Quote:
Originally Posted by CentCalKid
Now I am checking the social media scene for the "cool" factor of owning a 2nd Gen 4Runner...there is none...like zero.
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So pretty much, the 2nd Gen 4runners are the TITS!
The only thing really holding them back is the reputation of the 3VZ-E. Well, that is pretty easily figured out with a 3.4 conversion! I will argue that the 2nd gen can actually be a better platform to build off than the 3rd gens because of its slightly smaller, more compact architecture and overall lighter mass. It also has a better breakover angle than the 3rd gens, and as somebody else mentioned on here, the Hilux Surf trucks are legendary across the rest of the world. I've seen them in crazy places all over Europe! In terms of its comparison to the 1st gens... Well, you can't argue that the earlier trucks are incredible and extremely bad ass, but they're also colder to sleep in, louder on the road, and overall a less refined driving experience. I find that the 2nd gen is that "perfect" combination of old school Toyota experience and core offroad capabilities, but also a super fun and playful overall driving experience on road as well.
Here are some pictures of my "un-steezy", "not that badass" black 2nd gen 4Runner that does 0-60mph in less than 6 seconds, thanks to its JDM imported 3.4 5VZ-FE, TRD Supercharger and URD 7th injector. This truck also has a custom gear-driven transfer case from a 1986 pickup with twin sticks, A340f automatic transmission from a 2002 (3rd gen) 4Runner, Budbuilt skids, ARB air lockers + ARB high capacity compressor, custom exhaust, and many more mods in the works. I can thank the guys at TorFab in Everett Wa. for finally helping me get all the details figured out. Those guys are amazing.
Have I mentioned that this truck is fast as HELL?!
And holy crap... its crazy capable offroad! Lockers are amazing...
My point with this post is that I see a lot of bashing on the 2nd gens primarily because of the 3.0, but its my belief that on a fundamental level these trucks are an incredible platform. Even to build a sweet 3rd gen, while its true that the 3.4 is way better, its not that hard to throw one in a 2nd gen. Also, in terms of offroad features, all you really have to start with is an E-locker (maybe) and the variable locking transfer case (maybe). So again, any of the 4Runner gens can be bad ass. And as I already mentioned, the 2nd gen has slightly better architecture for offroad performance than the 3rd gens, stronger stock steering, and in my opinion, carries a far more rugged look, to name a few.
Anyway, happy 4Runnering everybody!!