If you're in the market for a high-performance pickup truck, the 2023 Ram 1500 TRX and the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R are two top contenders that offer rugged capability and off-road prowess. Both of these powerhouse trucks are designed for enthusiasts who crave exceptional power and adventure on all types of terrain.
These two brutes of the off-road world share several similarities, yet each brings a unique set of capabilities and features to the table. Get ready to witness a clash of power, speed, and off-road prowess as we delve into the details of these fierce competitors. Whether you're a die-hard Ford fan or a dedicated member of the Ram Tribe, join us as we compare the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R and the Ram TRX in an epic battle for truck supremacy.
Let's delve into the comparison to help you determine which of these high-output trucks suits your preferences.
Off-Road Credentials:
Off-road performance is a critical factor when considering trucks of this caliber. Here's how the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R and the 2023 Ram 1500 TRX compare in terms of off-road statistics:
Ground Clearance: The Raptor R boasts a ground clearance of 13.1 inches, surpassing the TRX's 11.8 inches.
Approach Angle: The Raptor R excels with an approach angle of 33.1 degrees, while the TRX offers a slightly lower 30.2 degrees.
Departure Angle: The Raptor R again takes the lead with a departure angle of 24.9 degrees, compared to the TRX's 23.5 degrees.
Breakover Angle: Once more, the Raptor R outperforms the TRX, with a breakover angle of 24.4 degrees versus the TRX's 21.9 degrees.
From these off-road specs, it's clear that the Ford F-150 Raptor R has the edge in terms of off-road capabilities.
2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R Quick Review
Engines:
The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R is equipped with a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD.
The 2023 Ram 1500 TRX features the infamous Hellcat engine, a 6.2-liter Supercharged V8, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and also offering standard 4WD.
Horsepower:
Both of these off-road beasts deliver impressive power:
The Ford F-150 Raptor R produces 700 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque.
The Ram 1500 TRX, however, takes a slight lead with 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.
Towing Capacity:
Surprisingly, the Ford F-150 Raptor R boasts higher towing numbers:
The Raptor R can tow up to 8,700 pounds.
The TRX offers a slightly lower towing capacity of up to 8,100 pounds.
The Ford F-150 Raptor R has a base weight of 5,950 pounds.
The Ram 1500 TRX is slightly heavier, with a base weight of 6,350 pounds.
0-60 Times:
When it comes to straight-line performance, here are the results:
The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R showcased its remarkable acceleration, sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds. It continued its impressive performance by covering the quarter-mile in 12.1 seconds at a speed of 111.8 mph.
In contrast, the 2023 Ram 1500 TRX, despite its powerful engine, lagged behind with a 0-60 time of 3.9 seconds. This slight delay in acceleration can be attributed to its additional 400 pounds of weight compared to the Ford Raptor R.
2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R vs Ram TRX // DRAG RACE & OFF-ROAD RACE
Dimensions:
In the battle of dimensions between the Ram 1500 TRX and the Ford F-150 Raptor R, the 2023 Ram 1500 TRX holds a slight edge. The 2023 Ram 1500 TRX is slightly larger than the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R, with the Ram being wider, longer, and taller. This size difference, along with the Ram's larger engine, contributes to its imposing presence.
Ram 1500 TRX: LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT (232.9 x 88.0 x 80.9 in).
F-150 Raptor R: LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT (232.6 x 87.0 x 80.6 in).
Prices:
There is a notable price difference between the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R and the 2023 Ram 1500 TRX:
The Ford F-150 Raptor R has a starting sticker price of $109,145 in the comparison.
On the other hand, the Ram 1500 TRX starts at a base price of $85,785.
The Ford F-150 Raptor R comes with a starting price that is $23,360 higher than the base price of the Ram 1500 TRX. It's important to note that prices may vary based on additional features, options, and packages chosen by buyers, which can further influence the final cost of each vehicle.
Driving Experience:
The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R excels in several areas, offering impressive acceleration, agile handling, and a suspension system meticulously engineered to absorb rugged terrain. This combination ensures a comfortable and confident driving experience, whether navigating challenging trails or cruising along the highway. The Raptor R stands out for its responsiveness and dynamic performance, making it a versatile choice for a variety of driving scenarios.
On the contrary, the Ram 1500 TRX takes off-road prowess to another level with outstanding capabilities. Equipped with features such as the Bilstein Black Hawk e2 shock system and robust 35-inch all-terrain tires, it effortlessly conquers even the most demanding terrains. Both trucks come equipped with robust off-road modes, specialized suspension configurations, and advanced four-wheel-drive systems, enhancing their performance in diverse conditions.
Ultimately, the choice between the Ford F-150 Raptor R and the Ram 1500 TRX hinges on personal preferences. The Ford F-150 Raptor R offers a balanced fusion of power and refinement, while the Ram 1500 TRX leans into its muscle truck persona, delivering an unapologetically bold and exhilarating driving experience tailored to those seeking high-performance thrills.
Ford Raptor R vs. Ram 1500 TRX: Which is Better?
In various on and off-road scenarios, the Ford F-150 Raptor R displayed greater comfort and a willingness to effortlessly overcome obstacles, leaving reviewers duly impressed. However, when it came time to declare a victor, a clear distinction emerged. As noted by MotorTrend:
"While both trucks left a strong impression with their capabilities, the Ram 1500 TRX boasts a powerful engine and an intimidating, muscle-bound presence. Nevertheless, whether you prioritize the muscle-car engine or the trophy-truck suspension, the Ford F-150 Raptor R delivers superior performance and a more complete experience. The Raptor R's astonishing capability and its fearless approach to any terrain make it utterly unmatched."
Overall, while both trucks earned their share of praise, the Ford F-150 Raptor R ultimately stood out as the preferred choice, offering exceptional performance and unparalleled adaptability to diverse terrains, establishing itself as an unrivaled option.
Final Verdict
In summary, while the Ram 1500 TRX has a slight advantage in engine power, the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R stands out as the better overall off-road truck. It has superior off-road specifications, better payload and towing capabilities, and is lighter in weight. Both trucks are exceptional, but if you're seeking a top-performing off-road truck, the Ford F-150 Raptor R might be the better choice for you.