I need some advice.

I'm selling my 1994 Pickup and gonna be buying a 4 runner for work purposes. I will be driving 150-200 miles per day on average. I need something reliable.

I am looking at a really nice 1995 4 runner 4x4 automatic with the 3.0, it's got 87,xxx miles and is in excellent condition. http://ocala.craigslist.org/cto/4531346416.html

I've heard some rumors that these engines are underpowered and tend to overheat in the up speeds. I love in Florida so no steep mountains to climb on the highways.

I'm also looking at the newer 4 runners with the 4.0 v6, which supposedly have a timing chain and not a belt, but the ones around my price range all have over 150,000 miles on them and they are at the top end of what I want to spend and I'll have to take out a loan to get that new of a vehicle.

Just looking for advice from folks who've had the 3.0 or 4.0 and what their experience/advice would be in my quest to find a reliable work vehicle (has to be 4x4).

 

I say go with the 4.0 V6 since you will be commuting up to 200 miles a day.

Is there nothing available with the 3.4 V6? That might be the best option with regard for price, reliability, and highway manners.

The 3.0 coupled with the auto tranny is a real test of patience on the highway.

 

I would suggest going to the 3rd generation 4runners, 1996-2001. They will have the 3.4L V6, which is a great engine with plenty of power. A slightly longer wheel base than the 2nd gen 1995, more comfortable on the highway, and a rear seat that will comfortably seat adults. You should be able to pick one up with less than 150,000 miles or so for 4-5 grand in Florida if you look for a while. At that mileage, a 3rd gen will still have an easy 100,000 miles of trouble free operation left in it.

 

3.4 ftw.