If you need a heavy duty truck that can handle the toughest tasks, the Ford F350 and F450 are two powerful options to consider.
As the top models in Ford’s famous Super Duty lineup, these trucks are built to work in challenging industries like construction and farming. While very similar underneath, there are some differences between Ford F350 vs F450.
We’ve discussed the main points of differences between these two popular models.
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The Difference Between the Ford F350 and F450
These Ford trucks are both renowned workhorses, but which is best for your needs? We’ll look at how they compare in areas like engine capacity, towing strength, interior comfort, and more.
1. Interior Features
Both trucks offer comfortable seating for up to six people. The entry models come with features like cruise control and back-up cameras. Upgraded trims add nicer leather seats, bigger screens, wireless charging, and advanced camera systems for 360° vision around the truck. Audio systems consist of a 14-speaker B&O unleashed sound system.
When it comes to tech, infotainment, and driver-assist features, the F350 and F450 are practically identical. Both have the latest SYNC 4 system with touchscreens for controlling everything. You’ll find the same connectivity apps, like FordPass, that let you do things remotely from your phone.
2. Engines
Engines are one major point of difference between Ford F350 vs F450.
The F350 offers customers a choice of four gas or diesel engines to suit different needs. The options you can choose from are:
- V8 engine (6.8-liter), offering 405 hp and 445 pound-feet of torque
- V8 engine (7.3-liter), offering 430 hp and 485 pound-feet of torque
- V8 diesel engine (6.7-liter), offering 475 hp and 1,050 pound-feet of torque
In contrast, the mighty F450 only comes with one engine—and it’s a powerhouse. This truck exclusively uses Ford’s high-output 6.7L V8 turbodiesel. This engine generates an enormous 500 horsepower and an eye-popping 1,200 pound-feet of torque. That’s a huge amount of twisting force for pulling heavy loads up steep hills or towing massive trailers down the highway.
3. Body Sizes
While both the Ford F350 and F450 are large pickup trucks, there are some noticeable size variations between the two models. In general, the F450 has a bulkier, more heavy-duty design compared to its slightly smaller F350 sibling. Both trucks come in different trim levels and configurations, but they typically fall into these standard size categories.
The F350 has a body length that ranges from about 232 to 266 inches long. Its width is usually between 80 to 96 inches across. Height-wise, most F350s are around 78 to 81 inches tall.
In contrast, the bigger F450 has a body length that also extends from 232 to 266 inches. However, its width is always a full 96 inches wide. Height on the F450 is consistently 81 inches.
4. Configurations & Bed Sizes
These two models are very similar but also have some distinct differences in their available styles. Let’s take a look at the options for each.
The F350 is offered in three cab styles:
- Regular Cab
- Super Cab
- Crew Cab
The Regular Cab is limited to just an 8-foot bed since it provides less room behind the cab. But the Super Cab and Crew Cab can be with either a 6.75-foot or full-size 8-foot bed, giving more versatility. This allows you to choose between more cargo space or better maneuverability depending on your needs.
The F450 on the other hand only comes as a Regular Cab or Crew Cab. There is only one bed length offered, which is an 8-foot bed. So, while it can’t be customized as much as the F350, the F450 is ideal if you need a true heavy-haul setup.
5. Curb Weight
The curb weight of a truck is how much it weighs without any passengers or cargo. For the F350, curb weights range from around 5,800 pounds all the way up to 8,100 pounds, depending on the model.
In comparison, the F450 is heavier across the board. Its curb weights start at around 7,600 pounds and go up to over 8,600 pounds. No matter which F450 model you look at, it will weigh at least a few hundred pounds more than the heaviest F350.
6. Towing Capacity
Ever wonder how much the mighty Ford Super Duty trucks can haul? The F350 and F450 show a clear towing difference. The F350 can pull a conventional trailer up to 27,000 pounds, which is really impressive. And its gooseneck towing capacity is 32,900 pounds.
The brawny F450 can haul a conventional trailer with 30,000 pounds, and its gooseneck towing capacity is a massive 40,000 pounds. That’s over 7 tons! So, the F450 gives you more umph for really heavy loads that need robust towing power.
7. Payload Capacity
The F350 can hold up to 7,850 pounds in its bed and cargo area, also called its payload capacity. However, the slightly bigger F450 has a lower payload allowance of only 6,210 pounds.
At first, that seems weird since the F450 is a bigger truck. But the secret lies in how much weight each axle can carry. The front end of the F350 is rated for 5,600 pounds while the back can handle 10,300 pounds. This means you have to be careful about balancing heavy loads over each axle.
Interestingly, the F450 has a more balanced setup. It can carry 6,000 pounds on the front axle and 9,900 pounds on the rear axle. So, the F450 is better for evenly distributing really heavy loads.
Ford F350 vs F450: Which One Should You Choose?
Both trucks have the same building platform. So, they mostly differ with each other in terms of performance.
The F350 is an excellent all-around pickup. It tows and hauls extremely large loads with ease thanks to its strong engine and sturdy frame. Yet the F350 remains comfortable and manageable for everyday driving.
Many people use it for towing trailers or equipment for jobs like landscaping, construction, or service work. It can also handle family trips and weekend activities without breaking a sweat.
If heavy-duty is an understatement for your needs, the brawny F-450 may be the truck for you. As the more extreme version, it offers extra towing muscle and more balanced payload capacity over the F-350.
The F-450 truly shines when extremely heavy loads or giant equipment need to be transported. Professionals like utility companies and farmers rely on the F450 horsepower.
