'01 or '02 SR5 vs Limited (differences?)

[Clifford]

Hey folks- got my loan approved and am looking hard for an 01 or 02 but not really clear on what the Limited has that SR5 does not in terms of mechanical/performance (ie larger brake rotors, traction controls, etc.)

I am not as interested in cosmetics and such- I seem to be able to find that info more readily (heated seats, etc)- I plan to do a lot of moderate off roading- mainly to go sandy places camping and not get stuck as opposed to trying to climb up boulders and such- though I am certain I will be tempted by some trail somewhere to test the limits- and not afraid to get that first big dent :jump:

There is a low mileage SR5 I am looking at but want to be clear on what the Limited would offer that an SR5 would not.

Also if there are any major differences between '01 and '02 that would be helpful.

I found this site through a post here but it is a bit dense and maybe someone here could provide the key points. (http://www.top4runners.com/runhist/runhist32002.html)

Thanks a bunch- been dreaming of getting one of these for years- thanks for your help!

Clifford

 

[GatorGreg]

I don't think there's really any difference btwn the '01 SR5 and '02 Ltd when it comes to the 4WD capabilities - you're pretty much just talking nice luxury features as the difference. Starting in '01 all 4WD models got the so-called multimode 4WD system which previously had only been available on the Limited trim level (starting in '99 I think). Basically it lets you run in 4WD on dry pavement - you could leave it on and forget about it. On my old '00 SR5 you were generally only supposed to stick it in 4WD in low traction situations. The other nice thing about the '01s is it got a lot of safety improvements like VSC.

That said, after reading your intended usage if it were me I'd look for a good condition '99 or '00 with the optional rear locker ('00 was the last year you could get a factory rear locker on a T4R until the recently released '09 Trail Edition). '99 and '00 are generally regarded as the peak years for stock 3rd gen off-road prowess.

 

[JohnsD90]

SR5 is better in your case because it comes in 5speed, the limited model is limited to auto.
just my $.02

 

[Dark Runner]

SR5 is better in your case because it comes in 5speed, the limited model is limited to auto.
just my $.02

Toyota ended the 5spd in the 4runners in 2000.
I've never payed much attention to the 01/02 runners but I have just recently discovered that all limited models of 4runner come with a 4:30 rear diff but only a select few SR5's come with the 4:30 the rest are 4:10. I know for a fact it was like that for 96-00 4runners but Im not sure if the same is true for the 01-02's. Yota changed the 4runner quite a bit in 01.

 

[Clifford]

Wow you guys are great- so much info in such a short time! Thanks to all!

Well, first off this will also be my daily driver here in Los Angeles so I know I want an automatic. No need for a 5 speed here as JohnsD90 suggested though I do love stick and drove one for many years. I'm not sure it would serve me that much more off road but then again I'm a novice and might not know better.

As for the gear ratio and "rear locker"- any clarification would be helpful. Would the 4:30 be better off road but higher rpm on freeway or the 4:10? I'll look into it on my own in the meantime. What is the rear locker mentioned on the '99 or '00 and what is the advantage?

 

[longhaul747]

This is just food for thought for you!!

I think it was either 99 or 00 Limited models you could get both a rear locker and a center diff lock on the 4Runner. This is by far the most versatile 4wd system available on the 4Runner. In slippery conditions and likely most snow covered roads you could leave it in 4wd with the center diff lock open. Basically an AWD sort of system with all diffs open and no binding to worry about. When things get a bit more iffy you could lock the center differential. When things get really brutal you could then lock the rear diff.

I believe only one year and perhaps one option package was available this way but pretty cool none the less. One of the experts on the board here can clarify the year and model.

Now what would really be cool is the above options in addition to a user defeatable TRAC and VSC. So you could go all ways. I don't believe such a 4Runner exist though!!

 

[Clifford]

I don't get all the 4wd locking options and how they interact. If you lock the center does that mean each wheel can still spin independently but the 2 main transaxles (front wheels/rear wheels) are locked (no positraction?)
Then if you have a rear locker you can also lock the 2 rear wheels together? Am I even close?

I think I am going for an '01 or an '02 - still trying to see what is mechanically diff on Limited vs Sport (love the scoop on Sport hood)

Thanks again-

C

 

[JohnsD90]

You really dont need all of diff lock stuff, cause you sound like your not gonna be wheelin it that hard.

 

[Clifford]

Ya I mean I will be in the desert a lot and I have seen some hairy passes but I won't be going and looking for hard shit to climb. I think the standard 01 or 02 4wd should suffice. One thing that does interest me is how folks are disabling the anti skid and such. Anyway- just spoke to a guy with an '01 Sr5 Sport with 66K- not a Limited but love the low mileage!
Cheers- C

 

[SilverBullet01]

if you get a runner with at least center diff lock it will make your days in the sand much easier. as for the sr5, to limited, your mainly looking at automatic everything, leather seats, and sometimes the digital climate control display that looks fancy but is unnecessary. if you like the look of the sport models with the hood scoop and such, go for it, but realize that the scoop does not serve any performance functions, but is much harder to attain after you purchase a runner without one. also consider that the sport edition will run you a higher price tag.

as for disabling traction control systems, you cant do so in the vehicles until the center diff lock has been engaged. you drive with them on 100% of the time otherwise

as for features in an sr5 model, look to see whats automatic, i.e. windows, if there is a sun roof, rear seat heating and air, and all that fun stuff.

otherwise go nuts and GL on finding your new baby

 

[Clifford]

Howdy- thanks for the input- why would the Sport cost more than the Limited? Also- if anyone knows where I can find interior pics of Sport vs Limited in '01 or '02 I would appreciate it.
Also- anyone familiar with diff between '01 and '02? This site does not really make it clear to me- http://www.top4runners.com/runhist/runhist32002.html

Thanks!

C

 

[Stick Figure]

2001 Toyota 4Runner: 4Runner lost its base 4-cylinder models and manual transmission for 2001, but all models now had full-time 4-wheel-drive and an antiskid/traction-control system. All models also got a revised grille and taillamps, and the Limited added standard heated front seats, Homelink remote door opener, and an optional in-dash CD changer.


2002 Toyota 4Runner: For '02, 4Runner got a new Chrome Package with bright exterior trim. Also new were standard instead of optional air conditioning, remote keyless entry, and alloy wheels for SR5s. 4Runner was redesigned for '03.


only other thing that comes to mind is the front "skid plate" was only on the 02 from the factory.

 

[SilverBullet01]

the sport is just a "special edition" with the hood scoop, sometimes the tacoma style skid plate, color matched grill, fender flairs, and trim, and sport badging

 

[Clifford]

I missed out on the perfect '01 sport- only had 66K- oh well- the search continues- if anyone finds one near the west coast let me know!
:yummie:
C

 

[J.A.]

Toyota ended the 5spd in the 4runners in 2000.
I've never payed much attention to the 01/02 runners but I have just recently discovered that all limited models of 4runner come with a 4:30 rear diff but only a select few SR5's come with the 4:30 the rest are 4:10. I know for a fact it was like that for 96-00 4runners but Im not sure if the same is true for the 01-02's. Yota changed the 4runner quite a bit in 01.

That is incorrect, only the v6 automatic rear e-locker equipped 4R's and v6 manual equipped w/ 16" wheels came with 4.30's not all Limiteds.

 

[J.A.]

Howdy- thanks for the input- why would the Sport cost more than the Limited? Also- if anyone knows where I can find interior pics of Sport vs Limited in '01 or '02 I would appreciate it.
Also- anyone familiar with diff between '01 and '02? This site does not really make it clear to me- http://www.top4runners.com/runhist/runhist32002.html

Thanks!

C

There were no significant changes to the 2002 model. The changes are all numbered and listed at the top of the page. To summarize...

1a. all 4Runner SR5 models now have standard 15-inch aluminum alloy wheels with P225/70R15 tires.

1b. A new Chrome Package is available on the SR5 grade

1c. Tube steps are available as an accessory.

2. The DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) P1782 and P1783 for detecting 4WD transfer position have been added.

3. On the Canada model, the specification of the electrical remote control type mirrors has been changed from previous optional equipment to standard.

 

[PossumJenkins]

Only the SR5 model was cancelled with the 5sp. I have a 2000 base with a 5speed and 4:10 gears ordered special from the factory...not sure how the original owner got it this way because I have never been able to find another like it.