Thanks for reading. If any of you cross post in the 95 and older thread, sorry for the duplicate post. I am trying to get opinions and figure the guys in there will have biases towards that model, and you in here will have biases towards the newer models (and more experience with their respective preferences) and wanted to get both sides of the issue's opinion,

Hey guys. First, I am so impressed by all the knowledge many of you have in here. Here is my dilemna/question. I am going to buy a 4Runner as soon as I sell my Celica and am trying to decide which year/engine I should buy. I had a 95 some years ago and absolutely loved it, and still prefer that body style. However, I am not really a gear head, can do very basic things on my car, but don't really know much about diving into anything with the engine. I have another car that is my daily driver and I am looking to swap from a small car to 4Runner for my extra car.

My uses for the truck will be hauling around fishing rods, reels, and coolers on trips to the marina and back. Occasional trips to a hunting farm which might feature light 4X4 activities on days when the fields are a bit soft. And perhaps down the road, towing a 20ft or so center console fishing boat short distances. Obviously, reliability is a huge concern as I want something I can keep the oil fresh in, keep the filters clean, and not worry about.

Whatever I buy will likely have to have some mileage on it because my budget is 3-6k to get started.

Love to hear your thoughts on which direction I should go with my purchase/trade. If you have any other questions about my usage or that might shape your opinion on which vehicle is good for me, then just ask.

Thanks for all the help.

 

you can answer your own questions if you search around. there is plenty of threads about which engine is better.(honestly there is no answer)

 

Well, obviously, I will be the one to answer my own questions in the end. Just hoping for some thoughts from those of you who currently own one of these two generations of runners to speak as to your educated thoughts. I can do the research, and am, but there is something to be said for stories of "I own this and if I had it to do over again I would......" Just looking for other opinions while I do some research.

 

I personally like the 3rd 96+...and they are really cheap now a days.Going from a 3.0 to 3.4 is like night and day.

 

1+ on this.

The 3rd Gens are only slightly more "refined" than the 2nd Gens, but IMHO where you'd have the advantage is in the reliability that comes with a later model auto. I've had both the 3.0 and the 3.4, and like ltd said, there's no comparison in performance. I've heard the reliability of the 3.4 is better too, but I've had good luck with both engines.

With your budget I think you'd be looking at a 96-99ish 3rd Gen. Nothing wrong with that. Good luck.

 

Get 97+ 3rd Gen. Some 96's had issues with the HG. Look for one with a rear locker, and you're golden. I'd also get the 3.4L v6 vs the 2.7L I4, but that's just me. Both are great engines.

 

x2. I love the 2nd gen but that 3.4 is a little more powerful and efficent.

 

how about the 99 highlander edition with the tall coils and rear locker?

 

Honestly, the taller coils is just waaaaaay hyped. Yes, stock, it is better with the extra clearance. But, looking at a 10 year old vehicle now makes it a moot point, since all the springs sag. A simple OME lift will make the playing field level.

The rear locker is a plus, though, but all 96-00 4Runners can have it.

Also, where are you located. There is one in my area, and it is very very tastefully modded. It's a little bit out of your price range, but it is an awesome rig and you won't have to do a thing to it. I'm sure you can negotiate, too.

http://saltlakecity.craigslist.org/cto/981380222.html

 

First gens are cool, old and solid axle.

Stock second gens flex better that 3rd gens with a small lift. The 3.slow is just that, slow. I have heard that they can have HG problems.

Third gens (which is what I have) have good power, reliable, nice. Parts, like offroad bumpers, can be hard to find. Alot of lift choices for them.

Fourth gens can have a V8, are big, heavy and low. Also out of your price range.

 

I have driven a friends 92 4Runner for years and I have a 2000 4runner Limited. The 4 wheel drive system in the 3rd limiteds are worth the price difference. Clicking the AWD button going 60 mph on a wet/snowing road is tough to beat.

 

My ideal rig would be a 1st gen Runner, SA of course, with a 3.4 drivetrain. Done. I love the 3.4.

 

This 4WD system became available on the SR5 as well as the Limited in 2001.

 

I got an 88 for the removable top. Can't beat that. But I wish that I would have gotten a manual trans with my 3.0 V6. It is IFS, but it does what I want. I am not a rock crawler, but a dirt road and trail browser (fishing).

Fortunately a reliable 230,XXX miles so far.
Seems to be alot of aftermarket support for this model, still.

Good Luck in your search.

 

Love the power on my '96, but I miss the tailgate on my '92.

 

absolutly NOTHING like an original " proto type " find a Trekker .

 

cack that is a nice ride in Salt Lake

I have had a 95 -2nd gen and this 99 a 3rd gen. The creature comforts spoil ya on the 3rd gens. The 3.4V6 is a delight after coming out of the 22Re 4 cylinder. Leather seats-I did not think I could ever afford a truck with them-dang they feel nice with the lumbar support and I am only an SR5-yes I do think you could get leather on a 2nd gen.

I would not even consider a 3.slow now after reading all about the head gasket issues. If you were to buy one make sure it was recently rebuilt by a reputable shop and with a ginormous long guarantee that is transferable to you.

Miss that tailgate on the 2nd gen-more like a truck than a soccer mom's SUV. In general I feel the 2nd gen was better built with less trouble issues. Not scientific judgement-just my opinion.

3rd gen known issues include: Rear axle seals/steering rack/fuel gauge(inconvenience only not a real problem once you know about it)/probably forgetting something else.

It seems to me you want a fine on road vehicle that can off road. I would steer you to a 3rd gen and 99 up for best features and interior. Don't let high miles worry you as long as the maintenance records are available to look over.

Having said that I must see my own (99) truck 8 times a day, and 7 are soccer moms. You want exclusive and unique- stick to a first or 2nd gen. For best off road capability the 85 is the most coveted with fuel injected 22R and Solid Axle suspension up front.

Opinions-you heard the phrasing-everyone has one....

I do feel the online support for the 3rd gens is outstanding. Between YOTA TECH and T4R virtually every single topic is covered somewhere and more than once.

And please make it a 5speed.. the jump off the line with the 3.4V6 and the 5speed wow!

and no that is not good for gas mileage... but I only care at $3.50 a gallon and more...

 

1st gen all the way. take the top off, haul your friends around in the sun. rebuilt 22re, straight axle. cant beat it! that 3.4 sounds good.

 

^^^ YOur pic sold me Ron. Nice runner!! ^^^

 

thanks! its a love, hate thing. it's always worth it in the end!


350 small block, pro comp lift, 35in MTR's, rhino lined interior with cage, autometers. next... wiring is a constant cluster needs TLC, knuckle rebuild kit, hysteer.