Used Ram 2500 vs. Ford F-250

Choosing between a pre-owned Ram 2500 and a Ford F-250 Super Duty comes down to how you plan to use your vehicle. Both trucks represent the gold standard in three-quarter-ton heavy-duty capability, whether you need a dedicated workhorse for hauling heavy equipment or a lifted daily driver built to tackle Mississippi off-road trails.

At Custom Trucks Concepts in Hattiesburg, MS, we specialize in high-quality pre-owned trucks and custom off-road builds. Buyers across Pine Belt communities like Laurel, Petal, and Ellisville regularly compare these two heavy-duty powerhouses on our lot. To help you choose the right model, here is a detailed breakdown of how a used Ram 2500 compares to a used Ford F-250 in power, ride quality, towing capability, and interior features.

Engine Options and Performance: Power Meets Proven Reliability

When evaluating heavy-duty performance, engine lineup and power delivery are top priorities. Both Ram and Ford offer proven gas and diesel powertrains, but their performance characteristics differ significantly.

Powertrain Breakdown

1. Ram 2500 Gas Engine: Most late-model Ram 2500 gas trucks feature the 6.4L HEMI V8 engine, producing 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission.
2. Ram 2500 Diesel Engine: The legendary 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 delivers up to 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque. Renowned for long-term endurance, the inline-six Cummins engine provides smooth low-end torque perfect for heavy towing.
3. Ford F-250 Gas Engines: Recent Ford F-250 models feature either a 6.2L V8, a 6.8L V8, or the massive 7.3L "Godzilla" V8 engine. The 7.3L V8 generates 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, mated to Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission.
4. Ford F-250 Diesel Engine: The 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel produces between 475 to 500 horsepower and up to 1,050 lb-ft of torque in high-output configurations, delivering swift acceleration under heavy loads.

If you prioritize raw horsepower and snappy transmission shifting, Ford's 10-speed paired with the Power Stroke or 7.3L gas engine delivers immediate feedback. However, if long-term diesel durability, simple maintenance access, and steady low-rpm torque are priorities, the Cummins-powered Ram 2500 remains a top choice for truck enthusiasts.

Suspension and Ride Quality: Leaf Springs vs. Coil Springs

Ride quality is one of the distinct differences between these two heavy-duty trucks, particularly when driving unloaded on highway commutes or back roads around Forrest and Perry counties.

Rear Suspension Setup

1. Ram 2500 Rear Coil Suspension: Unlike traditional leaf-spring setups, modern Ram 2500 trucks come standard with a five-link coil rear suspension (with optional factory rear air suspension). This setup absorbs road bumps and pavement expansion joints effectively, offering a smoother, SUV-like highway ride.
2. Ford F-250 Leaf Spring Setup: The F-250 utilizes classic rear leaf springs. While leaf springs provide structural rigidity under heavy payload conditions, they tend to create a firmer, bouncier ride when the truck bed is empty.

For daily driving or long highway trips across South Mississippi, a used Ram 2500 provides superior unladen comfort. If your primary goal is maximizing bed payload without suspension sag, the Ford F-250 offers a traditional, stiff heavy-duty setup.

Towing, Payload, and Hauling Capabilities

Both three-quarter-ton trucks handle substantial trailer loads, boat haulers, and work equipment easily.

While the Ford F-250 holds a slight edge in maximum payload rating and raw diesel towing figures on paper, practical real-world towing performance between the two is exceptionally close. Both trucks handle heavy trailers safely and confidently.

Interior Comfort, Tech, and Customization Potential

Interior design and tech usability play major roles in choosing a pre-owned truck.

Cabin Features and Trim Levels

1. Ram 2500 Interior: Ram leads the class in cabin luxury across higher trims like the Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited. Premium leather seating, real wood accents, and optional 12-inch vertical Uconnect touchscreens make the Ram 2500 cabin feel refined and quiet.
2. Ford F-250 Interior: The F-250 interior emphasizes practical utility and durable materials. Trims like the XLT, Lariat, and King Ranch feature Ford's SYNC infotainment systems, spacious center consoles, and functional work surfaces.

Off-Road Capability and Custom Upgrade

Both trucks serve as ideal platforms for custom suspension lifts, upgraded wheel-and-tire packages, and off-road protection.

1. The Ram 2500 Power Wagon trim offers front and rear locking differentials, front disconnect sway bars, and a factory winch setup.
2. The Ford F-250 Tremor Off-Road Package includes 35-inch all-terrain tires, trail control modes, and rock-crawl settings.

When customizing either vehicle with aftermarket suspension packages, heavy-duty bumpers, or custom lighting, both platforms accommodate modifications easily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which truck is better for daily commuting, the Ram 2500 or Ford F-250?

Due to its five-link rear coil spring suspension, the Ram 2500 generally delivers a smoother, more comfortable ride when the bed is empty, making it preferred by drivers who commute regularly.

Is the Cummins diesel engine better than the Power Stroke diesel engine?

Both engines are durable and capable. The 6.7L Cummins I6 in the Ram 2500 is known for simplicity, long-term reliability, and low-end pulling torque. The 6.7L Power Stroke V8 in the Ford F-250 delivers higher overall horsepower ratings and faster acceleration.

Can I install a suspension lift kit on both a used Ram 2500 and Ford F-250?

Yes. Both heavy-duty trucks feature solid front axles, making them ideal candidates for suspension lift kits, leveling kits, and larger off-road tires.

Find Your Next Heavy-Duty Truck in Hattiesburg, MS

Whether you prefer the smooth ride and cabin refinement of a pre-owned Ram 2500 or the high-output power and towing capacity of a pre-owned Ford F-250, Custom Trucks Concepts in Hattiesburg, MS has you covered. Our team helps drivers across Mississippi find the right vehicle and outfit it to meet their exact needs.

Ready to take the next step? You can explore our pre-owned truck inventory to view available models, or contact our truck customization team to discuss custom lifts, wheels, and performance accessories. Visit our showroom in Hattiesburg today to test drive your next heavy-duty pickup.