F-150 vs. F-250 Super Duty: An In-Depth Comparison

Two of our most frequently asked questions are "What's the difference between the F-150 and F-250?" and "Which one is best for me?” The right Ford Super Duty model for you is the one that meets all your needs. The main difference between the F-150 and F-250 Super Duties is that the former is a light-duty truck that weighs only half a ton, while the latter is a heavy-duty truck that weighs three-quarters of a ton. 

The F-250's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) exceeds 8,500 pounds, while the F-150's GVWR is well below that. The F-150 is a versatile truck that you can use for work and personal use. The F-250, on the other hand, is a work-only super truck. Its impressive towing and hauling capabilities and size make it impossible to drive around town or park anywhere. Here's a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision. 

Key Differences You Need To Know

Ford's F-Series is the most popular, sought-after, and powerful full-size truck in the United States and has been for half a century. All models get the job done like no other truck, so it's not surprising that for many, their Ford F-Series trucks end up becoming an irreplaceable part of their lives. If you want to be part of that demographic, here are some key differences between the Ford F-150 and F-250 so you can choose the one that best fits your lifestyle.

Engine Performance: Power Under the Hood

The Ford F-150 offers six different engine options. A 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 comes standard in the base trim, followed by a 5.0-liter V-8, a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6, and a supercharged 5.3-liter V-8. For the Raptor trim, you can choose either a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 or a supercharged 5.3-liter V-8. Here are some specifications for each engine: 

• 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6: 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque 
• 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6: 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque
• 5.0-liter V-8: 400 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque 
• 3.5-liter PowerBoost V-6: 430 horsepower and 580 lb-ft of torque 
• 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6: 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque 
• 5.2-liter V-8: 720 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque

The Ford F-250 is available with three different V-8 engines. The base engine is a 6.8-liter V-8, followed by a 7.3-liter gas V-8, and a 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine. Here are the specs for each:

• 6.8-liter V-8: 405 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque 
• 7.3-liter gasoline V-8: 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque 
• 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel V-8:475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque on standard-output models and 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque on high-output models 

Both Super Duties use a 10-speed transmission.

Towing and Payload Capabilities: Heavy Lifting Champions

Both the F-150 and F-250 are known for their impressive towing and hauling capabilities, but side by side, the F-250 is the clear winner. The F-150 can tow a maximum of 13,500 pounds as a two-wheel drive (2WD) crew cab with a 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost engine and long bed. The 2.6-liter EcoBoost V-6 can tow up to 8,400 pounds, while the 3.5-liter PowerBoost can tow up to 11,200 pounds. The 5.0-liter V-8 can tow up to 12,900 pounds and the Raptor up to 8,200 pounds. Payload ratings range from 1,755 pounds to 2,445 pounds.

The F-250’s Power Stroke engine has an impressive 23,000-pound towing capacity for a 2WD single cab. The four-wheel-drive crew cab with a 6.8-liter engine and 8-foot bed has the lowest towing capacity at 13,800 pounds. Payload capacities range from 3,793 pounds to 1,429 pounds. 

Interior Comfort and Technology

The F-150 and the F-250 have similar interior and technology features. Their differences have more to do with size, engine, and towing capability. As the go-to truck in America, you can expect both models’ interiors to be as comfortable as they are intuitive. The cab is spacious, and depending on the trim level, you can convert it into a mobile workspace or a comfortable bed. Expect high-quality materials and refined finishes, even on base models. When it comes to technology, both trucks use the Ford suite, so you don't have to worry about staying connected or accessing the latest software.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance Technology

In addition to the standard safety features, every F-150 and F-250 comes with advanced driver-assistance features that make working, hauling, and towing a breeze. These features can help you monitor your load, park, change lanes, and avoid accidents. Note that some of these features come standard, while others are available for purchase. 

The Right Truck for Your Needs: Case Scenarios

Here are some scenarios to help you decide which model is right for you:

• Everyday driving and light duty: If you want a light-duty Ford truck for driving around town and towing the family camper, you'll want the Ford F-150.
• Heavy-duty work and commercial use: If you need a full-size truck to haul and tow heavy equipment frequently, choose the F-250. 
• Recreation and off-road adventure: If you need a versatile yet rugged truck that can handle any terrain and carry all your cargo, then the F-150 is for you. 

Test-drive the Ford F-Series at Stivers Ford South

At Stivers Ford South in Union City, Georgia, we have the entire Ford F-Series lineup, so whether you need a light- or heavy-duty truck, you'll find it here. Contact us today and schedule a test drive to find your next truck. 

Image Credit to Deyarman Ford