I was thinking the same thing...

 

Paddlenbike hit it just right. If the best 3.4 is your deciding factor, you should be wayyyyy more worried about buying a used engine regardless the year of make.

The 3.4 in my 96 is easily the equivalent of a V8 in a pickup, weight to power ratio. Still running flawless after 230K.

 

Uhh...

 

The 1999 - 2002 also have slightly improved interior features and also a few features that were not on the earlier models. Also, the 3rd body mount located near the bottom point of the B-pillar was not present in the earlier models.

 

Eh, forged and cast parts don't look the same...

Just because you assume there were differences and assume you are right doesn't mean you are. 5VZ-FE power and torque never changed, which is a good indication that nothing affecting output changed. The first-year engines had a head gasket issue already mentioned. That, unlike the 3VZ-E's problem, didn't require redesigning the engine.

What do the early 22R-E, later 22R-E, 2RZ-FE, and 3RZ-FE have to do with a 5VZ-FE? One word: nothing.

 

Redesigned the engine, huh? Interesting.

 

i think this forum is great. for you to say people are ignorant is your own opinion. theres some very intelligent users on here and also very creative. as for your question i havent had any problems with my 97 limited. if i was in your position id find a used complete engine, check compression, replace timing belt, water pump and put it in. but im always on a low budget, but i also beleive in qaulity parts too.

good luck!!

 

Also, don't be put off by leaky valve cover gaskets. Just tighten them back down every 60K or so.

My 3.4, besides being a dog (to me), has been perfect. Never had so much as a check engine light on it in 196K.