Tundra vs F-150 – 2021 Comparison

The three top-selling automobiles in the United States are full-sized pickup trucks; the F-150 tops this list.

This article draws a comparison between the Ford F-150 and the Toyota Tundra.

The review compares each vehicle’s advantages and disadvantages; using various categories to analyze which of the two is a better option.

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What You Need to Know About The Tundra

If you’re looking for more details to help you choose between the Tundra and the F-150, feel free to read through the following section for the fundamental specifications.

Tundra Specs

Here’s a list of some of the basic information for the Tundra, starting with the miles per gallon (MPG):

MPG: The 5.7L automatic delivers 13 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. The 4-wheel drive model also offers 13 MPG in the city and 17 on the highway.
Towing Capacity: This measurement is dependent on which model you select, but it ranges between 8,800lbs to 10,200 lbs.
Horsepower and Torque: This pickup pushes out 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque. It’s one of the fastest trucks on the market.
Fuel Tank Capacity: It can hold 26.4 gallons, while some trims can take up to 38.
Curb Weight: It ranges between 5,172 lb – 5,640 lb.

When it comes to a few distinctions between various models, you’ll want to review this list of body styles:

2-door double cab
4-door double cab
Crewmax

How Long is the Tundra?

The average Toyota Tundra is 228.9 inches long. The bed size varies according to consumer preference as some models come with a short-bed.

Where is the Tundra Made?

This vehicle is currently produced in the United States.

Toyota Tundra Models

The 2020 Toyota Tundra comes in various trims, giving you the option to choose a vehicle with the features you need. The most basic and affordable model is the SR, and the most expensive is the 1794 Edition.

2021 Toyota Tundra (Source)

The SR

This version is a standard double cab vehicle with a bed size of either 6.5 ft or 8.1 ft. It features halogen headlights with LED accents and 18-inch steel rims. The SR model is available in 4×2 or 4×4 versions with black, heated side mirrors.

The SR 5

This variant allows you to choose between double cab or crew cab, with a short-bed option of 5.5 ft. Tires can be either 18″ or 20″, depending on consumer preference. Furthermore, a bigger fuel tank of 38 gallons is available with this trim.

The Platinum Trim

The Platinum trim Tundra is only available in a crew cab with a 5.5 ft bed and is more luxurious. The 20″ wheels feature six spokes, and a honeycomb front grille is included. The seats are perforated leather, and the driver’s seat has lumbar support.

TRD Pro

This Tundra is the off-road option, and it’s only available in 4×4. Consumers can decide between a crew cab with a 5.5ft bed or a double cab with a 6.5ft bed. The exhaust system on this model is a special TRD dual-black chrome-tipped unit.

What You Need to Know About The F-150

You might want to see how the F-150 stacks up against the Tundra. Here are the specifications for you to analyze.

2020 F-150 (Source)

F-150 Specs

The F-150 details are as follows:

MPG: The fuel efficiency for Ford varies according to the trim. The 5-liter XL model is approximately 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway, and its 2.5-liter option offers an impressive MPG of 20 in the city and 26 MPG when measured on highway commutes.
Towing Capacity: A 5,000lb capacity is the maximum all trims of this pick-up can tow unless a tow package is added. It allows the vehicle to tow up to 13,200lbs.
Horsepower and Torque: Depending on what variant of the Ford F-150 you select, the torque can vary from 440lb-ft to 519lb-ft. The horsepower ranges from 250hp to 450hp.
Fuel Tank Capacity: The options to choose from range between 23 to 36 Gallons.
Curb Weight: It varies between 4,069lb to 5,697lb.

The F-150 also has a variety of body styles:

Double cab
Extended cab
Regular cab

What is the Length of a F-150?

The length of the vehicle ranges from 209.3″ to 227.9″.

Where is the Ford F-150 Built?

This truck is built in the United States at the Dearborn truck plant and the Kansas City assembly plant.

2021 Ford F-150 (Source)

F-150 Models

Just like its competitor, the F-150 comes in several trims. The truck also comes in different engines and transmissions. The most basic of these is the XL, while the Limited is packed with added enhancements.

XL

The Ford F-150, with the lowest starting price, is the most basic model. The XL is the workhorse of the series. It has impressive features for the cost, including a back-up camera and high beams. The vehicle can seat up to six people if the crew cab option is selected.

XLT

Upgrading to this model gives you more safety features with rear-cross traffic warnings and blind-spot monitoring. It features sport alloy wheels and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Another offering from this vehicle is the front bucket seats that include power adjustments and heating.

Lariat

A great feature of this version is its EcoBoost engine. The interior is leather, and it features dual-zone automatic climate control. The Lariat comes with an 11-speaker premium sound system and a heated, power-adjusted steering wheel.

Limited

This option is the more expensive choice. It combines luxury and performance. This model’s features include a 360-degree view camera, cruise control, dual-panel sunroof, and 22-inch aluminum wheels. In terms of performance, it has a turbocharged V6 EcoBoost engine, delivering 470lb-ft of torque.

Ford F-150 Limited (Source)

Tundra vs F-150 – Similarities and Differences

Both the Toyota Tundra and the Ford F-150 are considered consumer favorites. This part of the review will directly compare the two trucks, highlighting the similarities and differences. Some advantages and disadvantages of each will also become apparent in this section.

Tundra vs F-150 – Similarities

Some features of these full-sized trucks are similar, which explains why they’re both household names. Both these vehicles are durable and have a long life expectancy.

Life Expectancy

The Tundra is capable of running smoothly for between 150,000 to 300,000 miles. With proper maintenance, some consumers reported that it exceeded the 700,000-mile mark. The Ford F-150 also lasts long, with a life expectancy of 200,000 to 300,000 miles, making both options dependable.

Variety of Trim Levels

Both automobiles come in a variety of trims. The price ranges of these models vary from economical to expensive. The Tundra features six versions, and the F-150 has seven. Each of these vehicles has a type specifically designed for off-road pursuits.

In terms of the Ford F-150, it’s the Raptor, and the Tundra’s TRD Pro, each one delivering an off-road package. Both have excellent ground clearance and can tow heavy loads. The automobiles are sturdy and perform well in all terrain types with 17-18″ tires.

There are other common aspects regarding the vehicles, such as similar bed sizes, curb weight, and production location. The automobiles are also equipped with safety features.

Tundra vs F-150 – Differences

There are also differences in terms of reliability, value, and performance, which will be discussed in this section.

Ford F-150 Limited in Black (Source)

Reliability

Both automobiles offer a long lifespan and can accumulate high mileage, but the Tundra reigns supreme in terms of reliability.

Its reputation for longevity and its easily-sourced parts contribute to this opinion. Spares and replacement items are also more affordable than the Ford F-150.

Value

The Ford F-150 has a starting price of approximately $28,745 for an XL model and goes up to $67,735. The Toyota starts slightly more expensive at $33,575 and can cost up to $48,775 for luxury trims like the Platinum.

Performance/Technology

The Tundra features one reliable engine in all its models as a powerful V8 5.7L unit. By using only a single engine type, Tundra consumers are all granted the same amount of torque. The Tundra has a higher towing capacity of up to 13,200lb while the F-150 maximum is 8,000lb.

When it comes to payload, the Tundra can haul between 1,560lb and 1,730lbs. The F-150 can carry a range of between 1,142lb to 2,309lb. The F-150 also offers better MPG.

Top Pick Between Tundra and F-150

A comparison of these shows that, even though the two competitors are both full-sized trucks, they are attractive for different reasons. When looking for power, ruggedness, and reliability, the Toyota Tundra doesn’t disappoint.

The consumer wanting a dependable vehicle that provides comfort and modern touches will prefer the Ford F-150. It’s the most widely-purchased truck, which is another reason we consider it our top pick.

The starting price of a basic F-150 is much lower than that of Toyota, making it an economical choice. It’s also more fuel-efficient for long and shorter distances, thus saving you money over time.

Engine versatility is a feature that the Tundra lacks. By having diverse engine types, the F-150 scores points, giving you a choice between fuel economy and power when selecting a trim. Cabin space is spacious in the Ford, especially if you opt for the Super Crew package.

This option gives a decent amount of leg-room. Other luxuries that the F-150 offers include heated steering, heated rear seats, and massaging front seats, features that are unavailable in all Tundra models.

Conclusion

When looking for a full-size pick-up truck, you need to keep in mind the purpose that you want it to serve. If you need a workhorse, you’ll prefer power and torque over cabin comforts.

If the primary purpose is off-road driving, you’ll need a vehicle with TRD or similar functionalities. Both the Tundra and the F-150 are dependable, and won’t disappoint.

Luxurious F-150 interior (Source)