2026 Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350: Which Truck Wins?
The 2026 Ram 3500 and Ford F-350 stand out in the heavy-duty truck market, offering robust performance for both demanding job sites and weekend adventures. In this Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350 comparison, our team at Auburn Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR) explores the features of each to help you decide which heavy-duty truck fits your lifestyle.
Engine Options and Powertrain Performance
The Ram 3500 offers two engine options. The base 6.4-liter V-8 produces 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, which is sufficient for most jobs. The optional 6.7-liter Cummins turbo-diesel inline-six is available in either rear- or four-wheel drive and generates 430 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft of torque. Both the gas and diesel engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Ford offers more options. The standard 6.7-liter diesel V-8 produces 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque, while a high-output version delivers 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque. The 6.8-liter V-8 produces 405 horsepower and 445 lb-ft, while the 7.3-liter V-8 generates 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft. These engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and are available in rear- or all-wheel-drive configurations.
Towing and Payload Capacity
Ford wins the numbers game here. The F-350 can tow up to 40,000 pounds, depending on configuration, while the Ram 3500 tops out at 36,610 pounds with the diesel engine. The Ford F-350 can haul up to 8,000 pounds, while the Ram 3500 has a maximum payload capacity of 7590 pounds, depending on your setup.
Ford’s tech package includes Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, and onboard scales for accurate load measurements. Ram offers trailer reverse steering control, integrated trailer brake control, and a 360-degree surround view trailer camera. Many find Ram’s towing technology more intuitive, especially in tight spots such as boat ramps.
Interior Comfort and Cabin Design
Ram offers various cab configurations, including the Mega Cab, which features the largest rear seat in its class. This is perfect for work crews or big families. The Ram 3500 has a luxurious interior, exceptional comfort, a modern design, and either a 6-foot-4-inch or an 8-foot bed. The F-350 offers 43.9 inches of front legroom and up to 43.6 inches in the rear, while the Ram 3500 offers 40.9 inches up front and 43.1 inches in the back.
Material quality varies by trim level. Ram interior features include simulated suede and leather upholstery and dual-zone automatic climate control. Ford offers 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats on the Lariat trim and above, while the Platinum trim features genuine leather upholstery and multicontour seats with massage functionality.
Fuel Efficiency and Trim Levels
Neither truck is built for substantial fuel efficiency, but both deliver respectable highway mileage for their size. The Ram diesel models average between 17 and 22 mpg on the highway when unloaded. The Ford F-350 achieves similar figures, although fuel consumption can rise with heavy towing. The Ram 3500 crew cab with an 8-foot bed offers a best-in-class 50-gallon fuel tank. This allows for longer drives between fill-ups, which is beneficial if you travel long distances or work at remote sites.
The 2026 Ram 3500 is available in five trim levels: the Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Limited, and Limited Longhorn, with MSRPs ranging between $47,785 and $75,545. The Ford offers the F-350 in five trims: the XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum. The starting prices of these trucks range from $48,270 to $81,260.
Reliability, Warranty Coverage, and Resale Value
Although both trucks are durable, they excel in different areas. Ram’s Cummins engine is noted for its longevity and reliability, especially among high-mileage users. The Ford F-350 is recognized for long-term durability and reliability in commercial settings. Both brands fetch strong resale prices. To maximize your resale value, make sure to schedule regular maintenance.
Both Ram and Ford offer a basic limited warranty of three years or 36,000 miles, as well as five-year/60,000-mile powertrain protection for the gas engines and five-year/100,000-mile coverage for the diesel options. Neither manufacturer provides complimentary scheduled maintenance. The Ford F-350 stands out among heavy-duty trucks due to its superior towing capacity and payload capabilities, but the 2026 Ram heavy-duty lineup provides a balance of power, comfort, and technology that may hold more appeal for everyday use.
Discover Your Perfect Heavy-Duty Truck at Auburn CDJR
Both trucks are solid choices, but Ram edges ahead in key areas such as interior comfort and starting price. If you’re in Auburn, California, we invite you to visit us to experience the 2026 Ram 3500 firsthand. Our friendly team will walk you through its features, help you explore your financing options, and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to schedule a test-drive to help you decide whether this heavy-duty truck fits your lifestyle.