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1 2 3 4 Lets Start a Truck War: RAM 1500 EcoDiesel vs Ford F150 EcoBoost

8K views 6 replies 3 participants last post by  L.O.A. 
#1 ·
As of now consumers will finally have the choice to weigh benefits of a downsized turbo mill versus a similar sized diesel engine in half ton pickup trucks, a segment traditionally dominated by great 8's. The F150 shows up to play with a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 petrol plant, while RAM counters with a 3.0L V6 derived from VM Motori a FIAT subsidiary.




First things first, cost.

A F150 SuperCrew begins at $32,010, plus $2,095 for a twin turbo 6 plus $1,195 destination charge and you're looking at a total of $35,300 before taxes and tack on's.

A RAM 1500 Crew Cab starts at $33,870 plus $2,850 to replace the HEMI with the 3.0L EcoDiesel plus $1,195 for destination and you're left with a total of $37,915 before taxes and tack on's.

Second things second, what does it all mean? Lets go straight for the juggular, the nitty gritty of what most truck buyers are chasing. Capability.

F150 routs its power through a 6 speed auto, the RAM EcoDiesel churns its power through an 8 speed auto. In terms of horsepower there is no contest the F150 out punches the RAM EcoDiesels 240hp with 365hp on tap. BUT, horsepower doesnt move loads by itself, torque plays a big part. The EcoDiesel and the EcoBoost are tied at 420 lb-fts apiece. Towing though is the bread and butter. The F150 EcoBoost will lug 11,300 lbs, while the EcoDiesel counters with 9,200 lbs.

What about fuel economy, likely to be the measuring stick between The EcoBoost and EcoDiesel. The EcoBoost F150 can be frugal, with feather feet it will pull down roughly 23 mpgs, but if you drive her with purpose you're looking at something in the mid teens. The EcoDiesel does not have an EPA rating yet, however numerous pre production testers given to the auto press have been capable of pulling down 28 mpg consistently under normal driving. The caveat however is the premium you will pay at the pump, diesel will run you on average 60 cents more per gallon, the gap is greater in the winter month when diesel fuel stock is diverted into home heating oil. While it may be more expensive to fill up the RAM it will happen less often. Preliminary testing has the EcoDiesel around 730 miles per tank (based on 28 mpg) while the F150 will have you at the pump every 598 miles (based on 23 mpg).

45% of F150s currently sold are EcoBoost 6's, can the RAM EcoDiesel match that number? Frankly I doubt it as the RAM gives up a bit much in terms of capability hunting economy, I'd say a 15% take rate is fair for overall RAM sales.

If you intend to tow heavily I would highly recommend staying away from the RAM 1500 EcoDiesel, not only do you sacrifice towing and payload but the RAMs rear suspension is coil over vs the F150s leaf springs. If you're seeking comfort by all means coil overs are much better, but when it comes to towing and work leaf springs take the cake every day.

Anyways, now the decision is up to you!
 
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