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2021 Toyota Tundra Trail Edition parked near mountains

The Ford F-150 Base Model Stinks Compared To The Toyota Tundra’s

There is so much to consider when comparing full-size trucks to choose the best option for your needs. The Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150 are two rivals that both deserve a chance, so let’s get started by comparing the base models.  Toyota Tundra VS Ford F-150  The Toyota Tundra is often passed off as an …

There is so much to consider when comparing full-size trucks to choose the best option for your needs. The Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150 are two rivals that both deserve a chance, so let’s get started by comparing the base models. 

Toyota Tundra VS Ford F-150 

The Toyota Tundra is often passed off as an option that’s too expensive compared to the competition. It starts out around $33k, making it a little pricier than the Ford F-150, which starts around $28k. 

Toyota Tundra
Toyota Tundra | SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images

However, the value included with the Toyota Tundra makes the extra $5k more than worth it with all of the extra power and capabilities included. For the Ford F-150 to match its performance, you’ll have to spend thousands in upgrades.

Toyota Tundra And Ford F-150 Base Model Power 

The Ford F-150 base model, which is a regular cab option, comes with the 3.3-liter ti-VCT engine. It offers 290 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. While this engine can tow up to 7,700 lb, the bare-bones base model only tows up to 5,000 lb. 

The Ford F-150 being unveiled at the North American International Auto Show
The Ford F-150 | GEOFF ROBINS/AFP via Getty Images)

The Toyota Tundra base model has a double bed and provides for space for passengers. The base engine is a 5.7-liter aluminum i-FORCE V8 engine with an output of 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. This base model can tow up to 9,800 lb. 

To get a comparable V8 engine in the Ford F-150, you’ll have to up the price to about $43k. Also, to equip the base model Ford F-150 with four-wheel-drive, the price jumps up to $32k. But to be fair, you have to add FWD to the Toyota Tundra base model, driving the price up to $37k. 

The Ford F-150 has a double-wishbone independent suspension in the front with a leaf spring/solid-axle suspension in the rear. It also has gas-pressurized shock absorbers and power 4-wheel anti-lock vented disc brakes. 

The Toyota Tundra has an independent coil spring double mounted front suspension and stabilizer bar. In the rear, you will find a live axle trapezoidal multi-leaf rear suspension. Plus, the shock absorbers are low pressure and nitrogen gas-filled. So, as you can see, the base model Tundra offers a smoother ride. 

Also, the Toyota Tundra has power ventilated disc brakes in the front and opposed to four-piston brake calipers with ventilated rear disc brakes. 

Toyota Tundra And Ford F-150 Base Model Features 

With the Toyota Tundra base model, you get a few more convenience features such as heated mirrors and an easy lift tailgate. You also get deck rails and tailgate caps. 

A 2020 Ford F-150 on display at an auto show
A 2020 Ford F-150 on display | Sjoerd van der Wal/Getty Images

The Ford F-150 comes with a standard FM/AM radio and cloth seats, but you can upgrade it to have a built-in Wi-fi hotspot. However, the Toyota Tundra comes with a 7.3″ infotainment center that can connect to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Sirus XM. 

Also, the Ford F-150 base model has hardly any safety features at all. Meanwhile, the Toyota Tundra has emergency braking, forward collision prevention, an integrated trailer brake controller, and much more. 

Toyota Tundra TRD Pro
Toyota Tundra TRD Pro | Toyota

There is no reason the pick the Ford F-150 base model unless you need savings. However, investing in the Tundra still may be more affordable as it doesn’t depreciate nearly as much. 

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