Choosing between the 2021 Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 isn’t going to be easy. These all-American trucks have a lot in common, including capable powertrains and luxurious cabins but you can learn more about each full-size truck by checking out our comparison guide.
Power and Performance: 2021 Ford F-150
With its incredible engine options, the F-150 takes a strong lead. Ford’s full-size truck offers a wider range of performance options, such as its thrifty hybrid powertrain or tow-friendly diesel V6. Choose from six engine options:
- Standard 3.3L V6 (290 horsepower, 265 lb-ft of torque)
- Optional turbocharged 2.7L V6 (325 hp, 400 lb-ft)
- Optional 5.0L V8 (400 hp, 410 lb-ft)
- Optional turbo 3.0L diesel V6 (250 hp, 440 lb-ft)
- Optional turbo 3.5L V6 (400 hp, 500 lb-ft)
- Optional hybrid powertrain, with turbo 3.5L V6 and battery-powered electric motor (430 hp, 570 lb-ft)
Every F-150 engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This Ford truck comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but four-wheel drive is optional for every powertrain.
The 2021 Ram 1500 doesn’t give you quite as many options, it does offer incredible power. There are four engine options:
- Standard 3.6L V6 (305 hp, 269 lb-ft)
- Optional 5.7L V8 (395 hp, 410 lb-ft)
- Optional turbo 3.0L diesel V6 (260 hp, 480 lb-ft)
- Optional supercharged 6.2L V8 (702 hp, 650 lb-ft)
Each of these Ram engines is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which can’t quite match the fuel economy of the F-150’s 10-speed. Like the F-150 though, the Ram 1500 comes standard with rear-wheel drive and provides optional four-wheel drive.
Towing and Hauling: 2021 Ford F-150
If you’re shopping for the most capable model, you’ll find it in the F-150. Depending on configuration and equipment, Ford’s light-duty truck can tow max loads of 14,000 pounds. This new F-150 can also haul major weight — up to 3,325 pounds — so you can manage big jobs without having to make extra trips.
While the Ram 1500 is more capable than ever, it can’t quite match the F-150’s towing and hauling abilities. With the right configuration, the Ram can tow up to 12,750 pounds. Max payloads reach 2,300 pounds.
Interior Refinement: 2021 Ram 1500
Inside, Ram’s light-duty pickup truck puts its best face forward. Cabin options are spacious, and the Ram delivers more rear-seat legroom than competitors. These trucks are also known for their interior luxury, which comes via high-quality cabin materials and stylish options, like premium leather upholstery.
However, when it comes to interior luxury, the redesigned F-150 is a very close contender. It, too, offers roomy cabin options and lots of luxury features. Its upper four trim levels — the Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited — all come with leather upholstery, heated seats, and more.
Tech and Utility Features: 2021 Ford F-150
The F-150 offers innovative features you won’t find anywhere else. For example, the Pro Power Onboard system transforms the F-150 into a power generator, recharging and powering tools at remote worksites and campgrounds.
You’ll also love Ford’s new Sync 4 infotainment system, which can be optioned with a 12-inch touch-screen interface and comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Ford’s full-size pickup also comes standard with some helpful safety aids: lane departure warning and forward collision mitigation. All but the base F-150 feature blind-spot monitoring, rear automatic braking, and lane keeping assist.
The Ram 1500, on the other hand, doesn’t come standard with any driver assist features. In fact, you won’t find any driver aids until you get to the luxurious Laramie model. The Laramie and up include lane departure and forward collision mitigation.
The Ram 1500 does get brownie points for its infotainment system, which also features a 12-inch touch screen and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, Ram has yet to upgrade to the wireless versions of this smartphone technology.
Choose Your Full-Size Truck
Although the Ram 1500 puts an emphasis on style and luxury, the 2021 Ford F-150 is the ultimate light-duty pickup truck. Choose the F-150 for a longer list of engine options, greater towing potential, and cutting-edge features.