You might think a compact pickup will be more than enough. They're nearly the same, right? Besides a difference of scale, what do you get from a bigger truck? We can't speak for all pickup trucks everywhere, but there are some distinct advantages buying a 2019 Ford F-150 over getting, say, a Toyota Tacoma. It's more than just size. This comparison guide will go over those differences so you can get the truck that's best for you and your lifestyle.
Price: 2019 Toyota Tacoma
The price difference between the Ford F-150 and smaller Toyota Tacoma is just $2,600. How can that be? For starters, the XL base trim is designed to be a workhorse and little more. There are few amenities to see here. But that's not to say, the F-150 XL is stripped down to nothing. For just $28,150, standard features include automatic high beams, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and a rearview camera with Dynamic Hitch Assist. Notable options at this level include power windows and locks, MyKey, voice-activated SYNC infotainment system, USB port, and trailer brake assist. And let's not forget the optional tailgate step for easy access to the box.
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma starts at $25,500. For that price, you get cloth seats, power windows and door locks, 4.2-inch digital instrument display, and Entune infotainment system with 6.1-inch touch screen, six-speaker stereo, Bluetooth, USB port (plus two charging ports), Siri Eyes Free, and Toyota Safety Sense. As you can see, you get more standard tech in the Tacoma, but be aware that you get less towing capacity, less horsepower and torque, and less cargo room and passenger space.
Power and Towing: 2019 Ford F-150
The real reason to get a bigger pickup is to increase the work potential. The 2019 Ford F-150 can tow up to 13,200 pounds, when properly equipped. Meanwhile, the Toyota Tacoma tows only 6,800 pounds, or a little more than a good midsize SUV. The difference lies in their engines. Because while the Ford F-150 has more metal to carry, the larger size means it's possible to hold a bigger, better engine.
The Ford F-150 starts things off with a base 3.3-liter V6 engine that serves up 290 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. But there are four more engines, including a diesel and two twin-turbocharged options. The pinnacle of these engines is the Raptor trim's 395-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine, good for 400 pound-feet of torque. At the other end, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma has only two engine options, your choice of a 159-horsepower 2.7-liter inline-4 and a 278-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. Both options are weaker than the Ford F-150's base engine. And even while the Tacoma has less curb weight to haul, that still doesn't make up the difference.
If you have a bigger boat, bigger trailer, bigger loads, or bigger expectations, the Ford F-150 is right for you. Don't be afraid of its size. The tailgate step is there to help.