OK, this weekend I'm looking to buy either an 06 V8 Tundra or an 06/07 V6 Tacoma. I'm a mobile detailer and the truck will need to be able to tow about 1200lbs, plus the weight of a 5x8 enclosed trailer. I really like the Tacomas better, but I'm sure the Tundra is going to be better for my purposes.
My question is, will the Tundra be that much better? Can I tow what I need with a Tacoma, or should I just get the Tundra.
Re: 06 Tundra vs. 06 Tacoma for hauling 5x8 trailer
the Tacoma will be more than enough for your needs. the tundra and the Tacoma with towing package have close to the same towing ratings (6500 for the v6 Tacoma and 7100 for the v8 tundra) if you like the Tacoma better, go for it. it will tow your load just fine with power to spare. I originally purchased my 07 Tacoma for use as a work truck to tow my 5x10 trailer loaded with marble and tools (up to 4000 lbs at times). It handled the load very easily, pulling all of the steep, long grades found in these canyons in Utah (up to 7% for 15 miles at 70 mph). I also got 11-12 mpg while towing (and all this with a 3 inch lift and 285/75/16 tires).
Re: 06 Tundra vs. 06 Tacoma for hauling 5x8 trailer
I've got an 05 Tacoma and I pull a 26' Travel Trailer with no problems at all. For the amount of time I pull vs daily driving for work I stuck with the Tacoma. 2500 miles towing so far but 40,000 miles total on my vehicle. NOT having the V8 and saving some on gas has been nice.
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Tacoma V6 Auto 4x4 Double Cab 128"
White
TRD Off-Road
TRD CAT Back Exhaust, Bed Mat, Husky Floor Mats, Wildcat Flash Nerf Bars, Prodigy Brake Controller, In Dash cell phone mount, Cargo Bars w/Thule Ski & Bike Attachments, Toyo Open Country A/T Tires (Stock Size)
Re: 06 Tundra vs. 06 Tacoma for hauling 5x8 trailer
With that kind of weight, you have not NEED for a tundra. If you like the Tacoma better, then I think that is what you should get. It will tow that load just fine.
Re: 06 Tundra vs. 06 Tacoma for hauling 5x8 trailer
Thanks everyone for the input. I pulled the trigger on a 2006 DCab Tacoma (Prerunner, TRD Sport). Got it at what I think was a pretty fair price with the rebate and everything. Its a great truck!
Re: 06 Tundra vs. 06 Tacoma for hauling 5x8 trailer
Just thought I'd update this thread with some pictures of my new Tacoma and my new trailer.
2006 Double Cab TRD Sport Prerunner with 2007 Hiway Cargo 5x8 enclosed trailer.
Thanks again for all the help, the Tacoma was the better choice, I think.
The trailer is going to be finished out by me. I'm installing black and white checkered flooring, covering the wooden walls, installing shelves, 100 gallon water tank, pressure washer, generator, etc. I'll also be getting vinyl graphics on the side of the trailer.