​Ford 7.3 Gas vs. 6.7 Diesel: Everything You Need to Know

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The Ford Motor Company represents the crème de la crème of the American auto industry, offering some of the most trusted vehicles on the market today. The Ford F-Series remains the best-selling pickup truck in the country for the 46th consecutive year in a row. The Super Duty F-250, F-350, and F-450 come with an ultra-compact and powerful 6.7 Powerstroke engine.

Many haulers and towers wouldn’t be caught dead driving anything else, but the company unveiled the 7.3L PFI “Godzilla” Engine in 2020 to much fanfare, giving the Ford diesel line a run for its money. Learn about the differences between the Ford 7.3 gas vs. 6.7 diesel to get the most bang for your buck.

Power

The Ford 7.3 gas gets up to 430 horsepower at 5,500 revolutions per minute (RPM) and a best-in-class torque of 475 ft.-lb. at 4,000 RPM. The 7.3-liter V8 engine also uses an overhead valve design to produce more power at lower RPMs to help you haul heaving loads from rest.

Meanwhile, the turbocharged 6.7 Powerstroke delivers up to 330 HP at 2,600 RPM and a peak torque of 725 ft.-lb. @ 1,800 RPM.

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If you don’t do much towing and tend to drive at higher speeds, the Ford 7.3 gas wins out, thanks to its naturally aspirated engine. However, the 6.7 Powerstroke sets the standard for torque and hauling, helping you do the job in record time with less wear and tear on your truck.

These specifications aren’t guaranteed. Power will vary based on the condition of the engine. The “Godzilla” will likely be new or gently used, considering it’s only been around a few years. But you might need to replace the direct diesel fuel injectors on a used 6.7 Powerstroke to keep these figures in reach.

The same is true of the high-pressure oil pump (HPOP) on Powerstroke diesel engines. It pumps the oil throughout the engine, working in sync with the turbocharger and fuel injectors. A clogged or worn-down HPOP will reduce power. You might also notice speed fluctuations at different RPMs. Shop for replacement HPOPs online to resolve the issue.

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Efficiency

The latest 6.7 Powerstroke gets a combined average fuel efficiency between 12-18 MPG, giving it a narrow win. The Ford 7.3 gas engine is comparable, getting 8-14 miles out of every gallon, with some drivers getting up to 17 MPG on the highway. The difference may not mean all that much, considering diesel fuel is slightly more expensive than gas. Fuel efficiency ratings will also vary based on the condition of the engine, speed, and the overall weight of the vehicle.

Durability

Both engines feature a modern, ultra-durable construction to weather the test of time, although diesel engines are known to last longer than gas-powered models, and the 6.7 Powerstroke is no exception. The company has made various modifications over the years, bringing the F-Series to new heights. Expect the 6.7 Powerstroke to last up to a million miles or more, thanks to its graphite iron (CGI) deep-skirt engine block and aluminum cylinder heads. It also uses dual water jackets for enhanced cooling and high-pressure common-rail fuel injectors for a smoother ride. Ford Powerstroke engines may need a new EGR cooler after a few thousand miles due to technical issues. It is a part of the vehicle’s emissions reduction system, designed to reduce air pollution. Replace the 6.7 EGR cooler to prevent the engine from overheating. The 7.3 gas is a newer engine, so the jury is out in terms of how long it will last. It is made with materials similar to those of the diesel F-Series line, which could help it last up to 300,000 miles or more.

Final Thoughts

The Ford 7.3 gas engine is about as close as gas gets to the power and durability of diesel. These engines have more in common than they do apart, but the 6.7 Powerstroke excels in terms of power, efficiency, and performance. However, the Ford 7.3 is a fine alternative if you’d rather stick with gas. Want to learn more about the Ford 6.7 Powerstroke? Compare the 6.7 Powerstroke vs. 6.7 Cummins to find the best diesel engine for the job.