The Ford F-350 Super Duty V Crew Cab Long Box with the 6.8-liter V8 engine and 4×4 automatic transmission represents a significant offering in Ford’s heavy-duty pickup truck lineup, introduced for the 2023 model year. This variant is part of the fifth generation (2023-present) of the Super Duty series, known for its robust construction, substantial towing capacity, and advanced technology. Positioned as a workhorse for demanding tasks, the F-350 with this configuration caters to owners needing a powerful and capable truck for both commercial and personal use. The “DRW” designation indicates a Dual Rear Wheel configuration, further enhancing its hauling and stability capabilities.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-350 Super Duty |
| Generation | F-350 Super Duty V Crew Cab Long box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.8 V8 (405 Hp) 4×4 Automatic DRW |
| Start of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 120.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 179.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 405 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 603 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 444.75 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 6801 cm3, 415.02 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 107.19 mm, 4.22 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 93.98 mm, 3.7 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.57 l, 8 US qt | 6.66 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 3353 kg, 7392.1 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2223 l, 78.5 cu. ft |
| Fuel tank capacity | 182 l, 48.08 US gal | 40.03 UK gal |
| Length | 6761 mm, 266.18 in |
| Width | 2438 mm, 95.98 in |
| Width including mirrors | 2690 mm, 105.91 in |
| Height | 2070 mm, 81.5 in |
| Wheelbase | 4468 mm, 175.91 in |
| Front track | 1765 mm, 69.49 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1910 mm, 75.2 in |
| Front overhang | 973 mm, 38.31 in |
| Rear overhang | 1270 mm, 50 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 249 mm, 9.8 in |
| Approach angle | 27.7° |
| Departure angle | 20.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.7° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Dependent spring suspension with anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 363 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 363 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/75 R17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the F-350 Super Duty DRW is Ford’s 7.3-liter “Godzilla” V8 gasoline engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, overhead valve design, known for its robust construction and relatively simple design compared to more modern, turbocharged engines. The 7.3L engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine produces 405 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 444.75 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s architecture prioritizes low-end torque, making it well-suited for heavy hauling and towing. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, a crucial component in managing the engine’s power and providing a wide range of gear ratios for optimal performance and efficiency. This transmission allows for smooth shifting and helps keep the engine in its optimal power band.
Driving Characteristics
The F-350 Super Duty DRW with the 7.3L V8 and 10-speed automatic delivers a driving experience focused on capability and stability. While not designed for outright speed, the engine provides ample power for accelerating with a load or maintaining highway speeds. The 10-speed transmission is well-tuned, offering quick and smooth shifts. The Dual Rear Wheel configuration significantly enhances stability, particularly when towing heavy trailers. Compared to lighter-duty F-150 models, the F-350 feels more substantial and planted on the road. The steering is hydraulic, providing a direct and responsive feel, although it may require more effort at low speeds. The suspension, designed for heavy loads, can feel firm when the truck is unloaded, but it effectively absorbs bumps and vibrations when carrying a payload.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-350 Super Duty V Crew Cab Long Box typically comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features. The Crew Cab configuration provides spacious seating for six passengers. Standard features often include air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels, such as Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum, add premium features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, and a premium sound system. Optional extras include a power moonroof, a bed liner, and various towing packages. The DRW configuration is often paired with heavier-duty suspension and axles to handle the increased load capacity.
Chassis & Braking
The F-350 Super Duty utilizes a robust body-on-frame construction, providing a solid foundation for heavy-duty work. The front suspension features a multi-link design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs a leaf spring setup. This combination provides a balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even when the truck is heavily loaded. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The DRW configuration adds additional braking capacity to handle the increased weight and load.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2023 Ford F-350 Super Duty DRW with the 7.3L V8 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, robust construction, and impressive towing capacity. Compared to other heavy-duty trucks in its class, such as the Ram 3500 and Chevrolet Silverado 3500, the F-350 was often noted for its strong engine and user-friendly technology. Fuel economy, as expected for a heavy-duty truck, is not a strong point, but it is comparable to other trucks in the segment. Reliability has been generally good, with the 7.3L engine proving to be a durable and dependable powerplant.
Legacy
The 7.3L “Godzilla” V8 engine has quickly gained a reputation as a reliable and powerful workhorse. Its relatively simple design and robust construction contribute to its longevity. In the used car market, F-350 Super Duty models equipped with this engine are highly sought after by those needing a capable and dependable truck. The DRW configuration further enhances its appeal to those requiring maximum towing and hauling capacity. As Ford continues to innovate with its Super Duty lineup, the 2023 F-350 DRW with the 7.3L V8 represents a solid and capable offering in the heavy-duty truck segment, poised to remain a valuable asset for years to come.
