The biggest vehicle rivalry in the United States is the one between the Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado 1500. And it's easy to see why. Both these pickups boast powerful engines, off-roading capability, and lots of work-hard-play-hard potential. Yes, this rivalry is a heated one, very close in most ways. But there are a few things that make one edge out the other. In this comparison guide, we'll review what makes the 2019 Ford F-150 the one to pick between these two titans of the pickup class.
Price: 2019 Ford F-150
For starters, the F-150 lives at the price point you can live with. Looking to save a buck to get the workhorse without the frills? The base XL trim starts at just $28,155. Do you want a no-holds-barred off-roading powerhouse top-tier? Try the top-tier Raptor trim for $52,855. Do you want an all-around capable truck for the everyday person? We recommend the XLT for $34,160 or Lariat, starting at $41,700. Do you want a luxury liner of a truck, with all the bells and whistles that'll really make you feel like the king of the range? Get in the King Ranch for $52,390.
By comparison, the 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 starts at $32,200, several thousand more than the F-150 XL, and tops out at $53,000. In other words, the Silverado starts at a higher price point and ends there as well. Not a big deal if the quality is there, so we'll keep plowing through these categories.
Towing and Hauling: 2019 Ford F-150
We can talk about horsepower all day (the Ford has more), but the only thing that matters when you have a load that needs to get from A to B is towing and hauling power. The 2019 Ford F-150 boasts a payload capacity of 3,300 pounds and a towing capacity, when properly equipped, of 13,200 pounds. With Trailer Backup Assist, Dynamic Hitch Assist, and Trailer Sway Control, the towing potential is top-notch.
The Chevy Silverado 1500 does well too. Its payload capacity comes in at nearly 3,000 pounds (300 less than the Ford) and its towing capacity is 12,000 pounds (1,200 less than the Ford). We don't want to diminish the Silverado; these are good numbers. But Ford reigns in this category and has for a number of years.
Fuel Economy: 2019 Ford F-150
Before you think that with all that power, the Ford F-150 must be a terribly thirsty machine, let's roll the numbers for you. The Ford F-150 gets as good as 19 city and miles 25 highway miles per gallon, while the Chevy Silverado gets 17 city and 23 highway miles per gallon. The beastly Ford turns out to be the gas-sipper.
Let's review. You can buy a 2019 Ford F-150 for less than the Chevy Silverado and get better engine options while saving money at the pump. We've found a winner.