How to Make your Tundra Better than a Raptor

The Toyota Tundra is definitely a great truck. Toyota has a proven track record of creating high quality vehicles that can withstand incredible abuse and last hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal effort. This makes Toyota a great choice for building a prerunner. Ford Raptor’s on the other hand come straight from the dealer ready to rip out into the desert. If you want to get your Tundra on part (or better) than the Ratpor, its time to get to work. Below is a comparison of a Tundra vs a Raptor so you can decide what you’ll need. For those that don’t want to read everything here is the TLDR; or quick summary.

Summary of Key Upgrades to make a Tundra Better than a Raptor:

• Suspension: Fox, King, or Bilstein shocks, long-travel control arms, lift kit
• Tires and Wheels: 37-inch all-terrain tires, off-road wheels, beadlocks
• Powertrain: Supercharger, performance exhaust, tuning
• Drivetrain: Locking rear differential, upgraded axles
• Body: Skid plates, off-road bumpers, fender flares
• Brakes: Big Brake Kit
• Accessories: Off-road lights, tire pressure monitoring, snorkel

By making these upgrades, the Tundra could match or even exceed the Ford Raptor’s off-road capabilities while retaining Toyota’s reputation for reliability and durability.

Comparison of Tundra vs Raptor

1. Performance & Engine Options

• Toyota Tundra:
  • The Tundra offers a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine with a hybrid option in some trims. The standard gas engine produces around 389 horsepower, and the hybrid version can produce up to 437 horsepower.
  • The Tundra is built for durability and towing, with a towing capacity of up to 12,000 lbs depending on the configuration.
• Ford Raptor:
  • The Ford Raptor is focused on off-road performance, powered by a high-output 3.5L twin-turbo V6 that generates 450 horsepower. The Raptor R model takes it further with a supercharged 5.2L V8 producing 700 horsepower.
  • It is optimized for desert running and extreme off-roading, with specialized suspension and off-road tires.

2. Off-Road Capability

• Toyota Tundra:
  • The Tundra has decent off-road capability, especially in its TRD Pro trim, which comes with an upgraded suspension, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. However, it’s more of an all-purpose truck rather than a specialized off-road beast.
• Ford Raptor:
  • The Raptor is specifically designed for off-road domination. It comes with Fox Live Valve shocks, a long-travel suspension, 37-inch all-terrain tires (optional), and advanced off-road tech like Trail Control and Terrain Management. It’s more suited for high-speed desert runs and extreme terrain.

3. Design & Aesthetics

• Toyota Tundra:
  • The Tundra has a bold, aggressive look, but it maintains a more traditional truck aesthetic. Its design focuses on utility, with a strong front grille and rugged body lines, but it’s less extreme than the Raptor.
• Ford Raptor:
  • The Raptor has an aggressive, wide stance, flared fenders, and a performance-focused look that screams off-road readiness. It’s built to look as extreme as its capabilities, with a distinct front grille and muscular design.

4. Towing & Payload

• Toyota Tundra:
  • With a towing capacity of up to 12,000 lbs and a payload capacity around 1,940 lbs, the Tundra is a strong choice for those who need a workhorse for towing and hauling.
• Ford Raptor:
  • The Raptor sacrifices some towing and payload capacity for off-road prowess. It has a towing capacity of around 8,200 lbs and a payload capacity of approximately 1,400 lbs. It’s more suited for off-road performance than heavy towing.

5. Interior & Technology

• Toyota Tundra:
  • The Tundra features a well-appointed interior with options for a large 14-inch touchscreen, premium materials, and advanced driver-assistance systems. It’s more luxury-focused in its higher trims, with a comfortable, spacious cabin for long drives.
• Ford Raptor:
  • The Raptor’s interior focuses on rugged luxury. It features a 12-inch touchscreen, Recaro seats (optional), and durable materials designed to handle rough conditions. It also has off-road-specific tech like real-time damping adjustments.

6. Price

• Toyota Tundra:
  • The Tundra starts at a lower price point than the Raptor, making it more accessible to buyers looking for a reliable, strong-performing truck. Base models start in the mid-$40,000 range, with higher trims approaching $70,000 for the hybrid and TRD Pro models.
• Ford Raptor:
  • The Ford Raptor is more expensive due to its specialized off-road capability. Prices start around $76,000 for the base model and can reach well over $100,000 for the Raptor R with the V8 engine.

7. Target Audience

• Toyota Tundra: Suited for those who need a reliable, powerful truck for towing, daily driving, and occasional off-road adventures. It’s a more balanced truck for everyday use and work.
• Ford Raptor: Appeals to off-road enthusiasts looking for high-performance, extreme desert-running capability, and a powerful, aggressive-looking truck that stands out on and off the road.

Specific Differences of Parts and Features Tundra vs Raptor

1. Suspension

• Shock Absorbers: The Ford Raptor is equipped with Fox Live Valve shocks, which allow for adaptive damping based on terrain. To match this, you would need to install high-performance Fox 3.0 Internal Bypass Shocks, King Off-Road Racing Shocks, or Bilstein 8100 Series shocks. These would improve your Tundra’s ability to handle rough terrain at high speeds.
• Suspension Travel: The Raptor has greater suspension travel for better handling over jumps and uneven terrain. Consider upgrading the Tundra’s control arms, upper arms, and lowering spindles to increase suspension travel. Kits from Total Chaos or Icon Vehicle Dynamics would help you achieve this.
• Lift Kit: You’ll likely need a 3-4 inch lift kit to increase ground clearance and allow for bigger tires. Fabtech or ReadyLIFT provide lift kits designed for off-road use.

2. Tires and Wheels

• All-Terrain Tires: The Raptor comes with 35- or 37-inch all-terrain tires. Upgrading to BFGoodrich KO2 or Nitto Ridge Grappler tires in a 37-inch size would improve off-road grip and performance. Ensure your wheels can handle the larger tires by upgrading to 17- or 18-inch beadlock wheels for added tire security when airing down.
• Wheels: Invest in off-road-capable wheels like Method Race Wheels or Fuel Off-Road Wheels that are designed to withstand the stress of off-road driving.

3. Powertrain and Performance

• Supercharger: The Raptor’s engine delivers a lot more power out of the box. To match this, you can install a supercharger kit on the Tundra’s 3.5L twin-turbo V6, such as one from TRD or Magnuson Superchargers. This will boost horsepower and torque, closing the gap with the Raptor.
• Exhaust System: Upgrade to a performance exhaust system from companies like Borla or MagnaFlow to increase power and improve engine sound, especially when paired with a supercharger.
• Tuning: You may need a performance tune or an engine management system upgrade (like from Unichip or SCT Performance) to ensure the Tundra’s ECU can handle the performance upgrades.

4. Drivetrain

• Locking Rear Differential: The Raptor comes with a locking rear differential for better traction in extreme off-road conditions. Adding an ARB Air Locker or Eaton Detroit Locker to your Tundra would improve its off-road performance by ensuring power is sent to both rear wheels evenly in low-traction situations.
• Upgraded Axles: To handle rough off-road terrain, upgrading to heavy-duty RCV Performance axles or Dynatrac axles would increase durability, especially if you’re running larger tires and a supercharger.

5. Body and Exterior

• Fender Flares: The Raptor has wider fenders to accommodate its larger tires and increased suspension travel. Adding Bushwacker Fender Flares or a similar wide-body kit would ensure the Tundra has enough clearance for larger tires and provide a more aggressive look.
• Skid Plates: The Raptor has underbody protection for off-road driving. Equip the Tundra with steel or aluminum skid plates from RCI Offroad or ARB to protect vital components like the engine, transmission, and fuel tank.
• Bumpers: Install off-road bumpers for better approach and departure angles. Brands like Addictive Desert Designs or Fab Fours provide bumpers with integrated winch mounts and light bar provisions.
• Off-Road Lights: Add LED off-road lighting to improve visibility at night. Brands like Baja Designs or Rigid Industries offer powerful light bars and auxiliary lights.

6. Brakes

• High-Performance Brakes: The Raptor is equipped with strong brakes to handle off-road terrain. Upgrading the Tundra’s brakes with a Big Brake Kit from Brembo or Wilwood would provide better stopping power for high-speed off-road driving.

7. Off-Road Accessories

• Off-Road Tires Pressure Monitoring System: For extreme off-roading, a tire pressure monitoring system can help you air down tires for better traction. Look into TireMinder TPMS or similar systems.
• Snorkel: If you plan to take the Tundra through deep water, adding a snorkel for the air intake would ensure better performance and prevent water from entering the engine.

8. Interior Enhancements

• Off-Road Gauges and Controls: The Raptor has off-road-specific controls for different driving modes and terrain management. You can add a custom switch panel for controlling off-road lights, lockers, and compressors. sPOD or Switch Pros make user-friendly, high-quality switch panels for off-road trucks.

2022 Blue Tundra Build

– @ivdsuspension: IVD Suspension specializes in off-road suspension systems like the Stage 7 kit. You can find their products at ivdsuspension.com.

@methodracewheels: The 701 17″ wheels you mentioned are from Method Race Wheels. You can explore their selection at methodracewheels.com​Method Race Wheels​Method Race Wheels.

@toyotires: Open Country AT3 tires by Toyo Tires can be found on their official site at toyotires.com.

@rcioffroad: RCI Offroad offers skid plates and other off-road protection accessories. Their products can be found at rcimetalworks.com.

@Lilbsfabrication: They create custom bumpers for trucks. Their work can be found at lilbsfab.com.

@custommotorsports: This fabrication shop offers custom bumpers and rock sliders. Check them out at custommotorsportsfab.com.

@bamufflers: They specialize in exhaust systems, including straight pipe systems with Helmholtz resonators. Visit their site at bamufflers.com.

@traverseadventuregear: For the Hideout tent and Total Eclipse awning, visit traverseadventuregear.com.

@experimentalbiz: They provide the Freedom Locker, but they may not have a direct website—this is likely a custom product showcased on their Instagram page.

@cvttents: Cascadia Vehicle Tents offers rooftop tents and awnings, which you can find at cvttents.com.

@shw_offroad: SHW Offroad makes bed drawer systems for trucks. Their products are available at shwoffroad.com.

@switch.pros.official: The SP9100 switch controller is available from switchpros.com.

@bajadesigns: They provide off-road lighting solutions like the S8, XL80, and others, which you can find at bajadesigns.com.

@warn: Warn Industries specializes in winches, including the Evo 12s, available at warn.com.

@prinsu: Prinsu roof racks are popular for overlanding, and you can find their products at prinsuracks.com.

@uptopoverland: For the AFS Truss bed rack, visit uptopoverland.com.

These links should help you explore and acquire the parts you’re interested in!

Light Blue Tundra Prerunner Build Parts

@dirtking: Dirt King specializes in off-road suspension systems, including the Boxed Mid Travel kit. You can explore their products at dirtking.com​

@foxracing: Fox Racing provides high-performance suspension components, including the DSC 2.5 series shocks. Visit them at ridefox.com.

@_ss_built: They fabricate custom off-road parts like bumpers with push bars. Their Instagram is the best place to explore their work.

@bajadesigns: Baja Designs offers off-road lighting products, including the S8 30″ Amber Driving Combo. Find it at bajadesigns.com.

@switch.pros.official: For the SP9100 switch controller, visit switchpros.com.

@sdhq: SDHQ provides high-quality off-road accessories and parts, including switch controllers like the SP9100. Visit them at sdhqoffroad.com.

@bfgoodrichtires: The KO2 37×12.5R17 tires can be found at bfgoodrichtires.com.

@racelinewheels: Raceline Wheels offers off-road wheels like the Aero HD Machined 17s. Explore their products at racelinewheels.com.

@advfiberglass: ADV Fiberglass manufactures front and rear fender replacements. Visit them at advfiberglass.com.

@morimotolighting: Morimoto offers advanced automotive lighting, including the XB Gen 2 headlights. You can find them at morimotolighting.com.

@boraoffroad: Bora Offroad specializes in spacers like the 2-inch ones. Visit boraoffroad.com.

@carvenexhaust: Carven Exhaust provides the Carven R Catback system. Visit carvenexhaust.com.

@evilmfg: Evil Manufacturing offers custom parts like the 3rd brake light with antenna and BD S2 lights. Check their products on their Instagram.

@ekstromdesign: Ekstrom Design produces off-road accessories like 3-inch shackles and differential kits. Their Instagram is the best place to explore their work.

@spyderauto: Spyder Auto manufactures taillights, including those with the official Toyota TRD stamp. Explore their products at spyderauto.com.

Insane Front CoilOvers for your Tundra

FOX Factory Race 3.0 Internal Bypass Coil-Over Reservoir Shock (Pair) – Adjustable

Price: $3,699.95
Part Number: 883-06-219

For those looking to elevate their Toyota Tundra’s off-road performance, the FOX Factory Race Series 3.0 Internal Bypass shocks offer exceptional technology designed for rugged, high-speed terrain. These shocks bring race-bred performance to a bolt-on kit, combining position-sensitive damping with Dual Speed Compression (DSC) adjustment, making them an ideal choice for serious off-road enthusiasts.

Key Features:

• Patented Internal Bypass Technology: Multiple damping zones allow for a comfortable ride during normal driving, but provide extra support when handling rough terrain. The shocks adjust progressively to control hard bottom-outs and top-outs, enhancing safety and performance.
• Recirculating Reservoir Bridge: This ensures the continuous exchange of shock fluid between the finned external reservoir and the shock body, keeping temperatures low for improved durability.
• 3-inch Diameter Aluminum Bodies: These are CNC-machined and Type III anodized for resistance against corrosion and wear.
• DSC Adjuster: Customize your vehicle’s suspension for load, environment, and driving style, making your Tundra ready for any situation.

Performance Specifications:

• Travel: 5.37 inches
• Extended Length: 21.6 inches
• Compressed Length: 15.65 inches
• Mounting: OEM top mount, Eyelet bottom mount
• Springs: Application-specific springs designed for your Tundra.
• Sealing System: Includes a redundant pack system with main seal, wiper seal, and scraper seal to maintain durability and prevent leakage.

Vehicle Fitment:

This coil-over shock is designed for 2022-2024 Toyota Tundras. It provides a 2-2.25 inch front lift, but keep in mind that upper control arms and extended CV axles are required for non-TRD trims.

• TRD Off-Road/PRO trims: No need for extended axles if using the TRD Off-Road/PRO red axle or the 3” TRD Lift Kit silver axle.
• Non-TRD trims: Extended CV Axles are required for safe operation.

Why Consider the FOX 3.0 Internal Bypass Shocks?

These shocks are specifically designed to handle the demands of high-speed, off-road driving while maintaining a comfortable ride on paved roads. With position-sensitive damping, they adapt to various terrains, giving you the confidence to tackle more challenging environments. This suspension system also offers heat management for consistent performance under extreme conditions.

If you’re looking to transform your Toyota Tundra into a high-performance off-road machine, the FOX Factory Race Series 3.0 Internal Bypass shocks are an exceptional investment, delivering race-proven capabilities straight to your daily driver.

For more details and purchasing options, check out FOX’s official page or your preferred off-road accessory retailer.

Improving on the Raptor

This is a comparison of the stock F-150 Raptor, however there are many performance, accessories, and upgrades that can be made to the Raptor. Check out our top list of Ford Raptor Upgrades.