F250 vs F350: What’s the Difference?

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2024 Ford Super Duty Comparison

The Ford F-Series Super Duty pickups are designed for serious work and play. The main differences between the F-250 and F-350 models are  the F-350 has greater towing and payload capacities, larger chassis and dimensions, dual rear wheel options, and higher pricing compared to the F-250.

In this guide, we’ll compare the latest 2024 F-250 and F-350 models and highlight what sets them apart. We’ll look at towing and payload capacity, powertrains, dimensions, pricing, performance and ideal uses for each Super Duty truck.

See the F-250 and F-350 Super Duty models for sale now at Westlie Ford near Vancouver, WA. Then read on as we contrast the capabilities of Ford’s flagship heavy duty pickups.

Towing and Payload Capacity

The most noticeable difference between the F-250 and F-350 is their capabilities for towing trailers and hauling cargo:

• Towing – The F-350 has a significantly higher max towing capacity up to 32,500 pounds, compared to 19,500 pounds for the F-250. This makes the F-350 the clear choice for pulling very large 5th wheel RVs, heavy equipment and boats.
• Payload – The F-350 also bests the F-250 in maximum payload, with over 8,300 pounds hauling ability in the bed. That’s ideal for carrying heavier materials and cargo.

The F-350 achieves its superior towing and hauling capabilities through chassis enhancements and a robust drivetrain designed for extreme-duty applications. But if your needs don’t exceed the lower limits of the F-250, it offers capable performance at a lower cost.

Engine, Transmission and Drivetrain

Both the F-250 and F-350 offer similar powertrain options, with a few differences:

• Gas engines – Choices range from a 6.2L 2-valve V8 to a new 7.3L pushrod V8 making 430 hp and 475 lb-ft torque. The F-350 offers an additional 6.8L V10.
• Diesel engine – The powerful 6.7L Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 delivers 475 hp and a massive 1,050 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic.
• Transmission – Available transmissions include a 6-speed automatic or 10-speed automatic depending on configuration.
• Drivetrain – Rear-wheel-drive and 4-wheel-drive options are offered on both models. The F-350 is available with dual rear wheels for extra traction.

While the powertrain options are similar, the increased towing and payload capabilities of the F-350 are enabled by additional chassis strengthening and a more robust drivetrain.

Dimensions, Configurations and Pricing

The F-350 is bigger and more capable than the F-250, which also makes it more expensive:

• Crew cab options – Both models offer Regular Cab and SuperCab configurations, but most buyers opt for the spacious 4-door SuperCrew cab.
• Bed length – Available bed lengths are 6-3/4 ft and 8 ft on the F-250 and F-350. The F-350 also offers an 8-ft bed with dual rear wheels.
• Wheelbase – The F-350 has a longer wheelbase (159 inches compared to 148 inches) for its single rear wheel models. The dual rear wheel F-350 has a 176-inch wheelbase.
• Trim levels – The Work Truck, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum trim packages are available on both models. The F-350 also offers the Tremor Off-Road package.
• Price – The F-350 has a starting MSRP around $2,000 higher than the F-250. Fully loaded dually F-350s can cost over $90,000.

If ride quality and maneuverability are more important than outright capability, the somewhat smaller dimensions and lower cost of the F-250 may have appeal.

Performance, Handling and Ride Quality

With similar powertrain offerings, the performance differences come down to the increased capabilities of the F-350 chassis and drivetrain.

Towing heavy loads or hauling a full payload puts more stress on the truck, and the F-350 is built to take on the challenge. It provides more confident acceleration and braking control when loaded up or with a trailer attached.

In terms of ride and handling, the F-250 offers slightly better on-road comfort and maneuverability. Its smaller size and lower curb weight provide a smoother ride quality when unloaded. The F-350 dual rear wheel models have a wider turning radius that requires more careful maneuvering.

Off-road, the F-250 performs well within its capability limits. But the F-350 once again excels when presented with rough terrain, steep grades, slippery mud and challenging rock crawling conditions. Its size can still limit some off-road agility however.

Choosing Between the F-250 and F-350

When choosing between the F-250 and F-350 Super Duty trucks, it comes down to matching your towing, hauling, comfort and budget needs with the right capabilities:

• The F-350 is the clear choice for extreme duty towing and payload capacity. It can pull massive trailers up to 32,500 lbs and carry over 8,000 lbs in its bed.
• The F-250 offers capable but lower towing and payload limits. It’s a better fit if you don’t need the F-350’s extreme capacities.
• Both trucks offer similar powertrain options. But the F-350 chassis and drivetrain are built more robust to handle its enhanced capabilities.
• The F-250 provides a slightly smoother ride when unloaded. The F-350 excels at control when towing or hauling heavy loads.
• The F-350 costs more but it’s built for unmatched towing and hauling extremes. The F-250 gives you strong capabilities at a lower price point.

Whether you choose the F-250 or F-350, the Super Duty trucks are purpose-built for work and recreation. We invite you to check out the Ford F-Series models currently available at Westlie Ford in Vancouver, WA. Our sales advisors can help select the right Super Duty truck to match your needs. Contact us or visit Westlie Ford to take your pick of our F-250 and F-350 inventory today.

Reviewed By: Ryan Dickerson, General Manager

With over two decades of experience across all facets of the automotive business, Ryan Dickerson leads Washougal’s Westlie Ford dealership with an unmatched passion for Ford vehicles. Applying his expertise in sales, finance, management, and customer service, he provides Westlie Ford clients with personalized guidance on finding the right Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, and crossovers to fit their needs. Known for taking a genuine interest in each customer, he ensures car-buyers receive the small-town friendly experience Westlie Ford is known for, while still providing big-dealership selection and value. Along with doing what he can with helping the local community, Dickerson stays up-to-date on the latest Ford models and technology.