Are Chevy full-size trucks better than Fords? When it comes to rugged, off-road rides and capable towing and hauling performance, two automakers are a cut above the rest: Chevrolet and Ford. When you talk to truck lovers, they’re fiercely loyal to their favorite brand and both Chevy and Ford edge out all the rest of the competition. However, when it comes down to it, Chevy has the edge over Ford. Here’s why.
Chevrolet vs. Ford Trucks: Power & Performance
Both of these full-size trucks were designed with towing and hauling performance high on the agenda, but the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has the edge. That’s mostly thanks to its classic V8 engine lineup. When you select the 5.3-liter V8 engine, your Silverado kicks out 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque for a responsive ride, even when you’ve got a bed full of bricks and mortar. To take that performance to the max, test-drive a Silverado with the 6.2-liter V8 engine. That 6.2-liter V8 supplies 460 horses and 460 pound-feet of torque, giving you all the extra power you need to traverse rugged boulder fields and steep mountain passes. Depending on configuration, a Silverado with this engine can tow max loads of 12,500 pounds.
The 2018 Ford F-150 offers buyers four engines, with a turbodiesel V6 expected later this year. However, none of the current offerings provide quite as much horsepower as you get with the 6.2-liter V8 Silverado 1500, although some come close. The F-150’s 5.0-liter V8 engine, for example, makes 395 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. With the turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, you’ll enjoy 375 horses and 470 pound-feet of torque. With the 2018 model, the F-150 has elevated their towing max to 13,200, about 700 pounds more than the Chevy, but that hefty number is based on the workman-like base XL, a model that buyers may find restrictive in terms of features and options.The Chevy max is based on its middle trim, a truck that will offer far more to potential buyers.
Chevrolet vs. Ford Trucks: Features
In terms of comfort and convenience, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 truly shines. It offers features you won’t find on the F-150, including the OnStar telematics system. This safety technology comes standard on all but the entry-level Work Truck trim, with features like on-demand roadside assistance and automatic collision alert. OnStar also includes a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, which means passengers can connect up to seven devices and surf the Web from anywhere. Speaking of modern technology, these trucks also come standard with the MyLink infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, displaying smartphone apps directly on your central touchscreen. The Silverado also increases convenience with standard bed lighting, giving you the ability to load and unload the bed with maximum visibility.
With the F-150, you won’t get quite so much standard equipment. If you want modern technology and convenience, you’re going to have to pay extra for it. The Sync 3 infotainment system is available – with its own Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities – but doesn’t come standard on every model. Then there’s the F-150’s Ultimate Trailer Tow System Camera System, which does everything from help you hook up a trailer to keep an eye on the cargo in the truck bed. Fabulous equipment, but, again, you have to pay extra for it.
Chevrolet vs. Ford Trucks: Value for Your Money
While a few hundred dollars won’t necessarily matter in the grand scheme of things, value should. Even if you start with the base model Chevrolet Silverado 1500, you’re getting a wide range of modern comfort and convenience features at an excellent price, with a starting MSRP of around $28,300. Contrast that with the Ford F-150, which offers a base model XL for about $1000 less but also gives you less for your money. That XL won’t offer a 7-inch touchscreen or the MyLink system, Bluetooth, power locks, or 2 years of scheduled maintenance. Even at its base model, you get more for your money with the Chevrolet.
Burlington Chevrolet: Home of Chevy Trucks
At Burlington Chevrolet, you can test drive tons Chevrolet trucks to find the right one for you. Whether you’re looking for your next work truck or a plush way to tow your boat to the beach every weekend, we’re here to help. Our knowledgeable staff will guide you to the model that suits your expectations for both utility and luxury. Looking for a lifted truck option? We’ve got you covered there too!