SRW Vs. DRW: What Are the Differences?
With both acronyms defined, let's examine the less apparent differences. In this section, we'll compare the physical and performance characteristics of both truck types and discuss why you may want to consider one over the other.
First, let's compare the footprints of both trucks. With an additional two wheels and widened rear bedsides, a DRW truck is considerably wider than a SRW. Take, for example, the 2025 Ford F-350.
In SRW configuration, the truck features a modest rear track width of 67.2 inches and total width of 80 inches. While not the narrowest vehicle on the planet, this width is easily managed in tight parking lots and narrow streets.
Alternatively, the same truck in a DRW configuration is 96 inches wide with a 74-inch rear track width. That additional width can make simple tasks, like parking, maneuvering tight streets, and staying within the lanes on the freeway, challenging. If you're in the market for a truck that'll be driven daily, especially if you live near an urban area, a SRW truck is much more driver-friendly.
When it comes to towing, a DRW pickup undoubtedly shines. The added track width and two additional rear wheels significantly stabilize the truck on bumpy roads or during windy conditions, especially while hauling. The added wheels also distribute weight more evenly, delivering higher towing capacities.
That's not to say SRW pickups deliver poor towing performance. For most truck owners' needs, like towing a sizable travel trailer or utility trailer, a SRW pickup will perform perfectly well. However, if you routinely test the limits of your truck's towing capacity, a DRW pickup will offer improved stability and a superior ride.
Next, let's talk about payload capacities. Typically, DRW trucks have a higher payload capacity due to the beefed-up rear axle and two additional tires, which better distribute heavier loads. Once again, that's not to say a SRW truck performs poorly with a heavy load in the bed—just that a DRW truck performs better.
If you frequently haul heavy loads nearing your truck's payload capacity, a DRW truck will deliver improved stability and performance.
Class and Weight Rating
Pickup trucks typically fall into one of three categories—Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3. These classes are determined by the vehicle's GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating), or the maximum weight a vehicle can safely carry, including its passengers, cargo, fuel, and tongue weight. The classes are structured as follows:
The list goes on to include eight classes reaching 33,001 pounds or above. However, for the sake of this topic, we'll only consider the lower three. DRW and SRW trucks often fall into two different classes. Several ¾ ton trucks, for example, are Class 2, whereas most 1-ton trucks are considered Class 3.
These classes often carry different weight, registration, and insurance fees, so keep that in mind if you're in the market for a new heavy-duty pickup truck. Your choice won't just affect your wallet during the initial purchase but also annually.
Price
Price is also a factor between both trucks. When bumping up to a 1-ton DRW truck, expect to spend an average of five thousand dollars for the two additional wheels. Depending on your needs and budget, this may be a negligible difference or an unnecessary cost.
Cost of Maintenance
Lastly, let's discuss the cost of maintenance. While a DRW truck doesn't require maintenance any more frequently than a SRW truck, the price of said maintenance or upgrades may increase. For example, when replacing or upgrading tires, you'll need to factor in the cost of two additional tires (six compared to four).
DRW trucks may also feature higher-output engines, beefier differentials, and larger brakes to accommodate heavier loads. While these features are beneficial for towing and hauling, they may require more frequent and expensive maintenance.
