The RAM ProMaster and Ford Transit are the two most popular full-size cargo vans in America — and for good reason. Both are capable, customizable, and built for commercial use. But which one is right for your business? Let's break it down category by category. At Mix Cars in Fredericksburg, VA, we stock both brands so you can compare them in person.
Cargo Space
RAM ProMaster
The ProMaster offers up to 460 cubic feet of cargo space in the high-roof, extended-length configuration. Its standout feature is the widest cargo area in its class at 75 inches between the wheel wells — enough to fit standard pallets flat on the floor. The low load floor (21 inches) makes loading heavy items much easier.
Ford Transit
The Transit tops out at 487 cubic feetin the extended high-roof model, giving it the overall volume advantage. However, the cargo width between wheel wells is narrower at about 70 inches. The Transit also offers three roof heights versus the ProMaster's two, giving you more configuration options.
Winner: Ford Transit for total volume. RAM ProMaster for usable width and low loading height.
Payload Capacity
Both vans are closely matched on payload. The ProMaster maxes out at approximately 4,680 lbs, while the Transit tops out around 4,650 lbs in its heavy-duty configuration. For most small businesses, either van has more than enough payload capacity. The real-world difference comes down to how you configure the van and what upfitting you add.
Winner: Essentially a tie.
Fuel Economy
RAM ProMaster
The ProMaster comes standard with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 producing 280 hp and averaging 18-21 MPG depending on load and driving conditions. Its front-wheel-drive layout helps with efficiency compared to rear-wheel-drive competitors.
Ford Transit
The Transit offers multiple engine options: a 3.5L V6 (275 hp), a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (310 hp), and a 2.0L biturbo diesel option in some model years. Fuel economy ranges from 15-20 MPG depending on the engine and configuration. The diesel option delivers the best efficiency for highway-heavy routes.
Winner: RAM ProMaster for simplicity and consistent efficiency. Ford Transit if you pick the diesel.
Maintenance Costs
The ProMaster benefits from a simpler drivetrain — one engine option and front-wheel drive means fewer components to go wrong. Basic maintenance (oil changes, brakes, tires) is comparable between both vans. However, the ProMaster uses a European-designed platform (based on the Fiat Ducato), so some specialty parts can be more expensive.
The Transitbenefits from Ford's massive parts network and dealer infrastructure. Parts are widely available and generally affordable. Independent shops are also very familiar with Ford powertrains, which can keep maintenance costs lower over the long term.
Winner: Ford Transit for parts availability and long-term maintenance costs.
Driving Experience
The ProMaster'sfront-wheel-drive layout gives it a significantly tighter turning radius (36 feet vs. the Transit's 41+ feet), making it noticeably easier to maneuver in tight urban areas, parking garages, and loading docks. It drives more like a large car than a truck.
The Transit'srear-wheel-drive layout provides better traction under heavy loads and feels more stable at highway speeds. Many drivers prefer the Transit's driving dynamics for long-distance routes.
Winner: RAM ProMaster for city driving. Ford Transit for highway and heavy-load stability.
Used Market Pricing
On the used market, the ProMaster tends to be slightly more affordable than a comparably equipped Transit. A well-maintained 2019-2022 ProMaster typically runs $22,000-$32,000 depending on mileage and configuration. A similar Transit usually falls in the $25,000-$35,000 range. Both vans hold their value well due to strong commercial demand.
Winner: RAM ProMaster for upfront cost savings.
The Bottom Line
Choose the RAM ProMaster if you need maximum cargo width, a lower load floor, better city maneuverability, or a lower purchase price. Choose the Ford Transit if you need maximum total cargo volume, more engine and configuration options, easier long-term maintenance, or better highway stability.
Either way, both vans are proven commercial workhorses. The best way to decide is to drive them back to back — and you can do exactly that at Mix Cars. We also offer flexible financing and trade-in valuations to make upgrading your work van easy.
Compare Both Vans at Mix Cars
We have RAM ProMasters and Ford Transits in stock at 4606 Harrison Rd in Fredericksburg, VA. Come test drive both.