While it costs around 3x, the specifications of an Mercedes-Benz Atego 1725A truck with 6.4 turbo diesel with approximately 250 hp and 660 ft-lbs (6 cylinder OM-906LA) are: truck bed and payload capacity of ~26.000 lb plus conventional towing capacity of ~40.000 lbs. That capacities should be similar to an US spec Unimog U 500.

Ford has a payload capacity of ~5000 lbs and can tow conventionally 16000 lbs, or 24.500 lbs with fifth wheel.

The payload would be related to axles with more capacity, however since the F-450 has bigger engine (6.7 Ford V8 with 400 hp and 800 ft-lbs) why it also has lower towing capacity?

How much lower is the consumption of the F-450 compared to a truck while towing the same 24000 lbs?

Thanks in advance for any related comments.

 

Just from looking at the pictures since the Merc is a cabover that would allow a lot more GVWR. I am also guessing it has a larger frame larger axles and larger brakes as well as larger tires. F450's only have 19.5 rims. Towing capacity takes all things into account, braking, frame strength, wheel rating, axle rating, transmission etc etc.

From the looks of that Merc it would be far more comparable to a F650 or F750.

 

Another consideration that Ford takes into consideration is registration and licensing requirements. When capacities go up drivers license requirements get more complicated, and putting plates on the back of the thing gets more expensive, along with insurance etc etc. Plates for my 450 cost $250 for 1 yr.

Ford rates the axle in the back of my truck at 9500# Part of that I'm sure is because of the tires they put on it, but also with all of the above in mind. The axle manufacturer otoh rates the axle at 14,500#.

The truck you are talking about is in a whole other class and makes no bones about the market it is intended for.

 

The Mercedes requires a CDL for most situations. The F-450 does not.

 

Also the 6.7 is way overpowered for a 26k gross vehicle. Ive driven vehicles that are at (or a bit over!) 26k and have less than 300ftlb tq.