Just wanted to get some opinions from some people, last year i totaled my 97 sr5 5 speed, i ended up making a quick purchase of a 2000 sr5sport cause i got it for a steal.

its not in the best shape but it runs good and has a great service history, Lately ive been lurking on the 4thgens cause they seem a little larger inside, and the v8 option is a big plus for me. at the end of the day its just my daily driver and i wanna be comfortable, ive also been looking at used lexus 470's but thats a little steep price range wise for me, but if any owners of both vehicles could give me their opinions why i should buy a 4thgen id appreciate it!

I have been doing the same as you. We have a 1997 t4r with 160k on it and have been thinking about adding a 4gen to the garage. About 4 months ago I found the 470 and really like the looks and the increased head room and other options. We finally found a 2007 on a lot here locally and went to look and drive it. It is very nice, the only things I don't care for are the fixed back glass and the way the back door opens. The other thing is the air ride suspension which is not something I need and is very expensive to replace.
Earlier this week we went to look at some 4tr's to compare the fit and ride. I liked the ride of the t4r better because it does have a 4wd feel and the 470 felt like cushy vehicle as you would expect. We ended up buying an 08 white sport edition V8 with 86k on it for 17,300. It does have some cosmetic issues on the exterior but mechanically and the interior are great. We just got it Wednesday and the exterior issues are going to be fixed next week for about $600. I'm very pleased with every thing about it and it is a very nice improvement over the 3rd gen in every way. I feel it was a great move for us.

I asked a similiar question and it seems most guys went to a 4th gen and never looked back. Going back to 3rd gen?

I have an 01 sr5 that I can't bring myself to sell even after picking up an 07 sr5 last week. I fully intended to sell or trade it in when I started my search for a 4th gen. I love the new one but still find time to take my 01 out to play. It just feels more truck like. I'm sure once I start modding I won't look back. I got what I felt was a great deal on the 07. 83k miles, 3rd row, sunroof, tow package and in great condition. Private sale from a divorcing couple, scored it for 14350.

I had the same questions a few months ago deciding between a 3rd gen vs a 4th gen. I test drove the 3rd gen and 4th gen. For me the deciding factor is to go for a 4th gen for a daily driver vs a 3rd gen for more ground clearance and off road. The big plus on the 4th gen is you can find it with lower mileage and more power. I am happy with my 05 4runner.

We just sold our 96 with 204K miles and picked up an 04 with 100K. We're pretty happy with decision. Really just comes down to what you want.

No....

We now have one 3rd gen and one 4th gen. Doesn't get any better than that.