I've had my '97 4runner for over 10 years now and it's time for a new DD! I love the 4runner and have no intention of selling it. But it's on 35s now, 216K on the chassis and tranny, a lot of extra weight in armor, and pretty poor mpgs, so it's just not a very practical DD anymore.

I'll still get lots of use out of the 4runner as my mountain truck for winter, wheeling and camping. But for on road, I need something a little faster, that handles better and gets better mpgs. I miss having a pickup so I'm set on a 1st gen, 5 spd, 4x4 Taco and whatever I get, it's staying bone stock. But, here's where I need some advice from owners... I'm torn...

Regular Cab 2.7 = a little better mpgs and power
Ext. Cab 2.7 = more legroom and storage

Do you guys think there will be a big difference in power and mpgs or no? An ext. cab would be better for me, but I live at 6K ft. so if it's going to be noticeably slower, I'd rather sacrifice the legroom and get a regular cab.

So what do you guys think? Any input is appreciated and if anyone knows of a good deal out there within a few hundred miles of Socal, lemme know! Thanks.