Actually the engine braking on a Ford is the same as engine braking on a Dodge or GM. I think what you meant is that the exhaust braking is not true exhaust braking. You are correct, it is less effective than both Dodge and GM. Ford dumps exhaust into the intake to starve the engine, where Dodge and GM use the vanes on the turbo, which is closer to, but still not a Jake brake. It is well documented that GM and Dodge have better perfomance of their exhuast braking than Ford. Now that I own a Ford, i have to agree that it (exhaust braking) is worthless, but everything else makes up for it and I love my Ford.
You don't need a 4x4 if you absolutely never intend to need to back up a slope on a loose surface, or drive across spongy turf, or climb a rock ledge, or go places that you can't with a 2WD. On the other hand, if you push the envelope every now and then, why not. You will get most of your money back at resale.