Two Legendary Trucks. One Big Decision.

 

If you live or work in Petoskey, Charlevoix, or Cheboygan, there’s a good chance your next vehicle will be a truck. And not just any truck — it’s likely coming down to two industry leaders: the Ford F-150 and the Ram 1500.

 

Both are powerful, capable, and loaded with modern tech. But which one is right for the way you work, play, and drive in northern Michigan?

 

Let’s break it down.

Ford F-150

• Max towing: Up to 13,500 lbs (with 3.5L EcoBoost + Max Tow)
• Max payload: Up to 2,455 lbs
• Smart towing tech: Pro Trailer Backup Assist™, Trailer Reverse Guidance

 

RAM 1500

• Max towing: Up to 12,750 lbs (with 5.7L HEMI + eTorque)
• Max payload: Up to 2,300 lbs
• Towing features: 360° Surround View, Trailer Steering Assist

 

Verdict: If you’re pulling heavy equipment, boats, or trailers up and down I-75 or across seasonal roads, the F-150 edges ahead in raw numbers and advanced trailering tech.

F-150 Engine Options:

• 2.7L EcoBoost V6
• 3.5L EcoBoost V6
• 5.0L V8
• 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid (up to 25 MPG combined)
• 3.5L High-Output EcoBoost (Raptor)

 

RAM 1500 Engine Options:

1. 3.6L V6 with eTorque
2. 5.7L HEMI V8 with or without eTorque
3. 6.2L Supercharged V8 (TRX, previously available)

Verdict: The F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid is a strong pick for fuel economy and offers built-in power via Pro Power Onboard, ideal for job sites or campsites. RAM’s HEMI still shines for raw grunt and sound — but not at the pump.

F-150 Packages:

• FX4 Off-Road Package
• Tremor
• Raptor

 

Ram 1500 Packages:

• Off-Road Group
• Rebel
• TRX

 

Both offer 4WD, all-terrain tires, hill descent control, and locking rear differentials.

 

Verdict: Tie. Both trucks offer excellent capability. If you’re exploring seasonal two-tracks, trailering snowmobiles, or hauling gear through Petoskey winters, either one will handle it.

Ford F-150:

• Sync 4 w/ 12" touchscreen
• Available fold-flat front seats
• Pro Power Onboard (up to 7.2 kW generator)
• Smart tech: BlueCruise, 360° cameras, Onboard Scales

 

RAM 1500:

• Uconnect 5 w/ available 12" screen
• Reclining rear seats, real wood trim on Laramie/Limited
• Dual-pane sunroof, Harman Kardon® audio
• Air suspension on higher trims

 

Verdict: If you want a work-ready cabin with productivity features, go F-150. If you’re looking for luxury touches and weekend comfort, RAM Limited and Rebel models are tough to beat.

Both models start in the mid-$40Ks and can climb well above $70K when optioned up. However:

• Ford may offer financing specials, including low APR offers for qualified buyers
• RAM incentives may include customer cash, lease support, and other available offers
• F-150 historically holds stronger resale value, especially in northern climates

 

Verdict: You’ll find value either way at Brown Motors — and we’ll help you compare side-by-side.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. That’s why Brown Motors proudly sells and services both the Ford F-150 and RAM 1500 — so you can compare them without bias.

 

Whether you're hauling in Cheboygan, commuting from Charlevoix, or heading to your cabin outside Petoskey, we’ll help you find the truck that’s built for your lifestyle, your budget, and your goals.

Schedule a no-pressure test drive for both the RAM 1500 and Ford F-150
Get your trade appraised in minutes — online or in-store
Ask about factory incentives, lease offers, and PowerBoost or Rebel availability