if the 3.0 is getting u nervous in a 2nd gen, y not look into a 4cyl/5spd 2nd gen?
i had a 90 with the 22RE/auto, it was a bit of a dog, but with a bad trans (my doings) and a variance of 33-35's with 4.10s its to be expected
i'm sure with the 5spd the 4cyl wouldnt be as much as a dog in the 2nd gen

 

I have both, i love both, but for a DD, def go with a 96+... they ride beautifully and are just as capabale (if not more) then a 2nd gen... plus they look better, get better mpg, more power, just as if not more reliable, made in japan, (both are) and aftermarket is bigger for the 3rd gen... do it!

 

For me, the 2nd gen 22re feels underpowered on anything more than a flat grade, but regearing certainly helps if you've got bigger than stock tires.

 

Odd, the tailgate is about the only thing that miss about my 2nd gen when I moved up to a 3rd gen.

 

They had a HG recall on the '96-'98s but it didn't seem to be a real problem.

Most '99s and some of the early run of '00s had the taller coils but not all had them;all the Highlander/Sport models did but the others were hit and miss.

 

There are pros and cons to both, I guess it just depends more on what you're normal use would be. I can see why having a tailgate would be nice, I just thought it was a little less convenient for multiple openings and closings on a daily basis.
In reality, the engine, airbags and other updates are bigger issues between the generations.

 

I just went to the ORS website to get info on the 3.4 swap. Damn thet would be high to do it right. Heres what im thinking know

1.3.0 -3.4 swap high $$$$ even doing it myself

2.I would really hate to hack into a nice 94 or95 runner and take a chance of never getting it right.

3.I can just spend a few extra coins and get atleast a 96. Then i can just build around what i have then do engine upgrades for more power.

4. The lift gate is a nice rain shelter

5.I have researched alot on here the last few days. I think I made up my mind to look for a 96 plus. Thanks for all the input it helped alot

 

I have a second gen 1990 4Runner with a 5spd and a 22RE. I love it. It is a little underpowered but it isn't a sports car so that's ok. If you go 22RE, try to find one with a 5spd. Spend $400 buying 4.56 or 4.88 thirds if you plan on running 31s or bigger. My favorite part about the 22RE is that it is very easy to work on. I had never even changed my oil when I did the timing chain, head gasket, new intake and exhaust gaskets and belts.

 

I love my little 4 banger '92.

But I think the 3rd gen is your best bet