If you’re in the market for a big truck with a long history of excellence, you’re going to love the Ford F-250. All it takes is a glance at the specs to see what this Super Duty truck brings to the table.
What are the most compelling Ford F-250 specs through the years?
Well, there are plenty to consider, like:
- Configurations: Tons of bed and cab styles
- Powerplants: Gas and diesel V8s galore
- Engine Output: Up to 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft.
Although they are important, these specs don’t tell you all there is to know about the Ford F-250. Thankfully, we are here to do so. Just use this guide to learn about this truck and all it can offer you.
A History of Excellence Through the Decades
When Ford rolled out the F-Series in the late-1940s, they fulfilled the need for a trusty workhorse that could complete a wide variety of tasks. They released it in a number of utility-minded configurations, including the panel truck. It was the pickup design, however, that largely won out over the rest, becoming the most popular layout for all their trucks.
They did not release the F-250 until the second generation, which came on the scene in 1953. At that time, they split their line of trucks into multiple models to give all their loyal customers a number of excellent choices. The ¾ ton F-250 sits in the middle of the early lineup, serving as a heavy-duty pickup that could tow and carry more than the ½ ton F-100.
Through the generations, the F-250 along with all the other F-Series trucks became ever more sophisticated. Their appearance became more and more refined as did their performance and tech features.
In 1998, Ford decided to split up the F-Series into two lines of trucks. The F-250 landed in the Super Duty category as a result. From that moment on, it followed the trajectory of the other Super Duty trucks, which ranged from the F-250 to the F-600.
Ample Power for All Your Tasks
Now in its fourth generation, the Ford F-250 comes with a huge footprint and plenty of power.
Although this truck has always boasted powerful V8s, the ones in the 2020 model take its performance to the next level.
You can get a modern F-250 with one of three engines:
- 6.2L gas-powered V8: 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft.
- 7.3L gas-powered V8: 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft.
- 6.7L Power Stroke diesel: 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft.
The newest F-250s also feature two transmission options. You can get it equipped with either the 10-speed automatic or six-speed automatic, depending on which engine you select. Both of these gearboxes can easily get all that power to the ground and stand up to even the most difficult tasks.
The way you configure this truck also influences how much it can tow. For the most towing capacity, you’ll want to get the 6.7L V8 in the crew or SuperCab body style.
If you do that, you can tow trailers up to 20,000 pounds with ease. When equipped with the gasoline engines or the regular cab, towing capacity drops down to around 13,000 to 15,000 pounds.
Modern F-250s also have superb payload limits, which range from 2,460 to 4,320 pounds depending on their configuration. That means you can carry all your tools, camping gear, and so much more without worry about damaging your truck.
Keeping an Eye on Safety
Although this truck was built for sheer utility and performance, Ford never once compromised on safety. As with all their vehicles, they always go above and beyond in building a solid structure and reinforcing it in all the right places.
The F-250 regularly earns four and five-star crash ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) as a result. The 2019 F-250, for example, got a five-star overall rating due to its outstanding frontal and side-impact results.
Ford also equips this truck with airbags all around, including side and overhead airbags. If a collision occurs, you can trust these airbags to cushion you and your passengers, potentially preventing minor to severe injuries.
The high-tech safety features also help prevent accidents from occurring. For the 2020 Ford F-250, for example, Ford includes AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control standard across all trim levels. This system keeps the truck tightly gripping the road whether you’re driving on gravel, snow, or even ice. It also helps prevent rollover accidents by transferring power where it’s needed most.
Other standard safety equipment includes:
- Four-wheel vented disc brakes
- Anti-lock braking system
- Trailer sway control
- Tire pressure monitoring system
- Rearview camera
With all this safety equipment at your side, you are sure to continue on your travels ready for whatever comes your way.
Benefits and Drawbacks of the Ford F-250
If you’re still not so sure about the Ford F-250 as your truck of choice, let the pros and cons help you decide.
Pros:
- Lots of power
- Many configuration options
- Excellent towing capacity
- Stunningly good looks
- Reliable mile after mile
Cons:
- Guzzles down the fuel
- Expensive to maintain
- Pricey at the highest trim level
- Lots of extra packages to buy
- Challenging to find parking
You should know by now if the F-250 will serve your needs well. If not, then you might want to consider some of its top competitors: the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and the Ram 2500.
Ready to Buy an F-250? Remember the Vehicle History Report
If you’re ready to pick out your perfect Ford F-250, start your buying journey with a glance at the classifieds.
As you check out each option, refer to Vehicle History as needed to confirm each one is just what you want. With a quick check of the VIN, you can learn about accidents and other hidden problems, helping you avoid buyer’s remorse.
