I'm still happy with my '97, here's how it's equipped (from the '96-'02 price thread)

It's a 3.4 V6, 4x4, Anthracite metallic
with....
Alloy wheels
larger wheel, tire, and brake option
4.10 gearing
5 speed
premium sound
leather
cruise control
power windows & antenna
power moonroof
locking rear differential
all weather guard equip. pkg.
air conditioning
rear heater
rear cargo cover

And Toyo Open Country A/T LT265/75R 16 C's.

 

I would get a 98 because it has more upgrade potential and it has 1 cat. I like the 01 taillights but you can just buy'em. Just buy add-ons and youll have it bling'in.

 

Having had both the 98 and 99, I like the 98 better. It got out all the bugs/problems from the 96 and 97 (which weren't many). Its virtually TSB/quirk free and did I also say "available in 5 speed"?!?!

So did the 99s and 00s, but somehow, Toyota managed to screw it up a little with the 99 and 00s, most notably the infamous EL010 gas gauge problem. However as others have mentioned, the 99 and 00s have some terrific options (see above).

Bob

 

didn't have to mention that to me, hahaha.

 

What are the bugs/problems with the 96 and 97's?.

I have had exactly zero problems in 7.5 years, with my '97.

 

Any thing that does not have the 3.SLOW 3vze would have to be better.
I have done the HG job on 4 of the 2nd gens over here in JAPAN and have to do another one on mine. In Jan I broke a con rod going up to a ski resort. If I were in the states then I would find a state that does not care too much and get a 2nd gen and drop in a 3.4 or the 1z disel