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When you’re in the market for a brand-new chassis cab, few vehicles will do besides the 2020 RAM 5500 and Ford F-550. These two are the powerhouses in their class, both featuring incredible towing capabilities, engine power and performance, and features that fit your work needs.

Let’s look at how they compare to one another:

Performance

Speaking on performance only, you’d be hard-pressed to tell the difference between the RAM 550 and the Ford F-550. Both have engines that rival each other, with the RAM getting a 6.4L HEMI V8 base engine with 429 lb-ft. of torque compared to the Ford F-550’s base 7.3L 2V DECVT V8 gas engine with 468 lb-ft. of torque. Upgrades include a turbo-diesel engine with 800 lb-ft. of torque on the RAM and a turbo-diesel with 825 lb-ft. of torque for the F-550.

The RAM 5500 comes mated to a 6-speed automatic Aisin HD transmission, while the Ford F-550 gets a 10-speed automatic with selectable drive modes. Both are designed to be highly capable of best-in-class towing.

Capability

When it comes to towing, the RAM 5500, when loaded appropriately, can tow about 11,000 pounds more than the Ford F-550 with a max capacity of just over 35,000 pounds. Other metrics for the trucks are similar. Maximum payload ratings for the 5500 and F-550 are 11,140 and 12,750 pounds, respectfully. You’ll find only a 500-pound GVWR difference between the two, with the 5500 rated at 19,000 pounds and the F-550 rated at 19,500 pounds.

Both trucks come equipped with standard or available features to add convenience and safety to any large haul. Features for the RAM 5500 include trailer tire pressure monitoring, trailer reverse guidance, and a surround-view camera. The Ford F-550 has an optional dual-wheel axle and high-capacity towing capacity to add trailering capability.

Trim Levels

The RAM 5500 comes in the following four trim levels with prices starting at just over $40,000:

• Tradesman: The base model includes a 6.4L HEMI V8 engine with an 8,000-mile oil change interval, an 18,000-pound GVW Rating, power steering, heavy-duty shock absorbers, 19.5-inch wheels, black door handles and mirrors, a 40/20/40 split-bench seat, Uconnect 3.0, a remote USB port, manual windows and locks, and push-button start. 

• SLT: The SLT adds folding and heated power trailer mirrors, cloth seats, different interior accents and finishes, a chrome grille surround, and a chrome front bumper.

• Laramie: Laramie adds onto the Tradesman and SLT with body-color fender flares, unique polished and forged aluminum wheels, leather-trimmed seats, and LED headlights and fog lamps. 
• Limited: Choose limited for luxury additions like a 12-inch touchscreen, power-adjustable heated front seats, and leather seats with wood and aluminum accents.  

The trim levels for the Ford F-550 are as follows, also starting at just over $40,000:

• XL: The base model includes a 7.3L 2V DECVT V8 Gas engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission with drive mode selection, 19.5-inch painted steel wheels, upfitter switches, FordPass Connect, platform running boards, a post-crash alert system, and automatic headlights.

• XLT: XLT adds convenient features to the XL, like power locks and windows, floor mats, a 110v dash-mounted power outlet, a premium stereo with five speakers, and cloth seats.

• Lariat: For the top-tier model, you get fog lamps, a utility lighting system, body-color door handles, dual-zone automatic temperature control, forged polished aluminum wheels, and power-adjustable pedals. 

Buy the New RAM 5500 at Paul Sherry Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM

If you think the RAM 5500 is the better choice for you, we invite you to check out our inventory of brand new models at Paul Sherry Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM. We have our full selection available to view online, so you can start the shopping process there, give us a call, or stop in to see the trucks in person at our Piqua, Ohio location.