RAM 2500 vs Ford F-250: Heavy-Duty Towing Compared for Australia

RAM 2500 vs Ford F-250: the short answer

Both trucks sit in the heavy-duty tier above the 1500/F-150-class pickups, built for owners who need serious payload and towing capacity — think large caravans, heavy machinery trailers, horse floats or a loaded gooseneck. The RAM 2500 runs the 6.7L Cummins inline-six turbo-diesel, long regarded for its low-rpm torque and straightforward mechanical layout. The F-250 runs the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo-diesel, which is closely matched on power and torque figures and has its own strong following among towing-focused owners.

Engine and towing character

The Cummins inline-six is known for delivering strong torque low in the rev range, which many owners find suits stop-start towing conditions and steep grades particularly well. The Power Stroke V8 is no slouch either, with outputs that closely track the Cummins on paper, and a driving character some owners describe as slightly more responsive at higher revs. In practice, either engine will comfortably handle heavy Australian towing tasks when the truck is properly set up and within its rated limits.

GVM, GCM and towing legality in Australia

HD-series trucks like the 2500 and F-250 are often bought specifically for their higher GVM and GCM, but the number on the badge isn't the number that matters legally — it's what's on the compliance plate after remanufacture to right-hand drive. Payload, tow ball mass and combined mass all need checking against your actual trailer and load, and a GVM upgrade may still be relevant depending on how the truck was complied.

DPF and emissions system considerations

• Both the Cummins and Power Stroke use diesel particulate filters that need active or passive regeneration to stay clear
• Short trips, low-load driving or ignoring warning lights can lead to DPF blockages on either engine
• Regular regeneration drives and correct oil/fuel quality reduce DPF issues on both platforms
• DPF cleaning or replacement costs vary by severity and are quoted after diagnosis, not as a flat fee

Servicing costs: RAM 2500 vs F-250

Both trucks fall into the HD-series service category due to larger oil capacities, heavier-duty filters and hoist requirements. At American Truck Centre a minor service on either the RAM 2500 or Ford F-250 is a fixed $599. Larger jobs — transmission service, DPF cleaning, suspension or driveline work — are quoted individually once we've inspected the truck, since needs vary significantly with age, kilometres and towing history.

Which one suits your towing needs?

If you value the Cummins' low-rpm towing torque and inline-six simplicity, the RAM 2500 is a proven choice among Australian tow-heavy buyers. If you prefer the Power Stroke's V8 character or a specific F-250 cab/tray configuration, it's an equally capable HD truck. Either way, buy from a compliant remanufacturer, check the compliance plate against your actual towing needs, and have a specialist inspect the truck before you commit — particularly if it's secondhand.