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Used Ford F-150 vs Used RAM 1500 in Columbus, NE

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Ford F-150 vs RAM 1500 Used Trucks in Columbus, NE

Choosing between a used Ford F-150 and a used RAM 1500 in Columbus, Nebraska comes down to how you plan to use your truck. Both full-size pickups offer strong performance, modern technology, and excellent reliability but they excel in different areas.

The 2024 Ford F-150 stands out for its powerful V8 option, higher safety ratings, stronger resale value, and wider availability on the used market. It’s an ideal choice for buyers who need a dependable work truck capable of towing, hauling, and long-term ownership.

The 2024 RAM 1500, on the other hand, delivers a smoother ride, a more refined interior, and slightly better fuel economy, making it a great option for daily driving, commuting, and long highway trips across Nebraska.

This comparison breaks down pricing, performance, towing, fuel economy, safety, comfort, and real-world usability to help used-truck shoppers confidently decide which truck best fits their lifestyle and budget in the Columbus, NE area.

Ford F-150 vs RAM 1500 Used Trucks in Columbus, NE (2024 Comparison)

When your looking for used trucks in Columbus, Nebraska, two names dominate the conversation: the Ford F-150 and the RAM 1500. Both trucks have loyal followings, strong resale value, and proven reliability, making them top choices on the used market.

In this comparison, we’ll break down used 2024 Ford F-150 vs used 2024 RAM 1500, using real-world specs, pricing, reviews, and performance metrics to answer the most important question:

Which truck is the better buy for drivers in Columbus, NE?

Whether you need towing capability, daily comfort, technology, or long-term value, this guide will help you decide.

Quick Overview: 2024 RAM 1500 vs 2024 Ford F-150

Category2024 RAM 15002024 Ford F-150
MSRP (New Baseline)$38,705$37,065
Used Listings (Columbus Area)133207
User Rating⭐ 4.9⭐ 4.6
Expert Rating8.0 / 10
Max Towing10,520 lbs9,000 lbs
Max Payload1,930 lbs1,810 lbs
MPG (City / Hwy)17 / 2516 / 24

Pricing & Used Market Availability in Columbus, NE

Used RAM 1500 Pricing

The RAM 1500 typically carries a slightly higher MSRP, and that trend continues in the used market. Buyers often pay a small premium for RAM’s refined interior and smooth ride quality.

Pros for buyers:

  • Higher trim levels are common on used lots
  • Strong interior materials even on mid-trims
  • Excellent condition lease returns

Used Ford F-150 Pricing

The Ford F-150 generally offers better value pricing and a wider selection. With 207 listings vs 133 for RAM, shoppers in Columbus have more flexibility on color, cab style, and mileage.

Pros for buyers:

  • More inventory = better negotiating power
  • Lower average used price
  • Easier to find work-ready trims

Winner: Ford F-150
More availability and better price leverage matter when shopping used.

Engine Options & Performance

2024 RAM 1500 Engine

  • 3.6L V6
  • 305 horsepower
  • 269 lb-ft torque
  • Smooth power delivery
  • Quiet, refined driving feel

The RAM’s V6 is tuned for comfort and daily driving. It’s responsive and pairs well with city and highway commuting around Columbus.

2024 Ford F-150 Engine

  • 5.0L V8
  • 400 horsepower
  • 410 lb-ft torque
  • Classic truck power
  • Strong acceleration under load

Ford’s V8 delivers noticeably more muscle, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads.

Winner: Ford F-150
If power matters—especially for work—the F-150 clearly leads.

Towing & Hauling: Nebraska Truck Priorities

Towing capability is critical for farmers, contractors, and recreational users across Platte County.

RAM 1500 Towing

  • Maximum towing: 10,520 lbs
  • Standard towing: 4,610 lbs
  • Smooth under load
  • Stable highway towing

Ford F-150 Towing

  • Maximum towing: 9,000 lbs
  • Standard towing: 9,000 lbs
  • More consistent across trims
  • Excellent trailer control tech

Although the RAM technically wins max towing, the F-150’s standard towing capacity is higher, meaning fewer compromises across trims.

Winner: Tie (slight edge to RAM on paper, Ford in real-world usability)

Ride Quality & Comfort

RAM 1500 Ride Quality

This is where RAM shines.

  • Softer suspension
  • Less road vibration
  • Excellent daily-driver comfort
  • Ideal for long highway trips

Ford F-150 Ride Quality

  • Firmer suspension
  • Built for payload and durability
  • Can feel bouncy when unloaded

Winner: RAM 1500
For comfort-focused buyers, RAM leads the segment.

Interior & Technology

RAM 1500 Interior

  • Premium materials
  • Intuitive infotainment
  • Navigation system standard
  • Comfortable seating for 6

Ford F-150 Interior

  • Standard 12-inch touchscreen
  • Updated BlueCruise hands-free driving
  • Practical layout
  • Seating configuration varies (bench vs bucket)

Ford wins on technology, while RAM wins on luxury feel.

Winner: Tie
Comfort = RAM | Tech = Ford

Safety Ratings

CategoryRAM 1500Ford F-150
Front Crash45
Side Crash55

Ford’s stronger frontal crash score gives it a small advantage.

Winner: Ford F-150

Dimensions & Practicality

SpecRAM 1500Ford F-150
Bed Length76.3 in78.9 in
Curb Weight4,872 lbs4,391 lbs
Wheelbase140.5 in122.8 in
Doors42

Ford’s lighter weight and longer bed help with efficiency and usability.

Winner: Ford F-150

Fuel Economy

  • RAM 1500: 17 city / 25 highway
  • Ford F-150: 16 city / 24 highway

RAM edges out Ford slightly.

Winner: RAM 1500

Reliability & Ownership Experience

Ford F-150

  • America’s best-selling truck
  • Easy access to parts
  • More independent repair shops familiar with Ford
  • Strong resale value

RAM 1500

  • Excellent build quality in recent years
  • Interior durability stands out
  • Slightly higher repair costs long-term

Winner: Ford F-150

Verdict: Which Is the Better Used Truck in Columbus, NE?

Choose the Ford F-150 if you want:

✔ More power
✔ Better safety ratings
✔ Strong resale value
✔ More used inventory
✔ Work-focused durability

Choose the RAM 1500 if you want:

✔ Smoother ride
✔ More refined interior
✔ Slightly better fuel economy
✔ Premium daily-driver feel

Final Winner: Ford F-150 (By a Narrow Margin)

While the RAM 1500 excels in comfort and ride quality, the Ford F-150 wins overall due to:

  • Stronger engine options
  • Better safety performance
  • Greater used inventory in Columbus, NE
  • Proven long-term reliability
  • Better value for work and resale

For most used-truck shoppers in Columbus, Nebraska, the Ford F-150 remains the safer, more versatile investment—especially if towing, hauling, or long-term ownership matter.

Looking for Used Ford F-150 or RAM 1500 Trucks in Columbus, NE?

Compare local listings, pricing trends, and vehicle history reports to find the right truck for your needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Ford F-150 is the better overall choice for most buyers due to stronger engine options, better safety ratings, higher resale value, and more availability on the used market. The RAM 1500 is better if ride comfort and interior refinement are your top priorities.

Historically, the Ford F-150 has a stronger long-term reliability record, with easier access to parts, lower ownership costs, and a larger service network. The RAM 1500 has improved significantly in recent years but may cost slightly more to maintain over time.

The RAM 1500 has a higher maximum towing capacity (10,520 lbs), but the Ford F-150 offers more consistent towing capability across trims, with a higher standard towing rating. For most Nebraska drivers, the F-150 is more practical for regular towing.

The RAM 1500 is better for daily driving, thanks to its smoother suspension and quieter ride. If comfort and commuting are your main concerns, RAM has the edge.

The RAM 1500 slightly outperforms the Ford F-150 in fuel economy, achieving up to 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, compared to Ford’s 16 MPG city and 24 MPG highway.

The Ford F-150 holds its resale value better than the RAM 1500. Its popularity, reliability, and demand make it one of the strongest trucks for long-term value retention.

Yes. The Ford F-150 received a higher front crash safety rating than the RAM 1500, while both scored equally in side-impact testing.

The Ford F-150 has significantly more used listings available in the Columbus area, giving buyers more options for price, mileage, trim levels, and features.

The Ford F-150 is better suited for work, offering stronger engine options, higher payload capacity, and better support for towing and hauling heavy loads.

The RAM 1500 has a more upscale interior, with higher-quality materials and a more comfortable cabin feel. The Ford F-150 focuses more on durability and technology.

Yes. Used 2024 Ford F-150 and RAM 1500 models offer modern safety features, updated technology, and strong performance while avoiding the steep depreciation of buying new.

Both trucks perform well in winter conditions when equipped with 4WD and proper tires, but the Ford F-150’s lighter weight and safety tech give it a slight edge for snowy and icy roads.

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