FJ vs 3rd Gen 4Runner - Off Road

NOVA Runner · 06-03-2006, 04:29 PM

For off shelf OEM equipped off-road ability, which is better, 3rd Gen 4Runner Lmtd or FJ.

After closely comparing the specs on the great looking FJ, noticed many of the same specs comparible or the same to the 4Runner. Albeit the FJ's styling rocks, I'm curious why Toyota has designed 9" ground clearance, if pushing as a hardcore off-roader?

My '01 Runner Limited has near 11" clearance OEM, close to same rear diff ratio 4:1-4R to 3.91:1-FJ; Transfer case H1.0/L2.566 (same), ATRAC & VSC (same). FJ has less interior space/cargo volume, but more headroom. FJ is wider, higher and heavier w/ same wheelbase.

FJ has better engine (more HP/torque), slight mileage increase (VVT) and rear disc brakes.

Not sure about the FJ suspension? Does it have more range of vertical travel?

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Localmotion · 06-03-2006, 04:58 PM

isnt the FJ locked f/r?

Bighead · 06-03-2006, 05:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Localmotion

isnt the FJ locked f/r?

No...rear only. Toyota's last OEM locked front was the 97 FZJ80.

EDIT: I don't know if that is true for non-US Toys.

914runner · 06-08-2006, 02:18 PM

What year of 3rd gen are you comparing? Because from what I understand, only the '01 and '02 3rd gens have ATRAC.

Good Times · 06-08-2006, 02:32 PM

both are capable vehicles. i think the fj sits slightly lower but very insignificant.

some differences though:
1. front diff is 8" vs the 7.5". this means stronger front end (including the axles) and the associated parts.
2. atrac system is much more improved (I'd say in the magnitude of like double digits) and even more fine tuned compared to the 4th gen 4runner.

the fj may lack the initial vertical height but does gain a more powerful atrac that helps. w/ both vehicles lifted, I'd go with the FJ if both were free

JHupp · 06-08-2006, 02:33 PM

If your comparing function over form, I would have to go with the FJ, ATRAC and a rear locker, are a win/win combo. 4runners could be had from 99-00 with a rear locker, and 01-02 with ATRAC, but never both. Ehh, when it comes to form over function, I think a 3rd gen has the FJs beat hand down, and I will take that little bit of a compromise off road for a much much better looking truvk. Come on, you know you want the hood scoop, 4 real doors, with some real back seat leg room, a rear view without a ginormous blind spot.

Jared · 06-09-2006, 07:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Good Times

both are capable vehicles. i think the fj sits slightly lower but very insignificant.

some differences though:
1. front diff is 8" vs the 7.5". this means stronger front end (including the axles) and the associated parts.
2. atrac system is much more improved (I'd say in the magnitude of like double digits) and even more fine tuned compared to the 4th gen 4runner.

the fj may lack the initial vertical height but does gain a more powerful atrac that helps. w/ both vehicles lifted, I'd go with the FJ if both were free

Completely agree. After offroading with a bunch of them out at Barstow, I'd have to say that they are REALLY capable offroad in stock trim. The ATRAC system is really amazing, their stock tires were spinning less that my SS's at times.

k_os · 06-09-2006, 09:57 AM

one the thing the FJ has on the 4runners Tacos etc.. It's the IFS, they are the same components but tweaked for an offroader. Slightly more down travel and for example the CV axles are at a bit of an angle so that when you lift it, the CVs don't suffer as much. Don't really know all the details but that's what I've gatehred form tother threads

Good Times · 06-09-2006, 10:04 AM

Actually the IFS system is exactly the same. The only difference is the coils since the 4runner is significantly heavier (esp the v8). The biggest difference between all of them is the sophisticated atrac that the FJ has. Since the first gen atrac there's been 2 full upgrades, 4th gen 4runner getting the big upgrade and the fj getting even a better upgrade.

k_os · 06-09-2006, 10:24 AM

Well, that's what the guys over at All-Pro said, I don't know the details but the basic lowdown it's the same components looks the same just "tweaked" if you will for off road terrain

lee · 06-09-2006, 11:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Good Times

Actually the IFS system is exactly the same. The only difference is the coils since the 4runner is significantly heavier (esp the v8). The biggest difference between all of them is the sophisticated atrac that the FJ has. Since the first gen atrac there's been 2 full upgrades, 4th gen 4runner getting the big upgrade and the fj getting even a better upgrade.

are we talking 3rd or 4th gen 4runner here?

k_os · 06-09-2006, 11:12 AM

The tittle says 3rd gen so I assume he was talking about 3rd gens but since he owns a 4th gen I think

X-AWDriver · 09-17-2006, 08:33 AM

Thread revival since it got interuppted 4th gen comments.

FJ40 · 09-18-2006, 12:58 PM

The FJC has an advantage over both generation 4runners. The wheelbase is less on the FJ making it a better off road, assuming its the same ground clearence. Also the FJ has more wheel travel than the 4runner.

pat161 · 09-18-2006, 01:38 PM

Not really going to say which is better, as I really don't know. But to say the FJC is better because it has less wheelbase is actually giving the argument to the 3rd gen. 3rd gen w/b = 105.3 and 66.6 width, FJC w/b = 105.9 74.6 width, so the 3rd gen is a bit shorter and a bit narrower. Unless you are saying a bit longer and wider is better.

Also the 4.10 in the 4Runner is lower than the 3.90 in the FJC, so another point for the Runner, and 3rd gens came w/ as low as 4.56. The Runner also has almost 2 inches more clearance. I would at least be willing to say a 96-00 elocked 4Runner or a 01/02 ATRAC 4Runner would be able to follow the FJC most anywhere.

And I think it is a bit too soon to say the 4.0 all aluminum motor is better than the trusty old cast block 3.4. It may be more powerful, but it has not proven itself the way the 3.4 and 2.7 have.

An 8" front ring gear is nice, I did not realize Toyota had switched from the 7.5" front. But with all the extra power, weight and traction devices how much extra strength does that translate to? The FJC is about 300lbs heavier than a LTD 3rd gen and all other 3rd gens are a bit lighter.

FJ40 · 09-18-2006, 02:05 PM

You may have a point about the motor. The 3.4 was excellent, and had more power at a lower rpm than the 4.0. Being that the 3rd gen 4runner no longer exists, compared to the choices currently, the FJC wins. However, let us not rule out the Landcruiser, as that's probably much better than the 4th gen 4runner, and much closer to the FJC. Remember, the Landcruiser has better ground clearence even though its a little longer wheel base. The 4.7 is also a well proven iron block motor.

vudbster · 09-26-2006, 10:11 PM

The 4runner also wins in other offroad requirements. It has much better and thicker skid plates. (FJ has plastic gas tank skid??) The front skidplate on the FJ is more of a mud scoop if you ask me. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gen 'runners had vunerable components like the exhaust system tucked away like they should be. Don't get me wrong, I really like the FJ but it doesn't seem like a step forward in the offroad department in some aspects.

Mike.

X-AWDriver · 09-27-2006, 09:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FJ40

You may have a point about the motor. The 3.4 was excellent, and had more power at a lower rpm than the 4.0. Being that the 3rd gen 4runner no longer exists, compared to the choices currently, the FJC wins.

But the thread is about 3rd gens vs FJs not what's out currently out there which 3rd gens still exist and there's a few hundred thousand of them out there so this thread is relevant. The FJ doesn't win based on 3rd gens not being produced since there's plenty of them on trails all over.

Ric · 09-27-2006, 09:55 AM

Quote:

Being that the 3rd gen 4runner no longer exists

I must be dreaming every weekend that Im wheeling..

the new FJs are w i d e, wider than my 99, and have been on some trails that the new FJ just would not fit. but them trails are few and far between, i would like to see one in action.

FJ40 · 09-27-2006, 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by X-AWDriver

But the thread is about 3rd gens vs FJs not what's out currently out there which 3rd gens still exist and there's a few hundred thousand of them out there so this thread is relevant. The FJ doesn't win based on 3rd gens not being produced since there's plenty of them on trails all over.

They may be many on the road, but one cannot readily go out and buy one easily. Compared to current production, the FJ is the winner off-road.

vegaskurt · 09-27-2006, 01:42 PM

Wheel base is pretty close between the FJ and the 3rd gen. Exit/entrance angle is probably better on the FJC but the FJC is also wider. If its a 96 to 99 3rd gen with the rear E-locker I think it would go everywhere the FJC went. (I've never driven a 00+ 3rd gen so I cant comment on them.)

The big advatage to the FJC would be having ATRAC dealing with wheel spin in the front. But IMHO the stock 3rd gen flexes a lot better in the rear.

Disadvantage for the FJC would be the amount of plastic sticking out, rear tail
lights come to mind.

Another offroading advantage of a 3rd gen would be price. I would scream if I rolled my 3rd gen but I would have to commit insurance fraud if I rolled a FJC.

And lastly, the 3rd gen was not available in Simpson yellow which can be a huge hinderance when offroading.

(I'm not bashing the FJC, if my 97 got totalled tomorrow I would get an FJC)

X-AWDriver · 09-27-2006, 02:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FJ40

They may be many on the road, but one cannot readily go out and buy one easily. Compared to current production, the FJ is the winner off-road.

Point taken but that thinking will kill the thread since your making the point moot since the 3rds aren't current. They're still more available than an FJ and at a 3rd of the cost. Over a half million were sold so let me know when the FJ hit half that.

I still don't see how current a vehicle is makes it more capable tho'. It's like say somebody getting beat in their ''07 Vette in the 1/4 by a '97 Supra but not acknowledging the Supra due to it not being "current".

Ok,let's compare 3rd gens to FJs please.

RunnerUp · 09-27-2006, 02:49 PM

3rd gens all the way... not as plasticky (new word) and they have a real interior

4rnr · 09-28-2006, 07:08 AM

In keeping with the "offroad" comparison.

After having alot of experience with both Im going to have to say the fjcruiser. Better geometry, and that 4wd system they have WORKS. The last few events ive been too the fjc trail team was there, which also attracts alot of newbies with their own fjc's. So I get to watch the newbs and the experts push these things and they are VERY impressive. It may not have a front locker but the 4wd system works so well that the drivers often turn off the rear locker. and I never saw 1 differential open up ever.

Even a friend of mine who has an fzj80 with the lockers and tried the fjc says that the fjc would spank his truck stock to stock.

BUT since I wouldnt be wheeling either Id rather be driving the 4runner. The fjc still looks too much like a gimick.

X-AWDriver · 09-28-2006, 07:20 AM

The 3rd gen at the moment has many more choices in mods and cheaper too.

06-08-2006, 02:18 PM	#4 (permalink)
914runner Contributing Member Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Tigard, Oregon Posts: 2,083	What year of 3rd gen are you comparing? Because from what I understand, only the '01 and '02 3rd gens have ATRAC. __________________ 1997 Toyota 4Runner, 3.4L (5VZ-FE), 5-Speed (R150F), 4WD, 4.10's, 33's 1998 Toyota 4Runner, 3.4L (5VZ-FE), 5-Speed (R150F), 4WD, 4.10's, 33's 1991 Toyota 4Runner 4 Door, 3.4l (5VZ-FE), 5-Speed (R150F), 4WD, 32's, 4.10's

06-08-2006, 02:32 PM	#5 (permalink)
Good Times Contributing Member Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Los Angeles, CA Posts: 4,693	both are capable vehicles. i think the fj sits slightly lower but very insignificant. some differences though: 1. front diff is 8" vs the 7.5". this means stronger front end (including the axles) and the associated parts. 2. atrac system is much more improved (I'd say in the magnitude of like double digits) and even more fine tuned compared to the 4th gen 4runner. the fj may lack the initial vertical height but does gain a more powerful atrac that helps. w/ both vehicles lifted, I'd go with the FJ if both were free __________________ 2003 4runner SR5 4x4 Chaos Edition Chaos Edition! Operation Rebuild Chaos Edition Need to reach me or ask questions? You can find me here!

06-08-2006, 02:33 PM	#6 (permalink)
JHupp Registered User Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: New Jersey Posts: 1,159	If your comparing function over form, I would have to go with the FJ, ATRAC and a rear locker, are a win/win combo. 4runners could be had from 99-00 with a rear locker, and 01-02 with ATRAC, but never both. Ehh, when it comes to form over function, I think a 3rd gen has the FJs beat hand down, and I will take that little bit of a compromise off road for a much much better looking truvk. Come on, you know you want the hood scoop, 4 real doors, with some real back seat leg room, a rear view without a ginormous blind spot. __________________ Jason '06 F250 Super Duty Daily Driver '01 Toyota 4Runner Sport 265/75/16 BFG ATs, OME 881s w/ spacers front, OME 891s rear, SS roll bar, and some other stuff. Out of Commision njttora.com Last edited by JHupp; 06-08-2006 at 02:34 PM.

06-09-2006, 10:04 AM	#9 (permalink)
Good Times Contributing Member Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Los Angeles, CA Posts: 4,693	Actually the IFS system is exactly the same. The only difference is the coils since the 4runner is significantly heavier (esp the v8). The biggest difference between all of them is the sophisticated atrac that the FJ has. Since the first gen atrac there's been 2 full upgrades, 4th gen 4runner getting the big upgrade and the fj getting even a better upgrade. __________________ 2003 4runner SR5 4x4 Chaos Edition Chaos Edition! Operation Rebuild Chaos Edition Need to reach me or ask questions? You can find me here!

06-09-2006, 11:12 AM	#12 (permalink)
k_os Registered User Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 20	The tittle says 3rd gen so I assume he was talking about 3rd gens but since he owns a 4th gen I think Last edited by k_os; 06-09-2006 at 11:13 AM. Reason: mistake

06-03-2006, 04:58 PM	#2 (permalink)
Localmotion Banned Join Date: Mar 2004 Posts: 0	isnt the FJ locked f/r?

06-09-2006, 09:57 AM	#8 (permalink)
k_os Registered User Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 20	one the thing the FJ has on the 4runners Tacos etc.. It's the IFS, they are the same components but tweaked for an offroader. Slightly more down travel and for example the CV axles are at a bit of an angle so that when you lift it, the CVs don't suffer as much. Don't really know all the details but that's what I've gatehred form tother threads

06-09-2006, 10:24 AM	#10 (permalink)
k_os Registered User Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 20	Well, that's what the guys over at All-Pro said, I don't know the details but the basic lowdown it's the same components looks the same just "tweaked" if you will for off road terrain

09-17-2006, 08:33 AM	#13 (permalink)
X-AWDriver Contributing Member Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Littleton,CO Posts: 10,173	Thread revival since it got interuppted 4th gen comments. __________________ '99 4Runner Highlander 4wd E-locker,rear diff and deckplate mod * 265/75/16 Nitto TerraGrapplers * Yakima Load Warrior rack * clear corners/signals * Tacoma skidplate * Silverstar lamps/fogs Alpine CDA-9831,Bazooka EL Series 250w amp,MTX 10" sub

09-18-2006, 12:58 PM	#14 (permalink)
FJ40 Registered User Join Date: Apr 2006 Posts: 111	The FJC has an advantage over both generation 4runners. The wheelbase is less on the FJ making it a better off road, assuming its the same ground clearence. Also the FJ has more wheel travel than the 4runner.

09-18-2006, 01:38 PM	#15 (permalink)
pat161 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Central MA Posts: 320	Not really going to say which is better, as I really don't know. But to say the FJC is better because it has less wheelbase is actually giving the argument to the 3rd gen. 3rd gen w/b = 105.3 and 66.6 width, FJC w/b = 105.9 74.6 width, so the 3rd gen is a bit shorter and a bit narrower. Unless you are saying a bit longer and wider is better. Also the 4.10 in the 4Runner is lower than the 3.90 in the FJC, so another point for the Runner, and 3rd gens came w/ as low as 4.56. The Runner also has almost 2 inches more clearance. I would at least be willing to say a 96-00 elocked 4Runner or a 01/02 ATRAC 4Runner would be able to follow the FJC most anywhere. And I think it is a bit too soon to say the 4.0 all aluminum motor is better than the trusty old cast block 3.4. It may be more powerful, but it has not proven itself the way the 3.4 and 2.7 have. An 8" front ring gear is nice, I did not realize Toyota had switched from the 7.5" front. But with all the extra power, weight and traction devices how much extra strength does that translate to? The FJC is about 300lbs heavier than a LTD 3rd gen and all other 3rd gens are a bit lighter.

09-18-2006, 02:05 PM	#16 (permalink)
FJ40 Registered User Join Date: Apr 2006 Posts: 111	You may have a point about the motor. The 3.4 was excellent, and had more power at a lower rpm than the 4.0. Being that the 3rd gen 4runner no longer exists, compared to the choices currently, the FJC wins. However, let us not rule out the Landcruiser, as that's probably much better than the 4th gen 4runner, and much closer to the FJC. Remember, the Landcruiser has better ground clearence even though its a little longer wheel base. The 4.7 is also a well proven iron block motor.

09-26-2006, 10:11 PM	#17 (permalink)
vudbster Registered User Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Vernon BC, Canada Posts: 90	The 4runner also wins in other offroad requirements. It has much better and thicker skid plates. (FJ has plastic gas tank skid??) The front skidplate on the FJ is more of a mud scoop if you ask me. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gen 'runners had vunerable components like the exhaust system tucked away like they should be. Don't get me wrong, I really like the FJ but it doesn't seem like a step forward in the offroad department in some aspects. Mike. __________________ 1997 Toyota 4Runner Limited, 5vz-fe, auto, E-Locker, 265/70/16 BFG Allterrains 1989 Toyota Xtracab Pickup 3vz-e, 5 speed, 50L aux fuel tank, 8000 pound Ramsey winch, Tube bumpers front and rear SOLD Bush rig 1986 Toyota 4runner 22re 5speed 31's, cb, more to come. http://www.geocities.com/vdubster1

09-27-2006, 01:42 PM	#21 (permalink)
vegaskurt Registered User Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Reno, NV Posts: 374	Wheel base is pretty close between the FJ and the 3rd gen. Exit/entrance angle is probably better on the FJC but the FJC is also wider. If its a 96 to 99 3rd gen with the rear E-locker I think it would go everywhere the FJC went. (I've never driven a 00+ 3rd gen so I cant comment on them.) The big advatage to the FJC would be having ATRAC dealing with wheel spin in the front. But IMHO the stock 3rd gen flexes a lot better in the rear. Disadvantage for the FJC would be the amount of plastic sticking out, rear tail lights come to mind. Another offroading advantage of a 3rd gen would be price. I would scream if I rolled my 3rd gen but I would have to commit insurance fraud if I rolled a FJC. And lastly, the 3rd gen was not available in Simpson yellow which can be a huge hinderance when offroading. (I'm not bashing the FJC, if my 97 got totalled tomorrow I would get an FJC) __________________ 1997 Limited 4Runner \| Stubbs Sliders \| Budbuilt Skid and Belly \| Homemade Bumper

09-27-2006, 02:49 PM	#23 (permalink)
RunnerUp Registered User Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Tampa, Florida Posts: 1,020	3rd gens all the way... not as plasticky (new word) and they have a real interior __________________ Kyle 2002 4Runner - Lifted/Locked/Armored/Charged - 145k Miles 2007 4Runner V8 Sport Edition 4WD 20k Miles Buy My Stuff!!! http://www.yotatech.com/f109/97-4run...rt-out-151470/

09-28-2006, 07:08 AM	#24 (permalink)
4rnr Registered User Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Plainfield, IL Posts: 1,469	In keeping with the "offroad" comparison. After having alot of experience with both Im going to have to say the fjcruiser. Better geometry, and that 4wd system they have WORKS. The last few events ive been too the fjc trail team was there, which also attracts alot of newbies with their own fjc's. So I get to watch the newbs and the experts push these things and they are VERY impressive. It may not have a front locker but the 4wd system works so well that the drivers often turn off the rear locker. and I never saw 1 differential open up ever. Even a friend of mine who has an fzj80 with the lockers and tried the fjc says that the fjc would spank his truck stock to stock. BUT since I wouldnt be wheeling either Id rather be driving the 4runner. The fjc still looks too much like a gimick. __________________ poop 1988 stock 4runner, v6, 5spd, soft top. 1990 fj62 stock and mint! 1992 4runner, 3.4, auto, SAS'ed, Marlin USA springs (4"/5"), 37" PBR's, 30 spline Longfields, Hydro assist, dual inchworms (5:1, twin stick, 23 spline, chromo output, 10* clock) 5.29's, lockrite's, custom exo, High angle drivelines drive shafts, 108" wheelbase, Warn hs9500i, Mcintosh/Dynaudio a/v system. The build up...http://www.yotatech.com/showthread.php?t=74915

09-28-2006, 07:20 AM	#25 (permalink)
X-AWDriver Contributing Member Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Littleton,CO Posts: 10,173	The 3rd gen at the moment has many more choices in mods and cheaper too. __________________ '99 4Runner Highlander 4wd E-locker,rear diff and deckplate mod * 265/75/16 Nitto TerraGrapplers * Yakima Load Warrior rack * clear corners/signals * Tacoma skidplate * Silverstar lamps/fogs Alpine CDA-9831,Bazooka EL Series 250w amp,MTX 10" sub

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