When it comes to off-road trucks, there is no more-formidable truck than the Ford F-150 Raptor. It’s been in production for the past decade and has taken the throne as America’s favorite desert-runner since its introduction. And while the F-150 Raptor is tough to compete with, the RAM Rebel sure does hold its own. Here are five ways in which the RAM Rebel is actually better than the Ford F-150 Raptor.

A powerful V8 engine

We know, the Ford F-150 Raptor does have a twin-turbo V6 that churns out more power than the RAM Rebel, however, we will say that there is nothing like the sound of a V8. Horsepower and torque numbers are one thing, especially on paper, but feeling and hearing the sound of eight cylinders as you rip up the loose gravel off-road is downright sublime.

Speaking of power, the available V8 engine is none other than a 5.7-liter HEMI that puts out 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. One trick that RAM has up its sleeve is the eTorque system that assists this pavement-pounding truck, which provides an occasional boost of up to 130 lb-ft of torque.

A more stylish interior

We can admit that the Ford F-150 Raptor’s interior definitely means business with its Recaro seats and a multitude of carbon fiber trim, however, the RAM Rebel takes a more sophisticated approach, as long as you like red. If you do, then you can opt for the “Rebel 12” package that includes luxury-trimmed bucket seats, a premium 19-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system, a 12-inch infotainment display, and a healthy dose of red trim. We said “sophisticated,” not “classy.”

Exterior styling

That more “sophisticated” look extends to the exterior as well, as the RAM Rebel isn’t as “in your face” aggressive as the F-150 Raptor. Sure, this might be the dedicated off-road trim level, but you’re still planning to drive it on the street. So if you’re not looking to make it seem like you compete in the Championship Off-Road Series every weekend, then the RAM Rebel could have the styling that you’re looking for. If you need something more aggressive, then we suggest the “Black Appearance package” that blacks out all the trim pieces.   

Lower starting price

The Ford F-150 has a starting price of $55,150, but when you option it up and choose the higher trim level, that price can easily head toward the $70,000 mark. However, the RAM Rebel starts at $44,435 and when you option it out with the V8 engine, the Multi-function tailgate, and the RamBox cargo system, you’re still looking at around $60,000, which is far less.

Multi-function Tailgate and RamBox

The RAM Rebel is available with a Multi-function tailgate that has a split-fold design for a variety of opening solutions. This means that there’s no need to worry about getting more cargo in it when you’re in a tight parking situation or have a trailer hooked up. Also, the RamBox provides a very handy storage solution right on the edge of the cargo bed.

The RAM Rebel provides versatile competition

While the Ford F-150 Raptor is easily one of the best off-road trucks of all time, short of a dedicated Baja racer, the RAM Rebel offers up some versatile competition thanks to its handsome styling inside and out, as well it’s storage options. While we might not be able to say the RAM is better in all regards, it sure does provide a great alternative to anyone looking for a more off-road worthy truck.