Work Trucks: Ford F-150 XLT vs Ram 1500 Tradesman Unfiltered Buddy Review [Video]

2019 ford f150 xlt ram 1500 tradesman
Ford F-150 XLT vs Ram 1500 Tradesman

Both players, the Ford F-150 XLT vs new Ram 1500 Tradesman, represent two very different approaches in building top-notch work trucks. While neither is a completely stripped-our base model, they both avoid high-end interiors, exteriors and upgrades. Still, at about $44,000 each – they represent a real investment to the hard worker who needs a hard working truck.

The Ford F-150 XLT vs Ram 1500 Tradesman used in this video are two very different trucks. Different types of power, transmissions, drive wheels and overall design truly set them apart. Let’s take a closer look:


The new Ford F-150 XLT came to us sporting the powerful 395 horsepower “Coyote” V8 that makes 400 lb-ft of torque at 3,850 rpm. It’s a rocket, one that’s managed by a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. While we weren’t given a 4X4 model, the Coyote V8 was definitely the highlight component here. Sure, it’s light on its toes, thanks to its all-aluminum body, it all comes together to make this worker truck downright sporty.


You can read more about the Ford F-150 specifications (here).

The all-new 2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman is a little more sedate than the hot-blooded Ford in this comparison. It makes power from its 305 hp 3.6-liter “Pentastar” V6 that makes 269 lb-ft of torque. The Pentastar may be a bit old, but it does come with the e-Torque system that adds an electric motor’s power to launch (and a smooth start-stop system) which helps mpg. While it does have an eight-speed automatic transmission, this one does come with a proper 4WD system.

You can read about the 2019 Ram 1500’s details (here).

The “Unfiltered Buddy Review” includes the following:

  • real-world 0-60 MPH while merging on the highway
  • interior noise level check with a dB meter at 55 MPH
  • navigation system check with voice commands
  • rough side-road test with a Hoola-girl scale of (1: ultra smooth or 10: intensely bouncy)
  • and our Buy It, Lease It, Rent It, or Forget It rating at the end

In this video, Andre, Nathan and Stephen pit the Ford F-150 XLT vs Ram 1500 Tradesman in a direct, unfiltered buddy review.

Nathan Adlen
Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism - Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. Brought up in the California car culture and educated in theater, childhood education, film, journalism and history, Nathan now lives with his family in Denver, CO. His words, good humor and video are enjoyed worldwide.