I like my 97, mostly because i own it and its a 5speed 4wd with the 3rz
I think the best year would be the 98, you get some updated interior, but not as much electrical stuff as the 99+. You may sit lower than the 99, but you can always lift it.
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97 4runner, 2.7 5speed 4wd, 5.29, 33 horns
armor
locked
lifted
heavy SOB
broken front and rear swaybars
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