Heavy-Duty Showdown: Ford F-350 vs. Ram 3500 vs. Chevy Silverado 3500

Which Truck Leads the Pack?

When comparing the Ford F-350, Ram 3500, and Chevy Silverado 3500, it’s clear you’re looking at the toughest contenders in the heavy-duty truck world. These one-ton powerhouses are built to handle serious payloads, long hauls, and demanding worksites. But when it comes to class-leading towing capability, refined ride quality, and proven durability, the Ford F-350 continues to set the standard. Whether you’re upgrading your work truck, daily driver, or towing rig, Ford’s balance of power, comfort, and long-term reliability makes it a standout choice. Come see the winner of the heavy-duty truck lineup at Preston Ford Commercial Vehicle Center!

Ford F-350: Built Tough for a Long Time

The Ford F-350 remains a top pick for those who value capability and innovation. Featuring the legendary Power Stroke® diesel V8 and available gas engine options, the Ford F-350 can handle extreme towing with confidence. Its payload capacity and towing capabilities are best-in-class, giving it an edge over comparable models from Ram and Chevy, as seen in previous model year tests.

The Ford F-350 Lariat® and Ford F-350 Platinum® trims offer advanced safety features like Adaptive Cruise Control and BLIS®, ensuring comfort on long distances and better control of the rear end when pulling a 5th wheel. From leafsprings to rear wheels, every detail supports maximum strength. For Ford fans, this is more than just a new truck — it’s a legacy of Ford Super Duty engineering.

With torque climbing to 1,200 lb.-ft. and a refined 10-speed transmission, it’s clear why many call it the best diesel truck in America. When looking at the lineup, the new Ford F-350 always dominates comparisons.

Ram 3500: The Muscle of the Cummins® Engine

Ram trucks have carved a loyal following thanks to the Ram Cummins lineup. The Ram 3500, powered by a Cummins diesel engine, delivers incredible pulling strength and high-output torque. However, even with its diesel reputation, major issues like fuel pump, glow plugs, and coldstart problems have frustrated long-term owners.

In side-by-side reviews (Ford F-350 vs. Ram 3500), the only thing that keeps Ram in the game is its torque advantage. Still, over the long term, Ford’s durability outshines it. While Ram 2500 and Ram 1500 offer smoother rides, the Ram 3500 remains a brute force option that suits those with personal preference for the heritage of Ram trucks.

The front-end design and updated trim level interiors bring refinement, but buyers should carefully weigh the price ranges, reliability, and fuel economy before committing. When compared to Ram, Ford still wins when long-term dependability matters most.

Chevy Silverado 3500 HD: Balanced Power and Comfort

Chevrolet brings confidence to the road with the Chevy Silverado 3500 HD. This truck combines the Duramax® diesel engine with a 10-speed transmission, delivering a better ride than most Ram 3500 setups. The Chevy Silverado lineup—especially the Chevy Silverado 3500 High Country and base model trims—appeals to buyers who value stability and refinement over sheer muscle. Chevrolet Silverado trucks are renowned for their smooth handling, particularly when towing a fifth-wheel trailer or traveling long distances. However, when tested versus Chevy, the Ford F-350 consistently pulls ahead in towing capabilities and payload capacity. While the Chevy Silverado 3500’s exhaust system, cylinder head, and V8 engine deliver reliability, it doesn’t match Ford’s advanced tech or powertrain innovation.

Performance and Capability: The Numbers Tell the Story

When comparing Ford F-350 vs. Ram 3500 vs. Chevy Silverado 3500, the Ford F-350 leads in both diesel engine power and efficiency. It also offers gas engine options for those who prefer traditional fueling. Ford’s fuel tank and engine options are designed for hauling heavy loads over long distances, while the adaptive features make towing safer and easier. The Ford F-350 offers an impressive maximum towing capacity of up to 37,600 lbs. with dual rear-wheel drive and a gooseneck hitch, plus a maximum payload of 8,000 lbs. Ram’s Cummins engines offer raw power but can’t match Ford’s balance of strength and dependability. 

For anyone considering a test drive or comparing new vehicles at Preston Ford Commercial Vehicle Center, the Ford F-350 is worth a look. Whether you’re upgrading from last year’s truck or making a big purchase for your business, the Ford stands tall.

Final Verdict: Making an Informed Decision

At the end of the day, choosing between these heavy-duty trucks comes down to personal preference and how you plan to use the vehicle. The Ford F-350 offers the best combination of performance, reliability, and cutting-edge tech. The Ram 3500 packs torque and tradition, while the Chevy Silverado 3500 HD brings comfort and refinement.

For truck enthusiasts, this isn’t just about specs—it’s about finding the right choice that fits your lifestyle. If you’re hauling heavy loads, towing 5th wheels, or driving long distances, Ford’s Power Stroke® engine and iconic Super Duty design make it the best truck in its class.

Good news: whether you’re loyal to Ford, Ram, or Chevrolet, each has made strides in performance and reliability. But if you want a new truck that can do it all—from driving from jobsite to jobsite to hauling equipment—the Ford F-350 still comes out on top. Head to Preston Ford Commercial Vehicle Center to explore our Ford Super Duty lineup today!

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