ddwyer

My first was an '85 Hilux 4x4 std cab 22RE. I sold it too early (130k) primarily because of body/bed rot and lack of interior space.

I bought a '94 Hillux 4x4 x-cab 22RE in '95. It has 217k with a replaced engine in '08. It has some good fender rot, but the frame is sound.

I have just dealt with an overheating problem and am not sure I want to spend the time on HG replacement if I end up needing one. Besides, the truck is getting a little rattley (sp?).

Part of me wants to keep the truck running, part of me wants a new truck. The frugal yankee in me definitely wants to keep it running.

If I did "upgrade", I would go no newer than an '04 Tacoma, I don't like the size increase in '05 and later.

The question I have to you Tacoma owners, is what are drawbacks to an '04 vintage Tacoma over m7 '94 Hilux?

I don't offroad and basically want a commuter that can handle snow and cargo with good mileage.

sl0annuggets

some of them get the frame cancer but its under warranty. if you can find a 2.7 those are great engines. they just go.

yotaman85

the '04 taco will be much more comfortable, look a little better and get slightly better mileage.. but it will not be as cool as say a restored '86. which will cost less, be reliable, comfy and still have the retro factor...

i say spend $5k on a late 80's pickup, that amount of money will get you a great daily driver..

turkeykiller365

yeah i love driving a unique truck. Its has the old "retro factor", but the new paint, etc keeps it from looking old and tired. i mean for a grand total of under 700 dollars invested (including buying the thing) theres nothing id really rather drive.

tumor21

In the middle of a HG job right now on my 87 22re (it's not the hardest thing in the world for even a novice mechanic) Have a much cleaner, faster, louder mustang at home next to it, but everyone loves my 87 extra cab 4x4 more. Retro factor is awesome. I'd agree with yotaman85, for much less than a newer tacoma you could get a late 80's rig with better gas milage than a new model with 4x4.