2021 Ram ProMaster VS 2021 Ford Transit

 Yet another choice of cargo van. But, is the Ram ProMaster better than its competition?

The Ram ProMaster is one of three main cargo vans you’ll see on the road. The other two most popular would be the Ford Transit, which I’m almost 100% sure you’ve already seen, and the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. The Ford Transit is currently the highest selling cargo style van in North America, and for good reason, it has a plethora of different options and configurations. The Mercedes Sprinter, is currently the most common choice among hipsters looking to go travelling in a “build it yourself” van. So why choose the ProMaster over either one?

Today, we are going to try and figure that out together, with a little comparison. For every point I make with the ProMaster, I will provide a counterpoint with the Ford Transit.

2021 Ford Transit

2021 Ram ProMaster

Van Capability.

When I say van capability, what I am trying to say is; are they capable of being transportation vans for passengers and/or cargo. With the Ram ProMaster, you are stuck with only one of the two options: cargo transport. The Ford Transit, however, offers both passenger capability and cargo. In the Ford Transit, you have the option of adding over 10 seats for passengers, or using it for cargo space only, keeping in mind that you can also add or remove seats as you choose. 

Cargo and passenger space.

Because the ProMaster is only capable of cargo transport, does it offer more space than the Transit? Well, yes and no. The ProMaster is available in different lengths, (as is the Transit) this means with the shortest wheelbase option you get just over 7,300-litres of cargo space and about 13,100-litres if you choose the longest wheelbase option. For the Transit? The least available space is 2,846-litres (with all 15 passengers and the longest wheelbase option) or 15,189-litres with only the front bench for seating. Again, keeping in mind that you can add or remove the seating for more cargo space. However, if you choose the shortest wheelbase option for the Transit, and no additional seating, you only have 6,985-litres of cargo space, thus giving the lead to the ProMaster for the short wheelbase option.

2021 Ford Transit

2021 Ram ProMaster

Power and drivetrain.

Disappointingly, the Ram ProMaster is again only available with one option; a 3.6l V6 that makes 280hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. For transmission options, you only get one, a FWD 6-speed automatic. As for the Ford, you have, two engine choices; 3.5l V6 putting out 275hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, or you can have it with a 3.5l turbo V6, that makes 310hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. Both of which come with the same 10-speed automatic shared with the F-150, and additionally, you have the option for either RWD or AWD. 

Technology.

The ProMaster has introduced a cool feature in the rear-view mirror where you can have real-time video play through for great visibility in the rear of the vehicle for either parking, monitoring, or any other reason you might need to look out the back. With that, you also get; adaptive cruise control, advanced brake assist and electronic stability control to help when cross winds are high (something Mercedes-Benz has had since 2014, and something you also get in the Transit). Most of that is pretty synonymous in the Ford transit, so I won’t go through renaming all of the options. 

2021 Ford Transit

2021 Ram ProMaster

Price.

Here, I will give the range of prices available for both vans just because there is over 17 options and configurations for the ProMaster, and over 80 options and configurations for the Transit. The ProMaster has a starting price of $37,170CAD but can be configured to $45,170CAD, there are ways to bring the price even higher by adding on additional options but, they are all extras. For the Ford, the starting price is $40,095CAD and again, can be configured to $67,055CAD (with additional options to increase the price as well). Note the gap between both prices and just how it goes show the increased amount options and configurations available for the Ford Transit.

Conclusion.

All that said, is there a clear winner between these two vans? I think it comes down to the individual who is shopping for a cargo van in the first place. If you are someone who doesn’t like having a billion different options to choose from and you want something simple that will get the job done, there is no reason the Ram ProMaster can’t suite that. However, keep in mind that if your needs ever change, you are limited. As for the Ford Transit, with how configurable it is, it’s hard to beat, and that is certainly why it is class leader in the cargo/transportation van category. But, say you want something with the space of a Transit, and the comfort and drive of a luxury car, then you also have the option of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Whatever your needs, one of these vans is suited for you. Hopefully this article helped a little in showcasing some of the difference between the vans and will make your trip to the dealer that much easier.

2021 Ford Transit