Interesting comparison F250 vs F250 - axle ratio

[ib516]

So Pickuptrucks.com did some testing in 2010 at Milan Dragway in one of their comparisons, and again in 2014 using the same place.

Both times an F250 with the 6.2L V8 gas engine was tested. In the 2010 Shootout, they used a 2011 model, and in 2014, they used a 2014 model. Both were rated at the same 385hp/405tq.

The only difference between the trucks was that one had a 3.73 axle (2014), and the other had a 4.30 axle (2011).

Here are the comparisons:

0-60:
3.73 axle truck - 9.03 sec
4.30 axle truck - 9.80 sec

1/4 mile:
3.73 axle truck - 17.2 sec @ 83.4 mph
4.30 axle truck - 17.5 sec @ 84.3 mph

I would have thought the 4.30 geared truck would have been faster accelerating than the 3.73 truck. Same cab & body style, both 4x4 automatics with the same transmission.

The same thing happened when Pickuptrucks.com tested two GM 1500s, each with the 6.2L V8. The 3.42 truck was slightly slower accelerating than the 3.23 truck. Weird.

Now, for those of you keyboard warriors that are getting ready to type "I didn't buy my truck to drag race" or, "who cares about 0-60 times?"
Save it. It's just a discussion. Take your heart meds and go back to watching the Price is Right. :B

References:
2014 test - 3.73 axle

2010 test - 4.30 axle

GM vs GM / 3.23 vs 3.42

[time2roll]

Do these trucks lose traction at the start?
I am thinking the 4.30 was a bad launch for attempting to control wheel spin.

[nohurry]

Like to see them do it towing 8,000 lbs. Anyway, remember the long thread recently about horse power? Both trucks had same HP. 4:30 is going to be quicker off the line, but the shift points are going to be different, and given enough length (1/4 mile)? The taller gears WILL catch up.

[wing_zealot]

If they would have used a 4:10 gear it probably would have been fastest. But also, there are a lot of computer checks to ensure the motor don't hurt itself; drag racer's don't so much worry about that.

[ib516]

Yes they both use the same trans with the same ratios.

[IdaD]

That surprises me too. I always thought lower axle ratio meant faster acceleration. Are the transmission ratios the same?