Ram 3500 Vs. Ford F-350 Comparison
See why the Ram 3500 deserves to be your next heavy-duty truck by reading our Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350 comparison. With lower average annual ownership costs,1, 2 class-exclusive tech and driving components, and a larger available fuel tank, the Ram 3500 does most things better than the Ford F-350. Join the Jones Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Wickenburg team as we compare these hard-working pickup trucks below to see what sets the Ram 3500 apart from its competitors.
2026 Ram 3500 vs. 2026 Ford F-350 At a Glance
- The Ram 3500 truck earns higher reliability marks and comes with lower average annual repair costs than the Ford F-350, giving it an edge in long-term ownership.
- Both trucks offer strong gas and diesel powertrains, but the Ram 3500 pickup brings the high-output Cummins® option, and the unmistakable HEMI V-8 feel.
- The Ram 3500 truck provides smart efficiency advantages, including an available 50-gallon fuel tank and thoughtful engineering to keep you on the road longer between fill-ups.
- While the Ford F-350 has a slightly higher towing capacity, the Ram 3500 lineup's class-exclusive Auto-Level Rear Suspension with Bed Lowering Mode makes hitching up remarkably easier than with the competition.
- Inside, the Ram truck pushes ahead with a large 14.4-inch touchscreen, passenger display, and upscale cabin touches that outshine comparable Ford F-350 trim levels.
Ford F-350 vs. Ram 3500 Reliability
Before diving into the Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350 comparison, it's important to first look at these models' reliability ratings to help you make the best decision for your lifestyle and needs.
First, RepairPal ranks the Ram 3500 higher for reliability, thanks to the lower chance of issues popping up.1,2 You can expect lower ownership costs when choosing the Ram pickup over the competition. It has an annual average repair cost of $1,079, according to RepairPal.1
Meanwhile, the Ford F-350 has an average annual repair cost of $1,295,2 which is higher than the Ram 3500. The Ram model in our 2026 Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350 comparison takes a strong lead right out of the gate, providing the more reliable truck with an estimated $216 in repair savings each year.
Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350 Specs
The Ram 3500 vs. F-350 performance is a fairly even playing field. Both models boast a standard gasoline V-8, and while the Ford F-350 does have a 0.4-liter-larger gas engine, it makes the same amount of horsepower as the Ram 1500. Plus, it doesn't make the iconic rumble that only a HEMI V-8's uniquely shaped combustion chambers can achieve.
Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350 diesel specs are a similar story. The Ram pickup offers the high-output 6.7-liter Cummins® turbo-diesel powertrain, the most powerful version of the diesel selection from 2026. The F-350 provides an available 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbo-diesel and an available high-output 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbo-diesel powertrain.
We'd love to compare Ram 3500 to Ford F-350 fuel economy ratings and are confident that the Ram 3500 would put the Ford F-350 in its place, but the EPA does not provide official MPG ratings for the heavy-duty truck segment. However, intelligent engine design like variable cam timing and an available 50-gallon fuel tank, the largest available fuel tank in its class,3 make the Ram 3500 a clear choice for long-haul excellence.
Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350 Towing Capabilities
If you've been on the edge of your seat waiting to hear the winner of the Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350 towing capability showdown, the anticipation is over. Truth be told, these models are extremely comparable in the hauling department, but we still give the win to the Ram 3500 – you'll understand why by the end of this section!
While the towing capacities of the 2026 Ram 3500 and Ford F-350 will vary depending on how you configure them, they have similar maximum values. The Ram 3500 caps out at 36,610 pounds4 with the available Cummins® turbo-diesel, whereas the F-350 gives you a bit more potential with its high-output turbo-diesel: 40,000 pounds.4 On paper, it looks like a clear win for the F-350 – it offers the higher towing capacity, after all. However, when you dig a bit deeper, you'll see why the Ram 3500 is still the better option for towing.
Ram engineers designed a class-exclusive Auto-Level Rear Suspension with Bed Lowering Mode.3 This advanced design, available for the 2026 lineup, automatically brings the rear suspension to its lowest point, making hooking up a trailer to the Ram 3500 easier than it is with just about any other heavy-duty pickup on the market.
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| 2026 Ram 3500 | 2026 Ford F-350 | |
|---|---|---|
| Average Annual Repair Cost | $1,0791 | $1,2952 |
| Standard Engine | 6.4L HEMI V-8 | 6.8L Gas V-8 |
| Standard Horsepower | 405 | 405 |
| Available Diesel Engine Options | H.O. 6.7L Cummins® turbo-diesel I-6 |
|
| Max. Towing Capacity | 36,610 lbs4 | 40,000 lbs4 |
| Available Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 gal (Largest in Class)3 | 48 gal |
| Drivetrain Options | RWD or 4WD | RWD or 4WD |
| Cab Configurations |
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| Bed Lengths |
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| Standard Wheel Size | 18 in | 18 in |
| Standard Alternator Current | 220 amp | 160 amp |
| Available Dual Alternator Current | 480 amp | 410 amp |
| Max. Interior Cargo Volume | 60.7 cu ft | 53.4 cu ft |
| Trim Levels |
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Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350 Interior Amenities
Comparing the Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350 capabilities is perhaps the best way to determine which one will be your next truck, as you'll need it to be a capable machine. However, you also want your truck to be comfortable, especially when your use case involves hours of driving between job sites.
As a demonstration, let's look at what's available. In both models, available features include expansive productivity screens, 12-inch digital gauge clusters, premium sound systems, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and remote engine start.
However, there are some distinct advantages in the Ram 3500 compared to the Ford F-350, once again. The Ram model comes with an available largest-in-class 14.4-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation, as well as a segment-first 10.25-inch passenger display.3 Available storage bins behind the front row and standard amenities, such as a unique clean-air system and push-button start, in the Ram 3500 blaze new trails for what's possible.
Plus, while reviewing the Ram 3500 interior, the third-party experts at Car and Driver said, "The Ram [3500] has the best interior in the segment with luxury-car-level detailing, extreme comfort, and a clean, modern design, while the highest trim levels offer premium materials."5 As the Ford F-350 is indeed in the same segment, the winner of the Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350 comfort comparison is obvious.
Discover the 2026 Ram 3500 at Jones CDJR Wickenburg
As your premier Ram dealer in Wickenburg, AZ, we're prepared to show you all that makes the Ram 3500 victorious over the Ford F-350. An easier-to-access towing capacity, dozens of upgrades in standard and available convenience technology, and fantastic interior space all put the Ram 3500 full-size pickup head-and-shoulders above the Ford F-350.
Visit our showroom to learn how you can custom-order a Ram 3500. Our expert sales team can also apply any of our revolving lease deals to your transaction to help you take home the truck that turns all heads your way and doesn't settle for less.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the payload of the F-350 vs. Ram 3500?
Ford F-350 vs. Ram 3500 payload capacity varies significantly depending on how you configure the truck, and while their maximum ratings are similar, certain models of the Ram 3500 can accommodate more payload than the Ford F-150 and vice versa. However, with a maximum payload capacity of 7,590 pounds,6 the 2026 Ram 3500 is massively capable.
What engine options are available for the Ram 3500 and Ford F-350?
Ram 3500 vs. Ford F-350 engine options consist of a very similar lineup, including a standard gas V-8 and turbo-diesel options. For the new Ram 3500, you can get a standard 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 with 410 horsepower or a high-output 6.7-liter Cummins® turbo-diesel inline-six powertrain – slimming the options by one from 2024 to give you the strongest diesel right away.
Which truck offers better interior comfort and amenities?
Both the Ford F-350 and Ram 3500 offer similar interior comfort features and amenities, though the Ram 3500 now offers a 14.4-inch central screen and 10.25-inch passenger display. We'll let third-party experts from Car and Driver take it from here: "The Ram [3500] has the best interior in the segment with luxury-car-level detailing, extreme comfort, and a clean, modern design."5
Read More About Other Ram Models
1Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/dodge/ram-3500.
2Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/ford/f-350-super-duty.
3Class based on 350/3500 pickups and latest available competitive information.
4When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
5Reference to this third-party review/claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For more details, please visit https://www.caranddriver.com/ram/2500-3500.
6When properly equipped. Max payload ratings shown for base configuration. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload weights. Contact dealer for details.