Ford’s all-new F-150 Lightning has quickly grown to be one of the most popular EVs in its class. While there aren’t many electric pickups available, the Lightning has set a precedent for what the perfect electric pickup should offer. If you’re like many drivers and are not quite sure whether the Lightning stacks up to its gas-powered predecessor, the F-150, there’s plenty in store for you. Read on to learn more about the F-150 and the F-150 Lighting to see which is your perfect fit.

Different Engines, Same Great Ford F-150 Power

The base models of the Ford F-150 are powered by a 3.3 L V6 engine. With the ability to deliver a dependable 290 horsepower, this is a solid pickup for everyday work demands. When compared to the dual electric motors of the F-150 Lightning, drivers can expect quite a bit more power thanks to the dual electric motors that deliver an impressive 426 horsepower. The dual electric motors are paired with a battery pack and deliver a max 230-mile range on a full charge.

If you prefer the original gas-powered pickup, you will have several engine options to choose from. Available powertrains include the 3.5 L V6 and 3.5 L V6 hybrid engine that deliver 400 horsepower and 430 horsepower, respectively. When it comes to power, both models do not disappoint and stay true to the performance the F-150 is well-loved for. However, if you want some choice with engine options, sticking to the traditional gas-powered F-150 is the way to go.

Performance You Can Count On

With both models, drivers can still enjoy dependable performance that stands out against other pickups in their class. Fuel efficiency is pretty decent on the base model of the F150, with an EPA estimate of 20 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. When you’re toting around your gear, you can look forward to a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 lbs on the gas-powered F-150 and an impressive 10,000 lbs on the F-150 Lightning.

Payload capacity is also great, with a maximum payload of 14,000 lbs on the gas-powered F-150 and 10,000 lbs on the F-150 Lightning. Finally, the EV model is offered in four-wheel drive, while its predecessors are only offered in a rear-wheel drive standard powertrain. Of course, as you move up in the trim levels, you can adjust the powertrain as desired.

Muted Exterior Styling Differences

For the most part, both the F-150 and F-150 Lightning offer the same great appeal the pickup is known for. There aren’t many visual aspects to the exterior body style aside from the front grill. Both models tout a squared-off nose and a tall grill. However, the gas-powered model’s grill offers rounded edging at the end that connects to stacked LED headlights.

On the F-150 Lightning, there’s a more geometric rectangular grill that stretches across the nose in its entirety. This uniform look is very modern and on par with other EVs on the road.

Enjoy the Same Great Features You Love in the F-150

Much like the exterior, you won’t find much of a difference in the interior styling on both models. With both the gas-powered model and the EV model, drivers can enjoy the latest in tech and safety features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are offered in both models, and an eight-inch touch display screen is standard on both base models as well. No matter which model you pick, you’ll also be able to enjoy a slew of safety features, including forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, a power locking tailgate, rear auto braking, and much more.

Comfort throughout the cabin is also similar, and depending on the trim you choose in the gas-powered F-150, you’ll be able to enjoy the luxury of leather seating, a dual-zone auto climate control system, and much more.

ICE or Electric: Which F-150 Is Your Perfect Workhorse?

The future is electric, and the F-150 has made us splash in the scene of electric pickup trucks. With the ability to offer all the great features of a traditional internal combustion engine-powered pickup can and more, the Lightning has proven to be a workhorse that drivers can count on. When it comes to the best model, however, it really depends on your needs. The versatility of the gas power F-150 allows you to choose engine options and trims that work for you. While the Lightning is able to hold its own in a future that is undeniably electric.