3rd or 4th Gen.
 

Im kinda gettin the itch for something different and need a little help with which way to go. I currently have an 86 4-runner sr5 and am thinking of selling it and purchasing a 3rd or 4th gen or maybe a fj if i can land a stripped model. What would be your preferance and why. Will do some light wheeling and would like some decent gas milege. I know the 4th gen have lockers so thats a plus and the prices arent to bad either. So, whats your opinion let me have it and maybe some insight on what to look for when shopping around. I guess i could always hold on to the 86 ??? I cant decide.

whats your budget?

Budget is around $10,000 to $12,000.

my 98 has a factory locker .... i like the 4th gens but they dont come with manual

forget 4th gen, you might find a 4th gen for under 20 but thats about it. most 4th gens used are around 20 to 25k used. look at a 99 runner, that might be a good starting point.. e locked, also the highlander is avail with hood scoop, highest ride height etc etc

4th gen (03-current) dont have a locking rear diff. 96-99 4Runners are the ones that has the available electronic rear locking differential. NO 4Runner had "lockerS" (no front locker on 4Runners, only FZJ80 Land Cruisers had front locker)

The '99s are a good start for people on a budget since they got all the upgrades (lights,power outlets,auto up/down windows and much better cup holder location) and getting a Highlander is just a bonus.

I'm glad I "upgraded" from my '97 and the locker is great if you actually do take it off road.

3rd gen does sound more in line with what i am willing to spend what type of gas mileage do you get on the highlander ? What about the 99 with the 5spd ? just curious. Dont want to regret getting rid of the 86 but i would like more room for the kiddies and some more options.

I drive agressive and have the heavier Nittos and with the auto I see about 16-17mpg but with the 5 speed in my '97 I was getting about 40 more miles a tank so I was pushing almost 19 around town.

5speed is the only thing I wish I had in my '99 otherwise I'm very happy with it and at 117k it has zero problems and burns no oil.

Thanks for the insight i am looking around and still trying to decide. Anyone else have any input?

I have a 1999 5-speed. I got it 3 weeks ago. I upgraded from a 1994 5-speed. I really like it in comparison to the 1994. Unfortunately these are hard to find 5-speed, and mine does not have a locker. The increase in power is awesome and it drives at about 600 rpm lower at the same speed in 5th gear.
One thing I really liked about the 2nd gen is the tail gate, the 3rd gen does not have it. Millage wise, I was doing about 15 MPG with the 1994, and now I am doing about 18 MPG with the 1999. This is city driving, it seems to be a bigger improvement on the highway, however I have only had it for three weeks.