If you’re trying to decide between a truck and a sports car, we don’t envy you.
In this article, we’re going to compare the pros and cons of owning each vehicle, to help you decide whether a truck or a sports car is the better investment for you.
So, Which Is Better, A Truck Or a Sports Car?
Our Verdict: Trucks
Although they are typically more expensive than the average sports car, trucks provide better versatility, are safer, and are infinitely more useful.
That said, sports cars are often cheaper than trucks, and you can get much better deals on used sports cars than used trucks. So depending on your circumstances, you may want to save money and invest in a sports car.
Keep reading for a side-by-side comparison of the pros and cons of each.
Sports Cars Cost Less Than Trucks
Trucks are typically more expensive than traditional sports cars.
However, high-end sports cars like a Jaguar or Alfa Romeo, for example, sell for significantly more.
Let’s take a look at how much some of the most popular trucks of 2021 cost:
| Truck Year | Truck Make | Truck Model | MSRP |
| 2021 | Ford | F-150 | $28,940 |
| 2021 | Ram | 1500 | $32,795 |
| 2021 | Honda | Ridgeline | $36,490 |
| 2021 | Ram | 2500 | $34,695 |
Now let’s compare that to the cost of some of the most popular sports cars…
| Sports Car Year | Sports Car Make | Sports Car Model | Sports Car MSRP |
| 2021 | Chevy | Camaro | $25,000 |
| 2021 | Dodge | Challenger | $28,545 |
| 2020 | Toyota | 86 | $27,060 |
| 2021 | Ford | Mustang | $27,155 |
Winner: Sports Cars
Chevy’s Camaro and Toyota’s 86 are the more affordable options from the comparison, with all cars edging out trucks in pricing by a considerable margin.
If you’re on a strict budget and don’t need the utility and safety benefits of a truck, a sports car will allow you to save money on your outright or monthly payments.
Sports Cars Handle Better Than Trucks
Due to the larger size of trucks, they can sometimes be difficult to maneuver.
If you are looking for a vehicle with the best possible handling, you’re better off investing in a sports car.
This doesn’t necessarily mean safer, however.
You’ll want to keep reading to find out more about the safety features between sports cars and trucks.
Winner: Sports Cars
There’s really no competition here.
Trucks are obviously larger than sports cars and thus are more challenging to drive in tight situations.
If you’re not used to driving a truck, the handling can take time to get used to.
The longer your truck is, the harder it is to handle.
That said, you should find trucks provide better control in snowy conditions.
Still, on average, sports cars are going to deliver better handling in normal driving conditions.
Not only that but there are a wealth of tire options to consider.
Many sports cars come equipped with high-end tires that deliver a better driving experience.
These are all things you want to consider when shopping for various vehicle models.
But if you want the best package on your vehicle, expect to spend more on upfront costs.
Trucks Are More Practical Than Sports Cars
Once again, size comes into play. But this time, it’s largely in the truck’s favor.
Thanks to the power and pulling features of trucks, you have far more utility versatility with trucks. Some cars are capable of pulling light loads, but it’s few and far between, especially when it comes to sports cars.
If you’re looking for a vehicle to haul trailers and light to moderate loads, a truck is going to serve you well.
Winner: Trucks
Trucks simply provide more utility features from the outset, even with the least expensive package.
Most hauling needs will be met with a truck, whereas a sports car is extremely limited.
Also, if you have (or are planning to have) a family, a sports car will become frustrating very quickly.
You might also like: Is A Truck A Good First Car?
Sports Cars Are More Fuel Efficient Than Trucks
Although trucks have greatly improved in this area, they still generally have pretty average fuel efficiency. Only a few trucks manage to get over 30mpg on the highway.
But even after improvements in fuel efficiency, you’re still going to get better mileage in a sports car due to the size and weight difference.
If you’re concerned about fuel efficiency and want a vehicle that will save you money on annual fuel costs, a sports car is your better option.
Sports cars win this category due to the size difference compared to trucks.
While many sports cars are equipped with powerful engines, it does little to affect the efficiency of their streamlined and compact design.
Winner: Sports cars
Trucks Are More Comfortable Than Sports Cars
Sports cars can sometimes be cramped inside, although many are equipped with comfortable bucket seats.
However, trucks have improved significantly in this area, as well.
Not only that, but they typically provide a much cushier ride, whereas many sports cars sit low to the ground.
Trucks are typically much more comfortable compared to the smaller, compact size of sports cars. In fact, many of today’s trucks come with high-end interiors found in luxury cars.
Winner: Trucks
Trucks Are Safer Than Sports Cars
Safety is always going to be one of the most important aspects of any vehicle. Trucks are larger and offer better reinforcement compared to sports cars.
What’s more, if you have children, you’re going to want a vehicle that offers the best safety measures.
Winner: Trucks
Trucks get the nod in this category.
Although sports cars come equipped with standard airbags and safety features, they can’t compete with most trucks.
Sports Cars Are More Reliable Than Trucks
Trucks are some of the most durable vehicles on the road. Not only that, but most people choose trucks due to their sheer size and the incredible power that they offer.
While most trucks’ fuel efficiency might not be the best in the world, you can count on these vehicles to deliver in the reliability department.
That said, sports cars are known for their excellent drivability, both on the highway and in the city. As long as you take care of the engine and don’t drive it into the ground, there’s a good chance that your sports car will last many years.
While both vehicles appear to deliver a reliable driving experience, Consumer Reports data shows sports cars to take the lead in this category.
The highest-rated trucks in reliability are the 2021 Honda Ridgeline with an 80, and the 2021 Ram 1500 with a 63.
Conversely, sports cars like the 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata have a reliability rating of 87, while the 2021 Porsche 718 Boxster scores an 83.
Winner: Sports Cars
When it comes to reliability, sports cars score significantly higher than trucks in Consumer Reports’ ratings.
It’s an investment that you can trust to provide better overall performance.
Sports Cars Are Usually Cheaper To Insure Than Trucks
In almost all cases, it’s going to be significantly cheaper to insure a sports car compared to that of a truck.
However, high-end sports cars could end up costing you a lot more. If you’re investing in an average sports car, you may end up saving a sizeable sum over insuring a truck.
Winner: Sports Cars
Truck vs Sports Car – Which Is Better?
So, which is the better option for you to invest in? A truck or a sports car?
Ultimately, it really depends on your lifestyle and future plans.
If you’re looking for safety and utility features, a truck is the better option.
However, if a smooth ride is important to you, and you’re looking to save some money on upfront costs as well as insurance, then a sports car might be better for you.
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