Alright I am new to this forum, but I have been on TTORA for about 2.5-3 yrs and YotaTech for about 5 or so.

I currently have a 98 Tacoma and I have outgrown it. I currently own a weekend business running live sound for band within Southern MD and further out. The trailer I tow is a 5x8 with about 2k LBS of gear (Gross is about 3K). Plus my Tacoma has 182k miles on it. My Tacoma Specs are: 2.7L I4, 5 speed Trans, 4x4, 33x10.5, 2-3? lift, 4:56 gears.

So the two vehicles I am debating between are:
2003-2006 4Runner SR5 V8 (not 3rd row seat one)
or
2003-2006 Tundra extended cab, 4x4 and V8

Some times I will be carrying a couple people in the rear seat. I will also be using my new truck/SUV as a daily driver. The rated towing is within 100 lbs of each other.

I used to own a 94 4Runner and I loved it, it was totaled? so I bought a 98 Tacoma and I love it also. So I can?t decide which one to choose.

 

Ive got a friend with the tundra you talked about and its great!

 

If yer gonna tow I'd opt for the truck Tundras are NICE!!!

 

You indicated that you may carry people now and then. I personally would get the 4Runner, especially if the rated towing capacity is only 100lbs apart.

Troy

 

i like the look of the 4runners better, and if the towing capacities are really that close, then i would stick with the runner. the tundras are nice though. i actually woulda thought the tundras could outpull the runner by a bunch.

 

just get a crewcab tundra... double open doors, and has a bed.

 

Is the Tundra frame different from the 4Runner frame? I would have guessed that the Tundra was more capable of towing than the 4Runner. Are the engines the same in both of them or does the Tundra have more torque? I think they could both pull an enclosed trailer, it just depends on what you put in the trailer that might make a difference. If they're similar, I would get the 4Runner for the passenger room and inside cargo room.

 

This is like asking which color is the best Its all a matter of personal preference and needs.

First, the people you sometimes carry: Are they friends, helper, band members or other? If they are important to your weekend job, then I would opt for the 4runner to make sure they are comfortable. If not, perhaps the Tundra would do.

Do you NEED interior/dry/safe/lockable storage? If so, 4runner. But you could always get a shell for the bed of the Tundra. Do you ever need to haul larger items that wont fit in/on the trailer you tow?

Do you have family to haul? Gas mileage will be right around the same, Tundra slightly better. I believe '05+ 4x4 v8 4runners had the option of 5spd Autos.

Price: I am seeing '00-'06 Tundras go for $6K-$20K now . 4th gen 4runners I still see for $15K+.

Ever consider a 2nd gen Tacoma? They have ample room, ample towing capacity and get excellent MPG. My ex-gf has an '06 access cab v6 5spd auto 4x4 and gets 16-18 city and 24 hwy. I see these going for $15K-$25K. You can also get a 6spd manual trans, a nice supercharger and TRD off-road (with rear locker!)
The choice is yours