F 350 vs F 450: Which Ford Super Duty Best Suits Your Needs?
F 350 vs F 450: Which Ford Super Duty Best Suits Your Needs?
Posted on October 3, 2024
When it comes to the famed Super Duty lineup, the Ford F-350 and F-450 stand out as the ultimate powerhouses. Renowned for their exceptional performance and versatility, these trucks are engineered to handle the toughest jobs with ease. But with so many choices, how do you narrow them down?
Are you one of our customers debating whether to choose the F-350 vs. the outstanding Ford F-450? This guide breaks down the main differences in engine power, towing capacity, and overall usability to help you make an informed decision.
Key Decision-Making Criteria for the F 350 vs F 450 Debate
- The Ford F-350 offers more versatile engine options from gas to turbodiesel while the Ford F-450 has only the best turbodiesel engines available.
- The F-450 excels in towing capacity and performance, making it ideal for heavy-duty commercial applications.
- The Ford F-450 definitely takes the lead with a max towing capacity of up to 40,000 pounds, while the F-350 can handle almost 38,000 pounds—assuming ideal configurations and packages.
- The F-350 has a maximum payload capacity of 6,275-8,000 pounds, while the F-450 offers 5,303-6,482 pounds with the 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke Turbodiesel V8
- Cost-wise, the F-350 is more budget-friendly with better resale value and used vehicle opportunities, while the F-450 can get a bit pricier due to its top-tier capabilities.
- For everyday driving, the Ford F-350 is often the better choice because it offers a smoother and more comfortable ride than the reportedly stiffer-ride F-450.
F 350 and F 450 Engine Options and Performance
Discover the versatility of the Ford F-350 with its range of powerful engine options, or rely on the F-450's standard one perfectly symbolized by the open hood of this pickup truck. Your sales advisor is here to help you choose the engine that best suits your needs, ensuring a great buying or leasing experience. Whether you need maximum towing capacity or you need a balance between power and efficiency, we’ve got you covered.
Choosing a new truck often hinges on the engine, which influences power, performance, and the ability to manage different tasks. As our sales advisors tell any of our customers they can, the Ford F-350 and F-450 offer engine options tailored for raw power, efficiency, or a balanced mix of both; it all depends on what you need to get done.
Ford F-350 Engine Choices
The Ford F-350 offers multiple engine choices, starting with the standard 6.8L 2 Valve Gas DEVCT NA PFI V8 gasoline engine. Other options include the 7.3L 2V DEVCT NA PFI V8 and an optional 6.7L Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel Engine for higher power and efficiency. The gas-fed 6.8-liter V8 engine delivers 400 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque, suitable for general use.
For greater muscle, the 7.3-liter V-8 engine provides 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque, ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
These engine options make the F-350 custom to your various driving and towing needs. Whether as a reliable daily driver or a power vehicle for towing and hauling, the F-350 offers flexibility in engine specifications—not easily found in heavy duty trucks of the competition.
Ford F-450 Standard Engine
The Ford F-450 comes standard with the 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 engine, known for its exceptional performance and ability to handle demanding tasks almost effortlessly. This engine provides exceptional power and torque, making the F-450 a formidable choice for tackling tough jobs.
As a commercial-grade engine, it's key to hauling a variety of heavy-duty loads, such as construction equipment, large trailers, and even multi-vehicle transports. Moreover, you can upgrade to the 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke Turbodiesel V8 to get the ultimate in power. From farmers to industrial organizations requiring upfit services for the heaviest hauling, this is the only engine that will do.
F 350 vs F 450 Towing Capacity and Payload
Your sales advisor is committed to providing you with a seamless buying or leasing experience, ensuring you find the perfect truck for your needs. With its powerful engine options and advanced towing capabilities, the F-350 is ready for any adventure and the F-450 is ready for any weight—even up to a record-setting 40,000 lb.
Towing capacity and payload are crucial for heavy-duty trucks. Both the Ford F-350 and F-450 can handle substantial loads, but key differences may make one more suitable for your needs. Recognizing these differences aids in selecting the right truck for your applications.
Maximum Towing Capacity
The new Ford F-350 can tow up to 37,600 pounds when properly equipped. The F-450 surpasses this capability with a maximum gooseneck towing rating of 40,000 pounds, making it ideal for commercial applications and heavy-duty towing tasks.
Both trucks have advanced braking systems for enhanced safety and performance when towing. The F-450, however, features larger brakes for better stopping power and stability, especially with heavy trailers. That ability to stop easier vastly improves the towing capacity.
Payload Capacities
The F-350 has a maximum payload capacity of 6,275-8,000 pounds, while the F-450 offers 5,303-6,482 pounds with the 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke Turbodiesel V8. This range highlights the F-350’s advantage in handling heavier loads directly on the truck, making it ideal for substantial weight tasks.
The F-450’s payload capabilities are impressive, optimized for heavy towing and substantial payloads, including pin weight, making it versatile for hauling and towing large loads. Both trucks provide impressive payload capacities suitable for commercial purposes or hauling equipment, catering to truck owners' different needs.
F 350 vs F 450 Axle and Suspension Differences
Axle and suspension systems are vital for a truck’s performance, particularly in handling heavy loads and maintaining stability. The Ford F-350 and F-450 have distinct axle configurations and suspension systems suited to their specific capabilities and uses.
Wide Track Front Axle
The F-450 features a wide track front axle that significantly enhances stability and handling, especially when towing large trailers. This design positions the wheels farther apart, improving stability during turns and ensuring excellent maneuverability with heavy loads.
The benefit of the wide track front axle is that it boosts the F-450’s superior towing capabilities, making it ideal for heavy towing and commercial applications where stability is key to safely getting where you're going. And with the durability and extra sturdiness, you won't be needing a parts replacement any time soon.
Rear Axle and Suspension
The rear axle and suspension systems in the F-350 and F-450 support their respective payload capacities and enhance stability. The F-450 has a more robust rear axle system, handling higher towing capacities.
Additionally, the suspension systems are tailored to each truck’s role. The F-450’s suspension accommodates medium-duty components, favoring heavy commercial use and ensuring optimal performance in their intended commercial applications—from hauling to towing.
Super Duty Models' Braking and Handling
Experience the power and precision of the Ford Super Duty F-350 Limited as it effortlessly navigates the curves of an open secondary highway. The F-350 Limited boasts a high-strength, military-grade aluminum-alloy body, providing both durability and improved fuel efficiency.
Braking and handling are essential for heavy-duty trucks. The Ford F-350 and F-450 have distinct features enhancing their braking performance and handling capabilities, suiting different uses.
Larger Brakes
The Ford F-450 has larger brakes than the F-350, significantly improving braking performance, especially when towing heavy trailers, providing better stopping power and stability with bigger brakes.
The unique axle and suspension configuration of the F-450 further enhances its handling abilities. Of course, when you're dealing with braking against weights of such a massive size, timely brakes maintenance is completely essential.
Turning Radius
A standout feature of the F-450 is its tighter turning radius, attributed to the wide track front axle. This design positions the wheels farther apart, enhancing maneuverability in tight spaces and during turns, appreciated by RV enthusiasts towing large campers.
Although the F-450 excels in maneuverability, its larger size may be less practical for urban environments. The F-350, with a generally tighter turning radius, might be better for navigating city streets.
Body Styles and Dimensions of the F 350 and F 450
The body styles and dimensions of a truck significantly influence its usability and suitability for various tasks. Both the Ford F-350 and F-450 offer multiple body styles, letting buyers choose the best configuration for their needs.
The F-350 and F-450 are certainly very close, and the comparison, in specs and in looks is a lot more subtle than other closely related vehicles. The end result, however, is a close contest for dominance in towing and hauling.
Cab Configurations
Step into the spacious luxury of the Ford F-450 Super Duty Platinum Crew Cab. Your sales advisor can guide you to a vehicle that offers both ample room and premium comfort for all passengers. Fun fact: The F-450 Platinum’s Crew Cab design not only enhances passenger space but also provides additional storage options, making it perfect for both work and family adventures.
The Fords F-350 and F-450 both come in various cab configurations, including regular cab, super cab, and crew cab. These options offer flexibility in seating capacity and interior space, allowing buyers to choose the cab type that suits their needs. The trade-off is that your choice can dramatically affect your towing or hauling capacity.
Whether you need a spacious interior for passengers or more utility space for equipment, these cab configurations allow for customization. Typically, choosing larger cabs will come at the cost of your towing and hauling limits, so it's best to ask your sales advisor how to find the right balance. If you know what you're towing or hauling and how much it weighs, you can better select your cab size.
F 350 vs F 450 Cost and Value
Cost and value are significant factors when choosing between the F-350 and F-450. Knowing the initial purchase price and long-term value of each truck aids in making an informed decision.
Purchase Price
The starting price for the 2023 Ford F-450 is in excess of $129,000, higher than the F-350’s range of over $86,000 to a max of $116,000. This higher price reflects the F-450’s enhanced capabilities and robust performance features. For buyers needing superior towing and payload capacities, the additional cost might be justified.
Conversely, the F-350 is a more affordable option, prioritizing cost-effectiveness without sacrificing substantial performance. Its lower starting price makes it attractive for daily drivers and those with lighter towing needs—and as such used F-350 models are often easier to come by.
For even more versatility you might consider leases to make your approach to F-350 ownership more agile and less permanent; you can always lease a F-350 with one set of specs and lease another configuration later as your needs change.
Long-term Value
The Ford F-350 tends to retain its resale value better than the F-450. In our used inventory, the F-350 is expected to be available for between $35,000 and $50,000 on the lower end. Meanwhile the F-450’s resale value is greater, due to its top tier. Additionally, the F-350 generally has lower maintenance and parts costs, making it practical for daily drivers. Its popularity makes it an amazing vehicle to trade as well.
Specific Use Cases for F 350 or F 450
Here's an example of the unmatched power of the Ford F-450 Super Duty chassis cab, expertly upfitted for a logging fleet. Your sales advisor can help you find a vehicle that delivers exceptional performance and reliability for demanding tasks. Did you know? The Ford-designed, Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 diesel engine in the F-450 boosts ratings to an impressive 330 horsepower and 750 lb.-ft. of torque, setting a new standard in the Class 4 and Class 5 segments.
Specific use cases for the F-350 and F-450 help determine the better fit for your needs. Both trucks are optimized for different applications, ranging from commercial tasks to recreational activities and everyday driving.
Commercial Applications
For commercial applications, the F-450 gets a lot of orders for its superior towing features and stability under load. However, the F-350 is also strong for smaller commercial operations due to its balance of capability and cost-efficiency. Depending on specific commercial needs, either truck can be a great asset. If either model are of interest to you as essential capital to complete tough jobs, try financing one!
Recreational Towing
For recreational towing, the F-450’s superior towing capabilities make it ideal for hauling larger trailers and campers. The F-350 is suitable for most of the lighter trailers, appealing to casual teamsters who don’t need extreme towing power. Both trucks perform excellently for recreational purposes, depending on towing requirements.
Everyday Driving
For everyday driving, our sales advisors can attest that the F-350 is generally more comfortable due to its smoother ride compared to the stiffer-riding F-450. This balance of comfort and utility makes the F-350 a feasible choice for regular driving. Those prioritizing comfort in daily driving might find the F-350 to be the better option for their purposes.
Visit Strathmore Ford to Gauge the Difference Between F-350 and F-450
Explore the new Ford F-350 at our Strathmore lot, where your sales advisor is dedicated to ensuring you have a seamless and satisfying buying or leasing experience. With its powerful performance and advanced features, the F-350 is built to handle any challenge, and our team is here to support you in the decision to upgrade to an F-450—every step of the way.
The F-350 offers a range of engine options, impressive payload capacity, and a more affordable price point, making it ideal for those who need a versatile and cost-effective truck for everyday driving and lighter towing tasks.
Both the Ford F-350 and F-450 are excellent trucks, each with unique strengths that cater to different needs. Financing your Super Duty could be a way to get the most value up-front by starting on your truck repayment plan—so you're not choosing simply based on your bank account on the day you need one.
On the other hand, the F-450 stands out with its superior towing capacity, robust engine, and enhanced stability, making it a powerhouse for heavy-duty commercial applications and recreational towing of large trailers. As one of Ford's best trucks for work, it's a great find—new or used.
Ultimately, the choice between these two great trucks boils down to your specific requirements and preferences. Whether you prioritize cost, performance, or payload capacity, Ford’s lineup ensures that there’s a truck suited to your needs and our sales advisors can help you make the choice easier. Choose wisely, and you’ll have a reliable companion for many years to come.
Schedule a test drive at Strathmore Ford to experience the differences firsthand and find the perfect truck for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bigger than the F-350?
The Ford F-450 is larger than the F-350. It features a longer wheelbase and overall length, making it more suitable for heavy-duty tasks. The F-450 also offers higher towing and payload capacities, thanks to its reinforced chassis and dual rear wheels.
Is the F-350 a 1-ton truck?
Yes, the Ford F-350 is classified as a 1-ton truck. This classification is based on its payload capacity, which typically ranges around 2,000 pounds or 1 ton. The F-350 is designed to handle heavier loads compared to the F-250 (3/4-ton) and F-150 (1/2-ton), making it a popular choice for both commercial and heavy-duty personal use. The F-450 is still called a 1-ton as well, rather than a 1.5 ton.
Which pickup has the best engine?
The Ford F-150 is often cited as having one of the best engines in the pickup market, particularly its 3.5L EcoBoost V6. This engine combines turbocharging and direct injection to deliver impressive power and fuel efficiency. However, the most powerful goes to the 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke Turbodiesel V8 found in the Ford F-450.
Who has the best diesel engine?
Ford’s 6.7L Power Stroke V8 diesel engine is widely regarded as one of the best in the industry. It delivers up to 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque, providing exceptional towing and hauling capabilities. This engine is known for its durability, efficiency, and advanced features like a single-sequential turbocharger and a high-pressure fuel system.