2009 Dodge Ram vs Ford F-150: The Truck Wars Revisited
2009 Dodge Ram 1500
2009 Ford F-150
Design & Styling: Then and Now
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Ram 1500 Design Highlights
- Signature crosshair grille with aggressive forward tilt
- Muscular fender flares with integrated turn signals
- Chiseled body lines inspired by semi trucks
- Available 20-inch wheels (uncommon in 2009)
F-150 Design Highlights
- Three-bar chrome grille mirroring Super Duty
- Taller hood profile for imposing presence
- Distinct trim packages (XL to Platinum)
- Integrated tailgate step (industry first)
2024 Perspective:
The Ram's bold styling has aged remarkably well, with its grille design influencing all subsequent generations. The F-150's more evolutionary approach established design language that persisted through two more generations. Today, the Ram's cab-forward proportions appear more modern, while the F-150's traditional silhouette reads as classic Americana.
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Interior & Technology: Luxury Comes to Work Trucks
Ram 1500 Interior Innovations
- RamBox storage system: Waterproof bedside compartments
- Chrysler's MyGIG: Early touchscreen infotainment
- Sirius Backseat TV: Kid-friendly rear entertainment
- Coil spring suspension: Car-like ride quality
F-150 Interior Advantages
- SYNC system: Early voice command technology
- Work Solutions: In-dash computer option
- Platinum trim: Genuine wood and leather
- SuperCrew cab: Class-leading rear legroom
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Performance & Capability: 15 Years Later
Ram 1500 Powertrains
- 3.7L V6: 215hp / 235 lb-ft
- 4.7L V8: 310hp / 330 lb-ft
- 5.7L HEMI V8: 390hp / 407 lb-ft
- Max Tow: 9,100 lbs
- MPG: 13 city / 19 highway (HEMI)
F-150 Powertrains
- 4.2L V6: 202hp / 260 lb-ft
- 4.6L V8: 248hp / 294 lb-ft
- 5.4L Triton V8: 310hp / 365 lb-ft
- Max Tow: 11,300 lbs
- MPG: 14 city / 18 highway (5.4L)
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Long-Term Reliability Findings:
The 5.7L HEMI has proven more durable than Ford's 5.4L Triton, which suffered from cam phaser and spark plug issues. However, the F-150's chassis and transmission have demonstrated superior longevity in high-mileage work applications. Today, well-maintained HEMI Rams command stronger resale values, while Triton-equipped F-150s are bargain buys.
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Safety & Driver Assistance
2009 Safety Features Compared
- Ford Advantage: Roll Stability Control (RSC)
- Ram Advantage: Standard trailer sway control
- Both offered: Side curtain airbags, ABS, stability control
Crash Test Results
- NHTSA Overall: F-150 4/5 stars, Ram 3/5 stars
- IIHS Moderate Overlap: Both "Good"
- Real-world data: F-150 shows 11% lower fatality rate
Ownership Experience: What Owners Report Today
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Ram 1500 Common Issues
- Manifold bolt failures (HEMI)
- Electrical gremlins (MyGIG system)
- Rear coil spring sagging
- Dashboard cracking (hot climates)
F-150 Common Issues
- Cam phaser failure (5.4L)
- Spark plug ejection (5.4L)
- Rust in cab corners
- Blend door actuator failures
2024 Buying Advice:
For budget buyers: Seek a well-documented 4.6L V8 F-150 (avoid 5.4L). For enthusiasts: The HEMI-powered Ram offers better performance and sound. Platinum/Raptor F-150s and Laramie/Rumble Bee Rams hold collector interest. Verify all recalls were addressed, especially Ford's spark plug and Ram's steering linkage campaigns.
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The Final Tally: Which Aged Better?
| Category | 2009 Winner | 2024 Perspective |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Ram | Ram's styling influence still evident today |
| Interior | Ram | F-150 materials holding up better over time |
| Towing | F-150 | F-150's max capacity still impressive |
| Technology | Tie | Both systems obsolete by modern standards |
| Reliability | N/A | F-150 (non-5.4L models) |
| Value | N/A | Ram (HEMI models) |
MotorVero's Final Verdict:
While the 2009 F-150 won more objective comparisons at launch, the Ram 1500 has aged into the more desirable classic truck thanks to its bold styling and the enduring appeal of the HEMI V8. For work use, a 4.6L V8 F-150 remains a dependable choice, but for weekend warriors and collectors, the Ram's character and sound give it the edge fifteen years later.
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