What Are Better: Ford or Chevy Trucks?

 This argument has probably been going on since the Ford and Chevrolet companies first started manufacturing pickup trucks, with the first Ford truck, the Model TT, coming off the line in 1917, and the first Chevrolet truck being offered in 1918. Both companies vie to outdo the other in terms of utility, strength, and capacities of their trucks, as well as interior comforts and other features. You'll find plenty of people in both camps, some saying they'll never own anything but a Ford truck and others claiming Chevy for life. We'll take a look and compare the current offerings.

Midsized Trucks

Ford Ranger - The Ranger first came on the scene in 1983 and has remained a staple of the Ford lineup. The current model doesn't offer many customization choices, but Ford's idea is that you really won't need them. They've packed a lot of muscle into this truck. It boasts a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine getting 26 mpg on the highway and 21 in city driving. Its payload is rated at 1,860 pounds and it can haul 7,500 lbs. It comes in both crew cab and super cab models as well as the basic truck.

Chevrolet Colorado - The Colorado offers more customization options than the Ranger, and the standard power plant is a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine. While this engine is slightly larger than the Ranger's, the output is less at 200 horsepower vs. the Ranger's 270. The fuel consumption is rated at 25 mpg highway and 19 mpg in the city. The max payload is 1,550 pounds, with a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. With engine options, the towing capacity can be raised to as much as 7,700 lbs. The Colorado offers exceptional handling and ample cabin space. The touchscreen will pair with any smartphone, keeping you connected.

Heavyweight Trucks

Ford F-150 - This model, introduced in 1975, has become the best-selling truck in history. There are five engine options, with a sixth being a hybrid model, and several trim levels. The basic engine is a 3.3-liter V6 that puts out 290 horsepower that can haul 8,200 lbs. The fuel usage is 25 mpg highway and 19 mpg city. The engine options can increase the towing capacity to 14,000, making it useful for any farm or job site. The payload varies from 1,840 to 3,250 pounds. There is a roomy crew cab model but the regular cab with a three-person bench seat is pretty comfortable as well. There are many options for convenience, storage and entertainment to enhance the interior.

Chevrolet Silverado - This workhorse comes with a 4.3-liter V6 offering 310 horsepower. Fuel efficiency is rated at 19 on the highway and 15 in the city. The base engine tows up to 7,900 lbs., but the upgrade to the 6.2-liter V8 raises this capacity to noticeable 13,300 lbs. The 1500 model is rated as best-in-class for cargo volume. The interior reflects the no-nonsense purpose of the truck, but there are plenty of comfort and convenience choices possible to adjust it to your liking. All models contain a touchscreen system for infotainment. The crew cab model is perfect for transporting your co-workers around, but the regular cab features plenty of room as well.

So what's better, Ford or Chevy trucks? Both brands of pickups will give years of reliable service and are tough enough to handle farm work, construction jobs and other blue collar needs. Often, the choice between a Ford or Chevy truck boils down to personal preference or need. Both brands of trucks were rated as having great reliability by J.D. Power, with both brands rated in the 81-90 range out of 100. Even if you're bonded to one brand or the other, it doesn't hurt to check out the other company's truck offerings when you're in the market. You might just be pleasantly surprised and switch camps.

Whichever one you happen to own or are thinking of purchasing, you'll be glad to know that there is a great source for aftermarket parts and top-quality accessories for your workhorse. If you live in South Florida or visit there, come by Partsmax Auto Parts and Accessories, the largest auto parts warehouse in the state. Of course, if you can't visit or online!