When looking to purchase a new truck it can seem daunting to try to figure out what will be the best fit for yourself. This is especially true when there are such models as the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor and the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R. Some may get confused with the difference and why there is an “R” behind it. Is it simply a new trim level? Or an entirely new truck that is being produced? Let’s take a look.
Quick Specs Comparison
MSRP Starting Prices (subject to change):
- 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor starts at $78,375
- 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R starts at $109,145
Horsepower Ratings:
- The F-150 Raptor makes 450 horsepower from a twin turbo V6 engine.
- The F-150 Raptor R makes 700 horsepower from a supercharged V8 engine.
Seating Capacity:
- The F-150 Raptor will seat a total of 5 passengers.
- The F-150 Raptor R will also seat a total of 5 passengers.
Gas Mileage:
- 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor: 15 mpg in town and 18 mpg on the highway, 16 mpg combined.
- 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R: 10 mpg in town and 15 mpg on the highway, 12 mpg combined.
Towing Capacity:
- The Ford F-150 Raptor can tow up to 8,200 pounds.
- The Ford F-150 Raptor R will also be able to tow 8,200 pounds.
Technical Differences
Right off the bat let’s talk about the biggest difference that these two vehicles have. The new Ford F-150 Raptor R is a new truck in the 2023 line up. Ford is putting in a 5.2 liter V8 supercharged engine into the Raptor R. This engine, known as the “Predator” engine was seen in the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. These engines are able to put down an impressive 700 horsepower and close to 650 pounds of torque. The regular Ford F-150 Raptors still feature the 3.5 liter twin turbo engine that makes 450 horsepower and 510 pounds of torque.
The Ford Raptor comes standard with 35 inch tires, however there is an option to upgrade the Raptor to 37 inch tires. In comparison the Ford Raptor R comes with 37 inch BF Goodrich tires that are sure to be able to handle any terrain you may throw at it. The Raptor R is also a bit of a wider body than the regular Raptor. Since the Raptor R has a heavier engine powering it, it also has a stiffer front suspension than the Ford F-150 Raptor, however, it does not seem to affect the driving or handling of the vehicle in any significant way. The long-travel suspension which is featured on both of these trucks allow for smooth driving while on the road, or while you are flying through the desert at high speeds.
Another notable difference that we see in the Raptor R is the exhaust. Since this truck will be powered by a monstrous supercharged V8 engine there will be quite an exhaust system underneath. The new 2023 Raptor R will have exhaust presets built in. The three that have been identified are Baja, Sport, and Quiet Mode. All these different modes are controlled by steering wheel buttons, with an “R” button for your favorite presets.
So which should you choose?
From looking at the specifications on these two trucks it comes down to personal preference. The 2023 Ford Raptor can hold its own with the 450 horsepower that it can put down, however, the new brother is a powerhouse and quite the rival to some other trucks on the market for power. It will really come down to whether or not the price is worth getting close to 250 extra horsepower. No matter which trim level you choose you cannot go wrong with Ford’s new lineup of the Raptors this coming year!