A drag race between two stock midsize pickup trucks is about as scientific as a drift competition with shopping carts. Pickup truck buyers are rarely interested in the performance aspect of these vehicles, but Carwow still gives us the answer to a question we never thought of asking – which is the quicker pickup truck. This time it’s the Toyota Hilux and Volkswagen Amarok that line up for a quarter-mile drag and despite the two vehicles being very similar on paper, the outcome is quite decisive.

You want the numbers, so here we go. The unit is mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox that has a sport mode, which always sounds amusing on a four-cylinder pickup truck. In addition, there is a ”Power” mode for the engine, which does nothing but sharpen the throttle response. The Hilux also weighs 4,630 pounds (2,100 kg) and costs £40,000 ($55 562).

The V-6 diesel is mated to an eight-speed ZF gearbox, which is one of the best units currently made.

The Amarok is slightly heavier at 4,850 pounds (2,200 kg) and £43,000. Of course, both pickup trucks feature 4X4, with the Amarok using VW’s 4Motion system.

Power-wise, Toyota is at a clear disadvantage, but will it be able to “power” out of it? The Hilux manages to take off the line first, but the more powerful Amarok quickly closes in and takes the lead. For the second race, the Hilux switches to sport mode. It doesn’t help as the Amarok effortlessly takes another win.

In the end, the VW Amarok reaches the quarter-mile in 16.5 seconds while the Toyota Hilux needs 18.2 seconds.

Can a rolling race make a difference? A 50 mph (80 km/h) rolling start allows the Hilux to gain the upper hand, but only for a brief moment. Once, the Amarok’s power kicks in, it’s gone. The Amarok also wins the 70 mph (113 km/h) braking test, despite it being slightly heavier.

Despite the annihilation, Matt states that the Toyota is more reliable and rugged. It also has a five-year warranty compared to Amarok’s three-year. We won’t go there, as it may start a heated debate between VW and Toyota fans, so only time will tell whether Matt is telling the truth or he’s simply being a sore loser. Don’t forget to check the video. Also, which of these pickup trucks would you choose?