When it comes to choosing a Toyota Tacoma, one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is whether to go with a long bed or a short bed. Both options have their own pros and cons, and it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between a Tacoma long bed and short bed to help you make an informed decision.
First and foremost, the biggest difference between the two is the length. A Toyota Tacoma long bed measures 6.1 feet, while a short bed is only 5.1 feet long. While one foot may not seem like a significant difference, it can make a big impact depending on how you plan to use your truck. For example, if you frequently haul long items such as lumber or kayaks, a long bed may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you plan to use your Tacoma primarily for commuting or off-roading, a short bed may be more practical.
Tacoma Long Bed Vs Short Bed: An Overview
The Toyota Tacoma is a popular midsize pickup truck available in various body styles, cab configurations, and bed lengths. One of the primary decisions that buyers have to make when purchasing a Tacoma is whether to go for the long bed or the short bed.
The Long Bed is typically about six feet in length, while the Short Bed is around five feet in length. The difference in length may not seem significant, but it can make a big difference in terms of practicality and functionality, depending on the intended use of the truck.
One of the main advantages of the Long Bed is its larger cargo capacity. With a longer bed, the Long Bed can haul more cargo, making it ideal for those who need to transport larger items such as furniture, appliances, or construction materials. The Long Bed also has a higher payload capacity, which means it can carry heavier loads.
On the other hand, the Short Bed is more suitable for those who prefer a more modest length and size of bed. It is easier to maneuver in tight spaces and parking lots, making it a better option for city driving. The Short Bed also has a shorter wheelbase, making it more agile and better suited for off-roading.
In terms of price, the Long Bed is usually more expensive than the Short Bed due to its larger size and higher payload capacity. However, the price difference may not be significant enough to sway buyers one way or the other.
Ultimately, the decision between the Long Bed and Short Bed comes down to personal preference and intended use. Buyers should consider their specific needs and preferences before making a decision.
Key Differences
When it comes to choosing between a Toyota Tacoma Long Bed and a Short Bed, there are a few key differences to consider. In this section, we will explore the differences between the two bed sizes in terms of their dimensions and size, cargo space, towing capacity, and fuel efficiency.
Dimension and Size
The most obvious difference between the Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed is their length. The Long Bed is typically around six feet in length, while the Short Bed is around five feet in length. However, the width and height of both beds remain the same. This means that the Long Bed provides more space for cargo, but may be more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
Cargo Space
The Long Bed offers more cargo space than the Short Bed, which can be a deciding factor for those who need to transport larger items. However, the Short Bed is still capable of carrying a significant amount of cargo, and may be more practical for everyday use. It’s worth noting that the Long Bed may also require a longer garage or parking space, which is something to consider if you plan to park your Tacoma in a small garage or driveway.
Towing Capacity
In terms of towing capacity, the Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed are very similar. Both are capable of towing up to 6,800 pounds when properly equipped. However, it’s important to note that towing capacity can vary depending on the engine, transmission, and other factors.
Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed are also very similar. Both offer similar gas mileage, which can vary depending on the engine and other factors. However, it’s worth noting that the Long Bed may be slightly heavier and less aerodynamic than the Short Bed, which could impact fuel efficiency to some degree.
Overall, the decision between a Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Those who require more cargo space may prefer the Long Bed, while those who prioritize maneuverability and ease of use may prefer the Short Bed. Regardless of which bed size you choose, the Toyota Tacoma is a reliable and capable pickup truck that is well-suited for a variety of tasks.
Pros and Cons
Advantages of Tacoma Long Bed
The Toyota Tacoma Long Bed offers a larger cargo area, which makes it more suitable for hauling larger items. It is particularly useful for those who frequently transport heavy equipment, tools, or other bulky items. The longer bed also provides more stability when carrying heavy loads, making it more suitable for off-road driving.
Advantages of Tacoma Short Bed
The Toyota Tacoma Short Bed is more maneuverable than the Long Bed, making it easier to park and navigate in tight spaces. It is also lighter, which makes it more fuel-efficient and easier to handle on the road. The shorter bed is also more suitable for those who do not need to transport large items frequently.
Disadvantages of Tacoma Long Bed
The Toyota Tacoma Long Bed is more difficult to park and maneuver in tight spaces due to its size. It is also heavier, which makes it less fuel-efficient and more difficult to handle on the road. Additionally, the longer bed may require additional tie-downs to secure cargo, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient.
Disadvantages of Tacoma Short Bed
The Toyota Tacoma Short Bed offers a smaller cargo area, which makes it less suitable for hauling larger items. It is also less stable when carrying heavy loads, which can make it more difficult to drive off-road. Additionally, the shorter bed may require additional tie-downs to secure cargo, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient.
Overall, the choice between the Toyota Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed depends on individual needs and preferences. Those who frequently transport heavy equipment or bulky items may find the Long Bed more suitable, while those who prioritize maneuverability and fuel efficiency may prefer the Short Bed.
Impact on Driving Experience
When it comes to choosing between a long bed and a short bed Tacoma, one of the most important factors to consider is the impact on driving experience. This section will discuss the differences in maneuverability, ride comfort, and off-road performance between the two options.
Maneuverability
The shorter length of the Tacoma short bed makes it more maneuverable than the long bed. This can be especially important in tight spaces, such as parking lots or narrow streets. However, the longer wheelbase of the long bed can provide better stability at higher speeds and on rough terrain.
Ride Comfort
The ride comfort of the Tacoma can be impacted by the length of the bed. The longer wheelbase of the long bed can provide a smoother ride on rough terrain, but it can also make the truck feel less agile. The shorter wheelbase of the short bed can make the truck feel more responsive, but it can also result in a choppier ride on rough roads.
Off-Road Performance
Off-road performance can also be impacted by the length of the bed. The longer wheelbase of the long bed can provide better stability on uneven terrain, but it can also make the truck harder to maneuver in tight spaces. The shorter wheelbase of the short bed can make the truck more agile off-road, but it can also make it feel less stable on rough terrain.
Overall, the choice between a long bed and a short bed Tacoma will come down to personal preference and specific needs. Those who prioritize maneuverability and responsiveness may prefer the short bed, while those who prioritize stability and comfort may prefer the long bed.
Buying Considerations
When considering a Toyota Tacoma, one of the main decisions to make is whether to opt for a long bed or a short bed. There are several factors to consider when making this decision, including price, purpose, and lifestyle needs.
Price
One of the most significant factors to consider when deciding between a long bed and a short bed Tacoma is the price. Long bed models tend to be more expensive than their short bed counterparts. This is because they typically come with more features, such as larger fuel tanks and heavier-duty suspension systems, which can increase the overall cost of the vehicle.
Purpose
Another important consideration when choosing between a long bed and a short bed Tacoma is the purpose for which the vehicle will be used. If the vehicle will primarily be used for work purposes, such as hauling heavy loads or transporting large equipment, a long bed may be the better option. Long beds offer more cargo space, which can be helpful when transporting larger items.
On the other hand, if the vehicle will be used primarily for personal use, such as commuting or weekend trips, a short bed may be more practical. Short beds are easier to maneuver and park, making them a better choice for city driving.
Lifestyle Needs
Finally, lifestyle needs should also be taken into consideration when deciding between a long bed and a short bed Tacoma. If the driver has a large family or frequently travels with friends, a long bed may be a better choice, as it offers more seating space. However, if the driver frequently travels alone or with just one other person, a short bed may be more appropriate.
Ultimately, the decision between a long bed and a short bed Tacoma will depend on a variety of factors, including price, purpose, and lifestyle needs. By carefully considering these factors and weighing the pros and cons of each option, drivers can choose the Tacoma that best fits their needs and budget.
Conclusion
Choosing between a long bed and a short bed for your Toyota Tacoma ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. Here are some key takeaways to consider:
- Long beds offer more cargo space and are ideal for hauling larger items such as furniture, lumber, or equipment.
- Short beds are more maneuverable and easier to park in tight spaces, making them a better choice for daily driving and off-roading.
- Double Cab models typically come with a short bed, while Access Cab models offer both short and long bed options.
- The short bed measures 5.1 feet in length, while the long bed measures 6.1 feet in length.
- The width and height of the beds remain the same for both options.
Ultimately, the decision between a long bed and a short bed will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the types of activities you’ll be using your Tacoma for, and how much cargo space you’ll require. With the information provided in this article, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and choose the bed that’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the length of a Toyota Tacoma long bed?
The length of a Toyota Tacoma long bed is 6.1 feet.
How does the length of a Toyota Tacoma short bed compare to the long bed?
The length of a Toyota Tacoma short bed is 5.1 feet, which is one foot shorter than the long bed.
Is there a difference in ride quality between a Toyota Tacoma long bed and short bed?
There is no significant difference in ride quality between a Toyota Tacoma long bed and short bed. However, the longer wheelbase of the long bed may make it slightly less maneuverable in tight spaces.
Does the Toyota Tacoma come in different bed lengths?
Yes, the Toyota Tacoma is available in both short bed (5.1 feet) and long bed (6.1 feet) configurations.
What is the length of a Toyota Tacoma with a crew cab and long bed?
The length of a Toyota Tacoma with a crew cab and long bed is approximately 225 inches.
What is the difference between a 3rd Gen Toyota Tacoma double cab long bed and a short bed?
The main difference between a 3rd Gen Toyota Tacoma double cab long bed and a short bed is the length of the bed. The long bed is 6.1 feet, while the short bed is 5.1 feet. The long bed also has a longer wheelbase, which may affect maneuverability in tight spaces.