AndroT100

Can anyone that has driven both give us a comparison of the handling and ride between these two?

Thanks in advance!

BT17R

I owned an '03 4Runner Limited V-8 4X4 with X-REAS and rear air suspension for almost a year, close enough to an SE for comparison purposes. I also drove an '05 Tacoma TRD Off-Road D-Cab V-6 4X4 5A/T Standard Bed for almost 200 miles over a few days.

The 'Runner handles better with X-REAS, a shorter wheelbase, and what felt like slightly quicker steering turn-in response, but that could've been the w/b or street tires.

The Taco rides better with a longer wheelbase and what felt like greater wheel travel with softer dampers, but was no slouch in the handling department with the semi-street tires. I think that will change toward an even better ride if you get the Long Bed model with the 141" wheelbase, longer even than a Tundra D-Cab!.

Click on my sig for more info on the '05 Taco. You're welcome!

Edit: I ordered an '05 Taco TRD Sport D-Cab V-6 4X4 6M/T Long Bed. I hope it fits in the garage.

AndroT100

Great to hear about your experience. Thanks again!

Did you calculate MPGS while you had the DC? I am curious what the real world MPGS are of the V6.

BT17R

Well, I calculated MPG but didn't believe it. After fill-up and using miles/gallons I came up with 23.1 MPG. NO WAY I ever meet, let alone exceed EPA ratings in any vehicle, especially the way I drove that one. I think the gas jockey (no self-service allowed in Oregon) short-filled it. Still, it should do better than what the V-6 Runner owners with the same engine report here (?) because it's at least 400 lbs. lighter and will have another gear or two depending on tranny.

One more thing: I never heard any pinging although it was filled with Regular 87 (Premium 91 recommended). It would've been a little stronger with 91 and full spark advance, though I had no shortage of power even blasting through the mountains at 4,000' elevation.

I'm anxious to drive a TRD Sport for comparison. I'm hoping it'll be a good all-around compromise with the more useful Torsen limited slip, firmer suspension and bigger wheels and tires. The TRD Off-Road was almost too soft for me. It's not floaty at all, and I'm sure it'll benefit off-road manners, but I prefer a more on-road tuned suspension.

AndroT100

Thanks for the words....I am wondering about the differences between off-road and sport options. Does the sport also get the bigger sway bar and shocks...what specifically are the differences besides the wheels and tires?

BT17R

Click on my sig and scroll toward the end. I posted all the links you'll need.