2008 Full-Size Truck Comparison

Sizes and Weights
Dimensions are generally similar, though the regular-cab F-150 is a bit longer than its rivals. Toyota makes the longest extended-cab short-bed model, while the Silverado takes the lead among Crew Cabs. Toyota and Nissan trucks have longer wheelbases than equivalent models from Chevrolet, Dodge, and Ford.


Weights don't differ by much—though comparisons are complicated by the diversity of cargo-bed lengths, wheelbase sizes, and cab styles. No other pickup approaches the weight of the Dodge Ram Mega Cab, which tops three tons.

Engines, Transmissions, and Mileage
Each full-size pickup comes with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Except for the Titan, each model is available with a choice of V-6 or V-8 engines. Buyers who want a manual transmission must choose a Dodge or Ford pickup with a V–6.


In the Dodge Ram 1500, a standard 3.7-liter V-6 produces 215 horsepower, driving a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The newly available 4.7-liter V-8, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, delivers 310 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque–a 31-percent power boost. Dodge also offers the big Hemi 5.7-liter V-8, whipping up 345 horsepower and 375 pound-feet, mating with a five-speed automatic.


Ford's F-150 comes with a 4.2-liter V-6, 4.6-liter V-8, or a 5.4-liter V-8 with flex-fuel (E85) capability. The 5.4-liter V-8 generates 300 horsepower, versus 248 for the 4.6-liter. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard with V-8 power, but V-6 models may have a five-speed manual gearbox.


Chevrolet gives the Silverado a choice of 4.3-liter V-6, 4.8-liter V-8, 5.3-liter V-8 (E85-capable) with a 315-horsepower rating, or an optional 367-horsepower, 6.0-liter V-8. All models use a four-speed automatic transmission.


Toyota's Tundra may have a 4.0-liter V-6, 4.7-liter V-8, or 5.7-liter V-8. Outputs are 236, 271, and 381 horsepower, respectively. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard except with the 5.7-liter V-8, which gets a six-speed.


Every 2008 Nissan Titan contains a 5.6-liter V-8 and a five-speed automatic transmission. The Endurance V-8 delivers 317 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque, with flex-fuel operation possible.


According to estimates from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Silverado 1500 with V-6/manual scores the best, rated at 15 mpg in city driving and 20 mpg on the highway. Several competitors come close, though. A V-6 Tundra with 2WD earns a 15/19 mpg estimate. Dodge gets a 14/19 mpg estimate for the V-6 2WD Ram with automatic.


Nissan takes the overall fuel-economy booby prize, with a 12/17 mpg estimate for its single powertrain. But Dodge's 4WD Ram with the 4.7-liter V-8 and manual shift manages only 12/16 mpg.