Top Pros & Cons of Owning a Truck vs a Car Review


Do we keep on trucking or is there more to a car than meets the eye? Picking the type of vehicle you want can be complicated, especially with all the different features, prices, and models to choose from. For most outdoorsy types, a truck is the king of the road. But if you’re in the city, moving a big truck around may not be the logical choice.

So, to shed a little light on the debate on which type of vehicle is better. Will it be a compact car or a bid old truck that steals the show? So, my fellow fence-sitters, let’s see once and for all the pros and cons of owning a truck versus owning a car.

Common Features that Cars and Trucks Share


Regardless of the type of vehicle, they all share common features to one degree or another says Car & Truck Review. And with this point in mind, let’s check out common features you can find in either a truck or car.

1. Price

Depending on the model, features, additional customizations, age of the vehicle, current mileage, and vehicle history will all factor into the price. On average, trucks do tend to cost more than their car counterparts, however, that is not always the case.

2. Size

Size isn’t always about the overall body of the vehicle but also what’s inside. Trucks are larger and tend to offer more space for storage and seating. Cars are more compact but easier to maneuver and park in most places.

3. Cargo Space

Inch for inch, a truck will have a lot more cargo space than any car could ever hope to have. But this is not to say a car’s cargo space should be overlooked. After all, you can always store things in the trunk and on the roof of a car more readily than a truck.

4. Gas Mileage

With the ups and downs of modern gas prices, every mile per gallon counts. In most cases, cars get better gas mileage with 30 to 39 mpg, while many trucks can only get 26 mpg. Some cars, however, do get less gas mileage than the average truck, so it is a factor to focus on before buying any car model.

5. Insurance

Outside of the original price tag, insurance costs are another big expenditure that deviates based on the type of vehicle, model, and so on. In most cases, trucks are more affordable than cars when it comes to insurance coverage costs. Cars can cost more due to their classification as a sports car or other factors.

6. Seating Capacity

Many people assume that having a truck means sacrificing seating capacity. But this is not the case for many newer truck models, you can find trucks that are six seaters, plus the truck bed which can double as seating as well. Cars, on the other hand, are limited to just the six seats, and most only have four or five seating capacity.

7. Towing and Hauling

While uncommon, you can tow some things with a car. But if you’re looking to tow a large trailer, camper, or move large cargo, then a truck beats a car any day.

8. Off-Roading Capabilities

If you’re looking for an off-road adventure, you will most likely not find it in a car. Trucks have durable suspension, ground clearance, and four-wheel/all-wheel drive that gives them the best off-road safety advantage. Cars just don’t have the necessary lift to rough road it without damaging the underside of the vehicle.

9. Variety

Both types of vehicles offer a wide selection of models to choose from. No two cars or trucks are alike, so you’re bound to find at least one vehicle that suits you and your driving habits.

10. Privacy and Security Systems

While all vehicles can have security systems installed, not all vehicles have secure cargo space. Cars are easy to lock and keep things inside, while trucks require an additional truck bed accessory to keep things from being stolen in the back.

11. Visibility

Of the vehicle types, trucks offer the most visibility range since they are higher off the ground, have the largest glass paneling, and don’t always have a backseat to obstruct the rearview. Cars often have obstructions, smaller glass paneling, and are lower to the ground.

12. Parking

Cars are easier to park than their truck counterparts due to their compact size. Trucks are larger and can be harder to park in reverse without assistance.

13. Power

An engine’s ability is measured by its horsepower. On top of horsepower, there is also torque. Trucks often have more torque at lower speeds, while sports cars will have more torque at higher speeds. This is why trucks are better at towing and hauling than cars.

Pros of Owning a Truck

  • More powerful engines on average
  • Durable and easy to maintain
  • Towing and hauling capacity
  • More storage capacity
  • Higher visibility
  • Cheaper insurance
  • Off-road capabilities
  • More legroom


Cons That Can Come with Owning a Pickup Truck

  • Higher upfront costs
  • Hard to park and can be difficult to maneuver
  • Not all models have backseats
  • Requires additional accessories for added security and privacy
  • Low gas mileage

Advantages of Owning a Car

  • Good gas mileage
  • Cheaper to buy upfront
  • Easy to park and maneuver
  • More privacy
  • Has decent seating capacity for families

Cons of Owning a Car

  • Lower visibility
  • Not a lot of cargo space
  • No towing or hauling capacity
  • No off-road capabilities
  • Minimal legroom

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right vehicle for the job doesn’t have to be hard. After all, if you got the space and money you can always have one of both options. But for those who need only one vehicle, trucks reign supreme for those out in the countryside and small towns. And for the city folk, a car is key to getting out of traffic and into a tiny garage without issue.

Either way, both types offer drivers the best results for what they need. And with this all-in mind, we hope this guide on the pros and cons of owning a truck vs. a car helps you pick the right vehicle for you.


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