When you’re shopping for a heavy-duty truck, the debate almost always comes down to two powerhouses: the Ram 2500 and the Ford F-250. Both are tough, capable, and designed to handle whatever life (or work) throws your way. But when you dig a little deeper, it’s easy to see why so many Texans trust the Ford Super Duty F-250, especially when they get it from Tomball Ford, where service, value, and expertise come standard.
Let’s break down how these two full-size pickup trucks compare from their diesel engines to towing capacity, payload, trim levels, and everything in between.
Power and Performance: The Muscle That Matters
Both trucks mean business, but the Ford F-250 brings serious muscle with its available 6.7L Power Stroke turbo diesel engine, one of the most respected powerplants in the automotive world. The newest Power Stroke delivers up to 1,200 lb-ft of torque, putting Ford right at the top of the heavy-duty truck mountain. Pair that with a strong drivetrain and Ford’s durable V8 engine options, and you’ve got a truck that’s just as confident pulling a trailer as it is tackling tough terrain.
Meanwhile, the Ram 2500 comes equipped with the dependable 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, another strong contender. It’s known for its low-end torque and steady power delivery. However, Ford’s Power Stroke edges ahead in both power and refinement, it feels smoother and more responsive, especially when towing heavy loads or climbing steep grades.
And if you’re comparing gas engines, Ford’s 7.3L Godzilla V8 offers incredible versatility, delivering impressive horsepower without sacrificing durability. It’s the kind of balance that makes the Ford F-250 feel ready for anything.
Towing Capacity and Payload: Ford Leads the Pack
When it comes to sheer towing capacity, Ford has always been the name to beat. Properly equipped, the F-250 can tow up to 22,000 pounds with the Power Stroke turbo diesel engine, that’s enough to pull your camper, boat, or trailer with confidence.
The Ram 2500 puts up a good fight, maxing out at around 20,000 pounds, depending on configuration. It’s still plenty capable, but the Ford’s advanced trailer tech and class-leading torque give it an edge where it counts.
Payload capacity tells a similar story. The Ford truck can handle more weight in the bed, over 4,200 pounds, while maintaining impressive ride quality and control. If it’s gravel for the jobsite or gear for the ranch, the F-250 is built to move it.
Ride and Comfort: Built Strong, Rides Smooth
Ford has refined the way heavy-duty trucks handle. The F-250’s suspension setup and chassis are designed for both capability and comfort, giving you a confident ride even on rough backroads or jobsite terrain.
The Ram truck lineup uses coil springs for a smoother ride when unloaded, but that comfort can come at the expense of handling under heavier payloads. Ford manages to deliver both: rock-solid stability when working hard, and a surprisingly comfortable cabin for long drives.
At Tomball Ford, many customers mention how composed and quiet the F-250 feels on the highway, a true mark of Ford engineering.
Interior and Technology: Tough Meets Tech
Step inside a Ford F-250 Lariat or XLT, and you’ll quickly realize this isn’t just a work truck, it’s a modern command center. Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system with a large touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto makes every drive smarter and more connected. You can even get available digital displays that give your cabin a cutting-edge look.
The Ram 2500’s Laramie and Tradesman trims offer a similar layout, and the available 12-inch touchscreen looks great. Still, Ford’s tech feels more intuitive, and its interior materials are built to last, perfect for anyone who wants durability with a touch of luxury.
If you’re in a crew cab for family trips or using your truck for work, Ford’s attention to comfort and function really stands out.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Neither of these heavy-duty trucks are winning eco-car awards, but they’re impressively efficient for their size. Owners report around 14–18 mpg for the diesel engine versions, depending on driving habits and loads.
In real-world driving, the Ford F-250’s Power Stroke tends to be slightly more efficient than Ram’s Cummins, thanks to advanced engine management and refined transmission tuning. Ford also gives you multiple driving modes to help improve fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
And while EPA ratings don’t cover these large pickup trucks, Ford’s engineers have clearly worked to strike a balance between power and mpg.
Off-Road and Specialty Models
If you love adventure, both brands offer something special.
The Ram 2500 Power Wagon is built for off-road fun, with features like locking differentials and an integrated winch.
But Ford’s answer, the F-250 Tremor, takes things a step further. The Tremor package combines off-road suspension, all-terrain tires, and specialized driving modes that make tackling Texas trails or jobsite mud a breeze.
When you test drive the F-250 Tremor at Tomball Ford, you’ll instantly feel the confidence that comes with that Ford toughness.
Trim Levels and Options
Both trucks offer a wide range of trim levels to suit different needs:
- Ford F-250: XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited
- Ram 2500: Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Power Wagon, and Limited
The Lariat is one of the most popular choices for Tomball Ford customers because it blends premium comfort with rugged capability. And Ford’s available warranty coverage, including 5-year/100,000-mile diesel protection, gives you peace of mind long after you drive off the lot.
Pricing and Value
When it comes to pricing, both trucks start in the mid-$50,000s and climb into luxury territory depending on options. But at Tomball Ford, customers enjoy exclusive local pricing, financing offers, and service packages that make owning a new truck easier than ever.
Add in Ford’s exceptional function and long-lasting build quality, and the F-250 proves to be the smarter investment, one that holds its value and keeps performing year after year.
The Verdict: Ford F-250 Wins the Heavy-Duty Battle
In the end, the Ram 2500 vs Ford F-250 showdown isn’t much of a battle at all. Both are great, but the Ford F-250 consistently delivers more, more towing capacity, more payload, better ride quality, and unmatched technology.
If you’re ready to see why Texans love their Ford trucks, there’s only one thing left to do: visit Tomball Ford for a test drive.
Experience the Power Stroke turbo diesel engine, explore the trim levels, and discover how Ford continues to set the standard for heavy-duty pickup trucks. Because when it comes to strength, comfort, and capability, Ford doesn’t just compete. It leads.
