Comparison 2023 Ram 1500 vs. F-150: Which Should You Choose?

The American roads are dominated by two heavyweights: the Ford F-Series and the Ram 1500.  While commercial sales play a significant role, retail consumers also show a strong affinity for both the Ram 1500 and Ford F-150 pickup trucks.

And what's not to love about these impressive light-duty pickups? The Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 offer an abundance of configurations, allowing you to create a truck tailored precisely to your preferences. Both trucks offer a diverse lineup of engines, making them ideal for handling medium-sized trailers with ease.

Despite their similarities, each brand manages to carve its own niche - RAM models offer more technology and storage features, while Ford focuses solely on towing and hauling capacity. The following Ford F-150 vs. Ram 1500 comparison is here to lend a hand in your research and make sure you find the perfect match for your needs.

How much is a Ram 1500? 

In the realm of 2023 pickups, the Ram 1500 proudly boasts a price range starting from $37,905 to $85,050. It's important to highlight that the comparison is about the current-generation Ram 1500, which first made its debut for the 2019 model year. While the latest model shines on the market, RAM still offers its previous-generation full-size truck under the name Ram 1500 Classic.

RAMs offer more trims, as you choose a separate trim to access most packages (with some exceptions). This straightforward approach means you have an even greater selection of trims to choose from with the RAM lineup. Their lineup includes the Tradesman, Tradesman HFE (High Fuel Efficiency), Big Horn (known as Lone Star in Texas), Laramie, Rebel, Limited Longhorn, Limited, and TRX. Among them, the Ram 1500 TRX stands out as a high-end off-road truck, purpose-built to rival Ford's F-150 Raptor. 

How much is a Ford F-150?

If you’re eyeing the 2023 Ford F-150, you’ll discover a price range starting from $33,695 to $76,775, excluding the destination charge. The destination fee or freight delivery charge can range between $995 and $4,000. The all-electric 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning comes at a slightly higher price and can range between $49,995 for the PRO, to $91,995 for the Platinum version. Excluding again the destination charge and any federal or state rebates. 

Ford offers again an array of enticing trim levels for the F-150, including the XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, Limited, Tremor, and Raptor. The F-150 Raptor is an incredible off-road truck. If you’re seeking a more budget-friendly option with off-road prowess, you should opt in for the Tremor. Both Tremor and Raptor come with standard 4-wheel drive (4WD). With other F-150 models, you can choose between 2-wheel drive (2WD) and 4WD (or 4x4).

For eco-conscious drivers, the battery-electric F-150 Lightning comes exclusively with 4WD. It is available in PRO, XLT, Lariat, and Platinum trims, offering a sustainable and powerful alternative for those who value eco-friendliness without compromising on performance. 

How reliable is the Ram 1500?

The Ram 1500 scores a great 8.4/10 expert rating on Edmunds, making it their highest-rated full-size pickup trucks for the past decade. The Ram 1500’s reliability is also backed by a 8.0/10 rating from CarBuzz. RAM offers several warranty options to ensure the vehicle's reliability. A new Ram 1500 comes with a standard 3-year/36,000-mile basic limited warranty that provides bumper-to-bumper coverage for most components of the truck. 

There is also a powertrain warranty that can last for 5-years/100,000 miles. This warranty is particularly valuable as it covers the cost of all parts and labor needed to repair a covered powertrain component. For diesel-powered Ram vehicles, the length of the powertrain warranty extends to 5-years/100,000 miles. Ram also offers extended warranty plans, known as Mopar Vehicle Protection Plans, which can last up to 8-years/150,000 miles for new vehicles and 5-years/unlimited miles for used trucks. The cost of a Ram extended warranty ranges from $1,900 to $4,100, depending on the specific plan and dealership.

How reliable is the Ford F-150? 

Ford's F-150 is known for its reliability and this is supported by the warranty coverage that Ford provides. The F-150 scores an impressive 86 on J.D. Power’s reliability score, awarding it the title of  the second best large light duty pickup for 2023. The truck comes with a standard warranty for 3-years/36,000 miles. This includes bumper-to-bumper coverage. The powertrain warranty lasts for 5-years/60,000 miles.

For those opting for a Ford F-150 equipped with an optional diesel engine, the engine warranty coverage extends to five years. It's worth noting that Ford earned a 4.2 out of 5.0 in a 2023 automaker warranty study, indicating a high level of reliability.

They also offer corrosion coverage that runs for five years, and roadside assistance for five years or 60,000 miles. You can get extended warranties for certain vehicles, too.

How does the Ram 1500 perform?

When it comes to the Ram 1500, consumers have a lot of engine choices to play with. You can choose between a 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine with eTorque, the 5.7L V8 HEMI, and a 6.2L supercharged HEMI V8. For those seeking ultimate power, the Ram 1500 TRX stands alone with its supercharged V8 engine.

The eTorque system, featuring regenerative braking and automatic engine stop/start, adds value to the driving experience without any extra charge. Regular-strength Ram engines deliver horsepower ranging from 305 to 395 hp and torque from 273 to 410 pound-feet. The TRX's supercharged V8 takes the lead, pumping out an impressive 702 hp and 650 pound-feet of torque. 

The Ram 1500 lineup uses 8-speed automatic transmissions across the board. For four-wheel-drive models, you can choose between a part-time system or an upgraded version with an automatic 4WD mode. Meanwhile, the TRX stands out with its full-time 4WD system, accompanied by a heavily modified suspension and all-terrain tires.

Fuel efficiency varies across the lineup. Diesel Ram 1500s boast the highest Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) combined ratings at 24 mpg (miles per gallon), while gasoline-engine models rate from 17-22 mpg. The TRX, being a high-performance truck, falls outside the norm with a 12-mpg-combined rating. Keep in mind that the EPA bases these ratings on trucks equipped with the base axle ratio and all-season tires, so your actual mileage may vary if you opt for different rear gears or tires.

How does the Ford F-150 perform? 

The Ford F-150 provides you with an impressive lineup of powertrains. You can find three gasoline-fueled V6 engines (XL, XLT, Lariat), two of which are turbocharged, along with a hybrid V6 with an integrated electric motor in its transmission, and a gasoline V8. For those seeking a sustainable option, the battery-electric F-150 Lightning comes with dual electric motors and offers a choice between standard- or extended-range battery packs.

The performance output varies from 290 to 450 horsepower and 265 to 510 pound-feet of torque among the conventional engines, all equipped with a standard 10-speed automatic transmission. Ford F-150s with four-wheel drive features selectable terrain modes for enhanced versatility.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the 2023 F-150 models vary in their combined EPA ratings between 12-25 mpg, depending on their configurations. EPA's ratings are based on each trim level's standard rear axle ratio, which may differ for towing-oriented trucks, affecting efficiency and boosting pulling power. 

As for the all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning, you can expect a powerful performance, with output ranging from 462 to 580 horsepower and an impressive torque of 775 pound-feet across all versions. With an EPA range estimated at 230 to 320 miles, depending on the chosen trim and battery pack, the Lightning offers a promising electric driving experience.

How comfortable is the Ram 1500? 

The Ram 1500 is renowned for its top-tier comfort and quality. It offers an upscale interior that exudes a touch of class rarely found in pickup trucks.

• Interior space: The cabin is spacious, providing more than enough room for both front and rear passengers. The truck can comfortably seat up to five people, and the rear seats are particularly lauded for their extra comfort. The base version of the Ram 1500 comes with a 5-inch touch screen display.

• Quality: The interior design uses quality materials throughout, giving it an upscale feel. It's clear that Ram has made the effort to create an environment that's both luxurious and durable.

• Features: The Ram 1500 is loaded with features designed to enhance your driving experience. It includes a range of driver-assistance technologies, such as blind-spot and cross-path detection and trailer brake-controller. 

How comfortable is the Ford F-150?

The Ford F-150 is all about comfort and quality. Here's a comprehensive look at its features:

• Interior space: The Ford F-150 offers a spacious cabin that caters to all passengers, with ample legroom and headroom. Depending on the model, the F-150 can fit up to five or six people. The SuperCrew cab style is particularly praised for its generous space, making it a great truck for short commutes and long trips.

• Quality: The cabin exudes you a sense of quality. It's filled with premium touches and high-quality materials, creating a luxurious atmosphere. The seats are supportive and can be equipped with options such as heating, cooling, and massage functions, making every drive a pleasure.

• Features: The F-150 is packed with modern features like a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, rear view camera with dynamic hitch assist, and automatic emergency braking are also available.

What is the cargo capacity of the Ram 1500? 

The Ram 1500 will provide you with a generous cargo capacity that differs depending on the bed size of the model. You can choose between a 5-ft-7-inch, or a 6-ft-4-inch bed. The cargo volume for the 5-ft-7-inch bed is about 53.9 cubic feet. The larger 6-ft-4-inch bed provides a larger cargo volume of around 61.5 to 67.4 cubic feet. The Ram 1500 also features a class-exclusive RamBox® Cargo Management System. This system includes versatile, weatherproof, lockable, illuminated, and drainable storage bins built into the side rails of the truck bed.

What is the cargo capacity of the Ford F-150?

The Ford F-150 also offers a few different bed lengths that can be paired with different cab configurations. The F-150 is available with a 5.5-ft, 6.5-ft, or 8-ft bed. For the 5.5-foot bed, the cargo box volume is around 52.8 cubic feet. The 6.5-ft and 8-ft beds offer larger cargo volumes between 62,3 and 77.4 cubic feet. 

There are also clever interior storage solutions for the F-150. For example, the available folding rear seats provide extra storage space in the cabin. There's also a large center console that can accommodate laptops and other larger items.

What is the Ram 1500’s towing capacity?

The 2023 Ram 1500, when outfitted with the available 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine with eTorque, boasts a towing capacity of up to 12,750 pounds. This high towing capacity makes it a powerful and versatile vehicle for various heavy-duty tasks and adventures.

What is the Ford F-150’s towing capacity?

The towing capacity of the Ford F-150 differs depending on the engine and configuration you choose at the end. The F-150s with the 3.5L EcoBoost V-6 engine have a towing capacity between 11,000 pounds to 14,000 pounds. But that depends on if the F-150 is properly equipped with the Max Trailer Tow Package. The base engine for lower-level trim levels, a 3.3L Ti-VCT V6, takes your Ford F-150 towing capacity to a maximum of 8,200 pounds. Meanwhile, the 5.0L TI-VCT V8 offers a 13,000-pound max. towing capacity. The Turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 can tow at a 14,000-pound max.

The 2023 Ram 1500 stands out as a versatile and well-rounded light-duty truck, offering a combination of power, efficiency, and comfort. Their new lineup has got you covered with an amazing variety of engines to choose from, like the beastly Ram 1500 TRX and its supercharged V8 engine. It offers top-tier comfort and quality, featuring an upscale interior and a plethora of driver-assistance technologies. The Ram 1500's cargo space is generous, with the option of a class-exclusive RamBox® Cargo Management System for enhanced storage. The Ram 1500's reliable warranty options provide added peace of mind to truck buyers.

The 2023 Ford F-150 is a real champ in the light-duty truck game. It strikes an awesome balance with its performance, fuel efficiency, and tons of modern features. With an impressive array of powertrains, including the all-electric F-150 Lightning, Ford caters to various drivers' preferences. The F-150's interior prioritizes comfort and quality, providing a luxurious atmosphere and lots of amenities. It also offers a range of safety features, enhancing the overall driving experience. With multiple cab styles and bed lengths, the F-150 offers great flexibility for every driver. Its towing capacity, especially with the Turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost® V6, allows for confident hauling tasks.