The Toyota Tacoma is a popular midsize pickup truck that is known for its durability, off-road capabilities, and versatility. One of the decisions that buyers have to make when purchasing a Tacoma is whether to go for the short bed or the long bed. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and usage.
The short bed Tacoma has a length of 5 feet, while the long bed Tacoma has a length of 6.1 feet. The shorter bed makes the truck more maneuverable and easier to park, while the longer bed provides more cargo space and is better suited for hauling larger items. The payload and towing capacity also differ between the two options, with the long bed having a higher capacity.
Understanding Tacoma Short Bed
Dimensions of Tacoma Short Bed
The Toyota Tacoma Short Bed has a length of 5.1 feet, which is approximately 61.4 inches. It has a width of 41.5 inches at the tailgate and 56.7 inches at the front of the bed. The depth of the bed is 19.1 inches, and the total volume of the bed is approximately 38.4 cubic feet.
Benefits of Tacoma Short Bed
The Tacoma Short Bed is a great option for those who don’t need to haul large items and prefer a smaller truck. It is easier to maneuver in tight spaces and park in smaller areas. It also has a smaller turning radius, making it easier to navigate through narrow streets.
The smaller size of the Tacoma Short Bed also means that it is more fuel-efficient than the Long Bed. It is also lighter, which can improve the overall performance of the truck.
Drawbacks of Tacoma Short Bed
One of the main drawbacks of the Tacoma Short Bed is its limited cargo space. It may not be suitable for those who need to haul large items such as furniture or construction materials. Additionally, the shorter bed length means that it may not be able to accommodate longer items such as lumber or pipes.
Another drawback of the Tacoma Short Bed is its lower payload capacity. It can carry up to 1,685 pounds, which is lower than the Long Bed’s payload capacity of up to 1,620 pounds. This means that it may not be suitable for those who need to haul heavy loads.
In summary, the Tacoma Short Bed is a great option for those who don’t need to haul large items and prefer a smaller truck. It is easier to maneuver and more fuel-efficient than the Long Bed. However, its limited cargo space and lower payload capacity may not be suitable for everyone.
Understanding Tacoma Long Bed
When it comes to choosing between a Tacoma long bed and a short bed, it’s important to understand the key differences between the two. This section will focus on the Tacoma long bed and provide information on its dimensions, benefits, and drawbacks.
Dimensions of Tacoma Long Bed
The Tacoma long bed measures approximately 6.1 feet in length, providing a total available length of 73.7 inches. The bed is also 41.5 inches wide and has a depth of 19.1 inches. These dimensions make the Tacoma long bed ideal for carrying larger items such as furniture, appliances, and building materials.
Benefits of Tacoma Long Bed
One of the key benefits of the Tacoma long bed is its increased cargo capacity. With its longer length, the Tacoma long bed can carry larger items that may not fit in a shorter bed. This makes it an ideal choice for those who frequently transport large items for work or recreation.
Another benefit of the Tacoma long bed is its versatility. The longer bed allows for more customization options, such as adding a camper shell or a bed extender. This can help increase the overall functionality of the vehicle and make it more useful for a wider range of activities.
Drawbacks of Tacoma Long Bed
While the Tacoma long bed has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the main drawbacks is its size. The longer bed can make the vehicle more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, such as parking lots or narrow streets. It may also be more difficult to park in a garage or other enclosed space.
Another potential drawback of the Tacoma long bed is its weight. The longer bed can add extra weight to the vehicle, which can impact its overall performance and fuel efficiency. It’s important to consider these factors when deciding whether a Tacoma long bed is the right choice for your needs.
Overall, the Tacoma long bed is a great choice for those who need increased cargo capacity and versatility. However, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks and weigh them against the benefits to determine whether it’s the right choice for your specific needs.
Comparing Tacoma Short Bed and Long Bed
When it comes to buying a Toyota Tacoma, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is whether to get a short bed or a long bed. Both options have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your own needs and preferences before making a decision.
Size Comparison
The most obvious difference between the Tacoma short bed and long bed is the size. The short bed is around five feet in length, while the long bed is typically about six feet in length. The width and height remain the same for both options.
The long bed has a slightly better appearance with a comparative length of truck body and bed, while the short bed appears too short. However, the short bed is easier to maneuver in tight spaces and can be more practical for everyday use.
Usage Comparison
The choice between a Tacoma short bed and long bed largely depends on what you plan to use the truck for. If you’re planning to use it for work purposes, such as hauling equipment or materials, a long bed may be more practical due to its increased cargo capacity.
On the other hand, if you’re planning to use it for personal use, such as camping or off-roading, a short bed may be more suitable. It’s easier to maneuver and can be more practical for carrying smaller items.
Price Comparison
The price difference between a Tacoma short bed and long bed is relatively small, but it’s still worth considering. In general, the long bed tends to be slightly more expensive due to its increased size and cargo capacity.
However, the price difference may not be significant enough to sway your decision one way or the other. Ultimately, it’s important to consider your own needs and preferences when deciding between a Tacoma short bed and long bed.
| Feature | Tacoma Short Bed | Tacoma Long Bed |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Around 5 feet | Around 6 feet |
| Cargo Capacity | Smaller | Larger |
| Maneuverability | Easier to maneuver | More difficult to maneuver |
| Price | Slightly less expensive | Slightly more expensive |
In conclusion, both the Tacoma short bed and long bed have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. The choice ultimately depends on your own needs and preferences.
Choosing Between Tacoma Short Bed and Long Bed
When choosing between a Toyota Tacoma short bed and long bed, there are several factors to consider. Below are some of the most important considerations to keep in mind.
Considerations for Off-Roading
If off-roading is a priority, a short bed may be the better option. Short beds are more maneuverable and easier to navigate through tight trails. They also have a shorter wheelbase, which can make them more stable on uneven terrain.
Considerations for Towing and Hauling
For those who plan to tow or haul heavy loads, a long bed may be the better choice. Long beds provide more cargo space, which can be useful for carrying larger items. They also have a longer wheelbase, which can make them more stable when towing heavy loads.
Considerations for Daily Use
For daily driving, the choice between a short bed and long bed is largely a matter of personal preference. Short beds are easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces, while long beds provide more cargo space for hauling groceries, luggage, and other items.
Ultimately, the choice between a Toyota Tacoma short bed and long bed will depend on the individual’s needs and priorities. By considering the factors outlined above, drivers can make an informed decision that best suits their lifestyle and driving habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the length of the bed on a Toyota Tacoma with a crew cab and long bed?
The length of the bed on a Toyota Tacoma with a crew cab and long bed is approximately 6.1 feet or 73 inches. This makes it longer than the short bed option, which is approximately 5.1 feet or 61 inches.
How does the ride quality of a long bed Tacoma compare to a short bed?
The ride quality of a long bed Tacoma may be slightly different than that of a short bed. The longer wheelbase of a long bed can make the ride smoother and more stable, but it can also make the truck harder to maneuver in tight spaces.
What is the difference between a 5ft and 6ft bed on a Tacoma?
The main difference between a 5ft and 6ft bed on a Tacoma is the length of the cargo area. The 6ft bed is longer, providing more cargo space, while the 5ft bed is shorter, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Is the 3rd Gen Tacoma available in a double cab long bed configuration?
Yes, the 3rd Gen Tacoma is available in a double cab long bed configuration. This option provides a longer bed for increased cargo space, while still accommodating passengers in the back seat.
What are the benefits of a double cab long bed Tacoma?
The benefits of a double cab long bed Tacoma include increased cargo space, while still being able to comfortably seat passengers in the back. This option is great for those who need to haul larger items, but still want the convenience of a crew cab.
Are all Tacomas equipped with the same bed length?
No, all Tacomas are not equipped with the same bed length. The bed length can vary depending on the cab and configuration chosen. It is important to choose the right bed length for your specific needs.