered varying degrees of luxury, peaking with the Limited’s high-end finishes like real wood, aluminum trim, and a panoramic glass sunroof.

With options for regular, extended, and crew cab configurations, and variations between standard and long cargo beds, the F-350 catered to a broad clientele. The Limited trim in our crew cab model incorporated plush two-tone leather, extended-leather touches on key cabin surfaces, and advanced amenities like a simulated suede headliner, underscoring its luxury pickup truck credentials.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX delivered extraordinary performance derived from its 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8 engine, the same powerhouse found in FCA's SRT vehicles. This Hellcat engine generated a whopping 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque, managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission. With a 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.5 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 12.9 seconds at 108 mph, the TRX showcased impressive speed for a pickup truck. The 1500 TRX, with a towing capacity of 8,100 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,310 pounds, offered robust utility along with its performance prowess. Its fuel economy, tested by the EPA, stood at 10 mpg in the city, 14 on highways, and 12 combined, making it a thirsty beast, but one that offered exceptional performance for off-road enthusiasts.

During a comprehensive test drive from Lake Tahoe to the Wild West Motorsports Park, the TRX demonstrated impressive versatility in varied driving conditions. The truck remained composed in city traffic, handled mountain highways with incredible views, and tackled off-road challenges at the motorsports park with ease. It provided eight driving modes, including a Baja mode for off-road adventures. Whether on a dirt track, during a rock hill climb, or on a race acceleration test, the TRX consistently proved its capabilities. The truck’s significant stature came in handy off-road, especially with the Selec-Speed Control for a controlled 4-low experience and advanced launch control for quick accelerations.

Conversely, the 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty's performance was anchored by its 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8, producing 475 horsepower and a staggering 1,050 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain allowed the F-350 to average 15.4 mpg on a typical test loop and up to 16.5 mpg during highway-use heavy driving sessions. The Ford Powerstroke diesel, known for its characteristic clatter, did not emit visible smoke particulates, offering a significant amount of power. Despite potential issues with emissions as noted by the CARB, the diesel engine effectively powered the F-350's heavy-duty capabilities, especially evident during towing and off-road tests.

In a previous experience with the 2020 Super Duty, the truck excelled in hauling loaded trailers up difficult grades and proved its off-road mettle with the Tremor package, which included several off-road focused features like a suspension lift, custom dampers, and 35-inch all-terrain tires. These features allowed for better ground clearance, water-fording capabilities, and improved approach and departure angles.

Urban driving presented unique challenges with the F-350, like parking in shopping centers and navigating narrow spaces. Adaptive steering, new for 2021, helped mitigate some of these issues by adjusting the steering ratio at different speeds. However, the F-350 still required significant driver effort for steering and braking, especially in heavy traffic or tight spaces. The adaptive brake pedal system provided essential support on varying terrains, proving useful for controlling the truck's speed in mountainous regions.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX's form and function were finely tuned for both performance and everyday usability. Despite its enlarged exterior dimensions, the interior space mirrored that of the standard RAM 1500, offering ample headroom and legroom—front measurements stood at 40.9 inches for headroom and legroom, while the rear provided 39.8 and 45.2 inches respectively. The truck was laden with storage options, from the center console's large compartment to numerous smaller nooks and crannies catering to all five passengers.

Key functional features included full-length rock rails that doubled as steps and enhanced body protection, full-size spare tire, and robust LED headlights and taillights. The powered-adjustable pedals were particularly notable for enhancing driving comfort, especially for shorter drivers. Seats in the TRX Level 2 package provided a balanced feel, being neither too stiff nor overly plush, a characteristic lauded in comparisons with rival trucks from GM and Ford.

The 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty, being a heavy-duty truck, demanded more functional considerations for its cargo and interior space. The difficulty in accessing the bed was mitigated by features like the integrated tailgate step and retractable bed step, alongside the versatile BoxLink system and spray-in bedliner. The LED box lighting ensured visibility after dark, making it easier to handle cargo.

Inside, the F-350 crew cab offered vast space, comfortably accommodating five adults. The Limited trim featured power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats along with premium materials throughout the cabin. The commanding driving position made drivers feel like royalty on the road. The center console was supplemented by ample storage compartments, including dual glove boxes and door bins. Despite its imposing size, the lowered rear-seat cushion and heated outboard seats, combined with abundant legroom and under-seat storage, enhanced rear passenger comfort and convenience.

In terms of capability, the F-350 offered unparalleled power. Depending on configuration, the truck boasted a towing capacity of up to 21,200 pounds with a conventional hitch, extending to more than 35,000 pounds with a fifth wheel/gooseneck setup. Its payload capacity, also impressive, ranged from 3,893 pounds in the F-350 SRW to over 7,850 pounds in dual-rear wheel models. Comparatively, the RAM 1500 TRX's maximum towing capacity of 8,100 pounds and payload capacity of 1,310 pounds underscored the F-350's supremacy in hauling and payload capabilities.

The 2021 RAM 1500 was equipped with cutting-edge technology, featuring a 12-inch Uconnect 4C infotainment system as standard across all trims. Its customizable display allowed for convenient drag-and-drop functionality, split-screen configuration, and quick access to frequently used controls. However, the screen’s auto bright finish attracted fingerprints, and its positioning, angled towards the rear rather than the driver, deviated from a driver-centric design. Performance and Off-Road Pages offered drivers real-time vehicle data, fueling an engaging driving experience. Other features included wireless charging, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity, auxiliary, USB-A, and USB-C ports. Entertainment was robust with HD Radio, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and a 10-speaker Alpine audio system—or an optional 19-speaker Harmon Kardon setup. The 2021 model also introduced a full-color HUD and additional conveniences like remote start and keyless entry.

The Ford F-350 featured an 8-inch touchscreen running the Sync 3 infotainment system, which lagged behind competitors due to its smaller size. Expected to receive an upgrade to a 12-inch screen with Sync 4 for the 2022 model year, Sync 3 was functional yet hindered by occasional loading delays and input recognition issues. It supported smartphone integration, wireless charging, a navigation system, and FordPass Connect with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The sound system, sourced from Bang & Olufsen, provided excellent audio quality. The touchscreen facilitated advanced towing aids such as the Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera, Trailer Reverse Guidance, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist technologies—features that would benefit from a larger display. The F-350 also incorporated separate stereo and climate controls and included voice-recognition technology. Beyond infotainment, upfitter switches and a Live Drive Power Take-off system added to its technological versatility, making it well-suited for heavy-duty tasks.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX prioritized safety with over 100 safety and security features, although it lacked comprehensive safety ratings from the IIHS or NHTSA at launch. Standard safety equipment included a rear backup camera with dynamic guidelines—drivers seeking enhanced visibility could opt for the Advanced Safety Group package, which included a 360-degree view, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, automatic high beams, and emergency pedestrian braking. The Advanced Tech Group offered a digital rear-view mirror and a brake-activated high-mount stop lamp, while other ADAS features included adaptive headlights, hill-start assist, blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alert, trailer sway control, lane-departure warning, and front/rear park assistance with automatic braking. Passive safety was reinforced with auto-reverse windows and sunroof and an enhanced accident response system, which unlocked doors, activated interior lights, and cut fuel after airbag deployment.

The Ford F-350, due to its substantial weight (around 7,300 pounds) and lack of available crash-test data, relied more on its sheer mass to ensure safety. Driver-assistance features played a significant role in mitigating the truck's impact. These included adaptive cruise control (not including full-stop capabilities), forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The adaptive cruise control’s uneven performance in traffic, lane-departure warnings through steering vibrations, and mirror positioning requirements marked the F-350’s safety nuances. Sync 3’s 911 Assist feature, activated by smartphone pairing, provided a valuable safety net by contacting emergency responders post-collision if the driver had an active phone signal.