new to yotatech, and want to ask everybody which 4runner
(1gen or 2gen) they like better and why. Trying to make a decision on which one to buy. thanks

 

1st gen. removable top.

 

before you get flamed for asking without searching, just know that yotatechers are expected to do research on the subject and looking for similar threads on their own before starting a new thread.

Now, as to which runner, I have a 2nd gen, and I like the civility of the thing. I'd like to point out that in my opinion you genuinely NEED a manual transmission I think the 2nd gen has a better looking body, and has four doors. If you like the 2-door style, or have a specific appreciation for a removable hard top, its clear you should go for 1st gen. I would like to point out, however, that the 2nd gens have just about the biggest single sunroof I have ever seen and a power rear window, so that's a lot of wind in the 'ol hair. If you are going rock climbing or off-camber slow speed crawling on any type of terrain of that sort, the older 1st gen 4x4s with the solid front axle and the 4 cylinder transfer case would be a great starting point for a capable rig. One last problem to think about, is that 1st gen 4runners are rare in good condition, so when you find one worth buying and falling in love with, it's going to cost you markedly more than a 2nd gen with the same miles and equipment. Welcome to Yotatech!

 

X2 it also has extra room if needed to haul with the top off and it's just so coooooooooooollllllllllll to be running top less

I own 2 2nd gen's 1 1993 S.A.S. 1 1990 I.F.S. and 1 1988 1st gen and the 1st gen is just so cool to run down the road with doors and top off it's a real head turner lol

 

I have a 2nd gen and would recommend it but I also secretly want a 1st gen.

 

x2! couldn't have said it better myself!

 

X3! But don't tell nobody......lol

 

I have a 2nd gen and would recommend it but I also secretly want a diesel engine in it.

 

I have a Taco and want nothing more and nothing less.....






Well maybe a 3.4, Front 80 LC axle w/ inchworm lefty 4.7 doubled up, 3 linked and locked.




But dont tell the current suspension that

 

have you driven each?

 

Every once in a while you get lucky and find a 1st gen in pretty good shape for just a little money. Remember that sometimes a few little problems (idle, start up, lack of power) will drive someone nuts long enough to make them sell the rig just to get away from it.

I got this one for 1500$ since it had a starting issue. Turns out the negative battery cable was loose where it attached to the block.



A couple hundred dollars later.



Get a 1st gen if you can find one. You'll never be sorry you did.

 

What are you gonna use it for? 'Wheeling - 1st gen. Mallin' - 2nd gen.

1st gen is lighter, more room to cut fenders to fit bigger tires with less lift. Simpler

2nd gen is far more comfortable inside.

 

Definitely a first gen. Especially an 85

 

Here you go.
http://albuquerque.craigslist.org/cto/1238273364.html

1985, SFA, Power windows....... 1500$. If I had any cash liquid right now I'd buy this one and wheel the crap out of it.

 

1st Gen......secretly want another 1st gen

 

x whatever on the '85--SA and find one with EFI...stay away from a 4Runner with a 3.0 V-6...not one of toyota's better ideas, probably built by the same factory that makes their crappy rear saggy springs

Awesome Deal except it looks like he rattle canned right over the stickers
a buddy of mine at work just sold his '85 runner (126K miles) for $4800...it was a great example of stock