Ford F-150 Vs. Chevy Silverado 1500: Which Truck To Buy?
The Ford F-150 vs. Chevy Silverado 1500 matchup is one of the most competitive in the full-size truck segment. Both models deliver powerful engine options, impressive towing capabilities, and a wide range of trims tailored for both work and recreation. That said, the team at Wallace Ford of Kingsport takes a closer look at this fierce rivalry – and highlights how the Ford F-150 stands out in the areas that matter most to today's truck buyers. See for yourself below.
2025 Ford F-150 vs. Chevy Silverado 1500 at a Glance
- The 2025 Ford F-150 commands attention with six engine choices, giving it an edge in powertrain variety over the four available powertrains in the Silverado 1500 lineup.
- The F-150 leads with a maximum towing capacity of 13,500 pounds1, surpassing the Silverado 1500's 13,300-pound capability2 and then drives it home with a higher available payload rating.
- Both trucks supply excellent versatility with three cab configurations and three available bed lengths, making them equally adaptable for tasks or trails.
- The F-150 harnesses up to 720 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque with its available supercharged V-8, far exceeding the Silverado 1500's peak output of 420 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque – two specs that come from different engines, we might add.
Ford F-150 vs. Chevy Silverado 1500: Trims & Configurations
Both trucks provide a broad selection of trims, balancing utility and comfort across the spectrum. In terms of cab styles, these rivals provide three main varieties: Regular Cab, Super Cab (Ford) or Double Cab (Chevy), and SuperCrew (Ford) or Crew Cab (Chevy). Depending on the cab configuration, the F-150 and Silverado 1500 can seat between three and six passengers.
Each pickup also provides multiple bed length options to suit hauling requirements. The Ford F-150 comes with 5.5-, 6.5-, and 8-foot beds, offering flexibility from maneuverable city haulers to maximum cargo capacity. The Silverado 1500 matches this multi-functionality with similar bed sizes.
For off-road enthusiasts, the F-150 Raptor and Silverado 1500 ZR2 provide rugged capability with trail-ready features like skid plates, off-road tires, and retuned suspension systems. However, digging deeper reveals the F-150 Raptor pulls ahead with standard 35-inch tires and an available supercharged V-8 engine that surpasses the ZR2 in both horsepower and torque.
Starting out, the Ford F-150 vs. Chevy Silverado 1500 comparison shows a well-rounded selection of trims, cabs, and beds, giving buyers the freedom to tailor their truck. However, as we dive into the performance and raw muscle showcased by each truck, we start to see why the new Ford F-150 trucks are superior.
| 2025 Ford F-150 | 2025 Chevy Silverado 1500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options |
|
|
| Horsepower | 325 - 720 | 305 - 420 |
| Torque | 400 - 640 lb-ft | 383 - 495 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 8- or 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4x2 or 4x4 | 4x2 or 4x4 |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | Up to 22 / 24 / 233 | Up to 23 / 29 / 264 |
| Max. Towing Capacity | 13,500 lbs1 | 13,300 lbs2 |
| Max. Payload Capacity | 2,440 lbs5 | 2,260 lbs6 |
| Cab Styles | 3 | 3 |
| Bed Options | 3 | 3 |
| Seating Capacity | 3 - 6 | 3 - 6 |
Ford F-150 vs. Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Specs
While the Silverado 1500 is a strong competitor with solid specs, in terms of raw strength, the Ford F-150 offers more capability where it counts.
The Silverado 1500 has four engines, starting with its 310-horsepower standard 2.7-liter TurboMax. It reaches up to 420 horsepower with the 6.2-liter V-8, but its available Duramax 3.0-liter turbo-diesel is lackluster, topping out at 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque.
No matter how you slice it, the Ford F-150 delivers more. With six available powertrains – including a 720-horsepower supercharged V-8 – the F-150 starts stronger and finishes in a class of its own. In fact, Chevy's diesel engine can't even keep up with four of the six F–150 engines in torque alone. From 325 horsepower in the base 2.7-liter EcoBoost to the jaw-dropping 5.2-liter supercharged V-8 with 720 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque, the F-150 dominates under the hood.
Cementing its lead even further, the F-150 comes out ahead in our Ford F-150 vs. Chevy Silverado 1500 towing capacity comparison. While the Silverado 1500 achieves up to 13,300 pounds of towing2 and 2,260 pounds of payload strength,6 the F-150 edges it out with a 13,500-pound towing capacity1 and a 2,440-pound payload rating.5
It's not just the Silverado 1500 feeling the heat – the F-150 outshines other full-size trucks in its class. Once you're done here, don't miss our Ford F-150 vs. Ram 1500 comparison.
Ford F-150 Vs. Chevy Silverado 1500: Reliability & Safety
When it comes to reliability, the Ford F-150 holds a clear advantage over the Silverado 1500. According to Consumer Reports, the 2025 Ford F-150 earns a higher Predicted Reliability rating as well as a higher overall score.7,8 This means Ford owners can generally expect fewer repairs and a more dependable driving experience over time.
Safety is a top priority for both of these full-size trucks – the 2025 Ford F-150 comes loaded with Ford Co-Pilot360™ 2.0, while the 2025 Silverado 1500 has standard Chevrolet Safety Assist. Overall, both pickups prioritize occupant protection and accident prevention, but the F-150 has more standard safety systems, including a BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert system.
Experience the 2025 Ford F-150: Built To Lead, Ready To Work
The 2025 Ford F-150 combines powerful performance and exceptional reliability to handle almost any challenge you might encounter. Ready to take on the daily grind or off-road fun, this truck stands out as the forerunner in its class. Don't miss your chance to own this exceptional pickup – explore our current Ford F-150 deals today and drive home a truck built to lead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which truck has better overall performance: the Ford F-150 or Chevy Silverado 1500?
In the Ford F-150 vs. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 performance comparison, the 2025 Ford F-150 takes the win. It delivers superior standard and maximum horsepower, greater maximum torque, and higher payload and towing capacities. Additionally, the F-150 has six different powertrains to choose from – including a 5.2-liter supercharged V-8 – while the Silverado 1500 provides four engine options.
Is the Ford F-150 more fuel-efficient than the Chevy Silverado 1500?
The 2025 Chevy Silverado 1500 is marginally more fuel-efficient than the Ford F-150, achieving up to an EPA-estimated 23/29/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)4 when equipped with the available turbo-diesel. The Ford F-150 follows closely, with up to an EPA-estimated 22/24/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)3 thanks to its 3.5-liter PowerBoost full-hybrid V-6.
Which truck has a better towing capacity: the Ford F-150 or Silverado 1500?
The 2025 Ford F-150 offers a higher maximum towing capacity than the Silverado 1500, reaching up to 13,500 pounds when properly equipped. The Chevy Silverado 1500 isn't far behind, with a maximum towing rating of 13,300 pounds.2 The F-150 also has a superior payload capacity of 2,440 pounds,5 compared to the Silverado 1500's 2,260 pounds.6
1When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
2Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
3EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary. On plug-in hybrid models and electric models, fuel economy is stated in MPGe. MPGe is the EPA equivalent measure of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric mode operation.
4EPA-estimated 23 city29 hwy Duramax 3.0-liter turbo-diesel I-6.
5Maximum payload capabilities are for properly equipped vehicles with required equipment and vary based on vehicle configuration, accessories, and option content. Horsepower, torque, payload and towing are independent attributes and may not be achieved simultaneously.
6For comparison purposes only. See the Owner's Manual and the label on the vehicle door jamb for the carrying capacity of a specific vehicle.
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/f-150/2025/overview/
8Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/chevrolet/silverado-1500/2025/overview/