How to Compare the F-150 to the Dodge Truck
- 1). Compare the torque and horsepower of the F-150 and the Dodge truck you're interested in. Both torque and horsepower are important when it comes to selecting a truck. Horsepower is key when acceleration is concerned, but torque is what provides the power for your truck to haul heavy loads, pull trailers or drive up steep hills. A higher torque means more power, but usually at the cost of a heftier price tag. A V-6 engine will typically have better torque and horsepower than a four-cylinder engine, and a V-8 engine will typically have better torque and horsepower than a V-6, but more power usually comes at the cost of less gas mileage.
- 2). Examine whether the truck comes four-wheel-drive equipped. While most people think of trucks as four-wheel-drive machines, not all of them are. Most F-150 models and many Dodge truck models do come with four-wheel drive, but some do not. If you're mainly going to use the truck to get back and forth to work and don't live in a wintry climate, four-wheel drive isn't much of a concern. But if you're hauling heavy loads over muddy terrain, or live in a brutal winter climate, you probably will want a truck that has four-wheel drive.
- 3). Compare the safety features. Many modern Ford F-150 models come standard with electronic stability control, as do certain Dodge truck models. Electronic stability improves the truck's stability by preventing slipping and sliding. Trucks are more prone than cars to roll over, so you're better off to take the truck that has more airbags, electronic stability control and better crash ratings.
- 4). Measure the bed size. Most modern F-150s and Dodge Rams come equipped with a long bed that measures 8 feet, while the Dakota models have beds that measure 6, 7 and 8 feet. You can carry a standard 4- by 8-foot sheet of drywall and plywood in the back of an 8-foot-long bed with the tailgate closed.
- 5). Compare the available seating. Many F-150 trucks come standard with four doors, while many Dodge trucks do not. If you're going to be the only one in the truck, seating won't be a concern for you, but if the truck is also going to be your family vehicle, you may want to opt for one that has four doors and more room.
