What To Know
- Both the Tacoma and the Raptor have a reputation for reliability, but the Tacoma has a slight edge in this category.
- While the Raptor is the undisputed champion in terms of off-road performance, the Tacoma is the more practical and economical choice for many buyers.
- The Tacoma has slightly better gas mileage than the Raptor, with an EPA rating of 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway compared to the Raptor’s 15 mpg in the city and 18….
When it comes to off-roading prowess, two titans stand head and shoulders above the rest: the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford Raptor. Both vehicles boast legendary capabilities and a loyal following among adventure enthusiasts. But which one is truly the king of the off-road? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Toyota Tacoma against the Ford Raptor and determine which vehicle reigns supreme in various aspects of off-roading.
Off-Road Performance
Suspension: The Ford Raptor takes the edge in suspension, featuring Fox Racing Shox with Live Valve Technology. This advanced system automatically adjusts damping based on terrain conditions, providing exceptional handling and stability on rough trails. While the Tacoma’s suspension is also capable, it lacks the sophistication of the Raptor’s system.
Ground Clearance: The Raptor boasts a slightly higher ground clearance of 11.8 inches compared to the Tacoma’s 9.4 inches. This extra ground clearance gives the Raptor an advantage in navigating obstacles and traversing uneven terrain.
Traction Control: Both vehicles offer advanced traction control systems, but the Raptor’s Terrain Management System with six selectable modes gives it an edge. The Tacoma’s A-TRAC system is also impressive, but it falls short of the Raptor’s versatility.
Engine and Transmission
Power: The Raptor’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine delivers a whopping 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, making it the more powerful of the two. The Tacoma’s 3.5-liter V6 produces 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, which is still respectable but pales in comparison to the Raptor.
Transmission: Both vehicles offer a 10-speed automatic transmission, but the Raptor’s transmission is tuned for off-road performance, providing smoother shifts and better response at low speeds.
Interior and Features
Comfort: The Raptor’s interior is more spacious and comfortable than the Tacoma’s, with ample headroom and legroom for passengers. The Tacoma’s interior is more utilitarian, with less focus on comfort.
Infotainment: The Raptor’s 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system is larger and more advanced than the Tacoma’s 7-inch touchscreen. The Raptor’s system offers a wider range of features, including navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Safety Features: Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. However, the Raptor has a slight edge with additional features such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.
Towing and Payload Capacity
Towing Capacity: The Raptor’s towing capacity is significantly higher than the Tacoma’s, at 8,200 pounds compared to 6,800 pounds. This makes the Raptor a better choice for towing heavy loads, such as boats or trailers.
Payload Capacity: The Raptor’s payload capacity is also higher, at 1,200 pounds compared to the Tacoma’s 1,170 pounds. This means the Raptor can carry more weight in the bed, which is important for hauling gear or equipment.
Reliability and Resale Value
Reliability: Both the Tacoma and the Raptor have a reputation for reliability, but the Tacoma has a slight edge in this category. Toyota vehicles consistently rank highly in reliability surveys, and the Tacoma is no exception.
Resale Value: The Tacoma also holds its value better than the Raptor, making it a more economical choice in the long run. Tacomas typically depreciate less than Raptors, which means you’ll get a better return on your investment when you sell it.
The Verdict
Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford Raptor depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road performance, suspension capability, and towing capacity, the Ford Raptor is the clear winner. However, if you value reliability, resale value, and a more affordable price point, the Toyota Tacoma is the better choice.
Final Note: The King of Off-Road
Both the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford Raptor are exceptional off-road vehicles that offer unique advantages and drawbacks. While the Raptor is the undisputed champion in terms of off-road performance, the Tacoma is the more practical and economical choice for many buyers. Ultimately, the best decision depends on your individual requirements and preferences.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which vehicle has better gas mileage?
A: The Tacoma has slightly better gas mileage than the Raptor, with an EPA rating of 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway compared to the Raptor’s 15 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which vehicle has a longer warranty?
A: The Tacoma has a longer warranty than the Raptor, with a 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty compared to the Raptor’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Q: Which vehicle is better for everyday driving?
A: The Tacoma is better for everyday driving than the Raptor, as it provides a more comfortable ride, better fuel economy, and a more affordable price point.