'03 or '05

[GUNSLINGER]

Hi, this is my first post, and i have decided to get a 4runner...would i be better off getting an'05 or an '03. Thanks

 

[lawwailok]

03-05 are identical same vehicle, it makes no difference except the age and the mileage. but if you compare 05 and 06, then def 06 since it has some minor upgrades through the exterior and interior. ie: new style headlight assembly, led tail light, memory seat (on limited model), 18 in wheel vs 17 in wheel (limited model)

 

[SciRunner]

Did VVT-i and 5-speed auto show up across the engine range starting with the 2005 model year 4Runners?

 

[lawwailok]

Did VVT-i and 5-speed auto show up across the engine range starting with the 2005 model year 4Runners?

oh yea, i am not too sure but heard about 05 and up V8 were added the VVT-i technology. not sure bout the tranny.

 

[tkr128]

2003-2004 V8's - non-VVTi 5-speed trans.
2005+ V8's - VVT-i 5 speed trans.
2003-2004 V6's - VVT-i 4-speed trans.
2005+ V6's - VVT-i 5-speed trans.

 

[Uneek]

2003-2004 V8's - non-VVTi 5-speed trans.
2005+ V8's - VVT-i 5 speed trans.
2003-2004 V6's - VVT-i 4-speed trans.
2005+ V6's - VVT-i 5-speed trans.

Bingo, 2005 was the year for powertrain upgrades for the 4th gen.

Also, early 2003 SR5 and Sport Editions had gray body cladding. 2003 SR5s had telescopic steering wheel, which 2004+ SR5s doesn't. 2003 and some 2004 factory nav equipped have the 10-speaker JBL system, but no backup camera.

 

[97hb]

I like my 03' No problems so far and put about 45k on it.

 

[BRX0102]

I like my 03' No problems so far and put about 45k on it.

"I like my 03' No problems so far and" it has about 81K on it.

 

[TitaniumToy]

"I like my 03' No problems so far and" it has about 81K on it.

I like my 03' No problems so far and it has about 85K on it.

 

[mjbuzby]

i love my 03 with 120,000 on it runs just like day one, the other day i looked into getting a new one, no difference except vvti.

 

[03 Limited]

My family's friend has a 2003 Sport w/ V8 and he has 216K miles last time i see it and still runs perfectly, he did replace the 02 sensors a couple times but with that kinda of milage i woulnd blame it.

 

[p nut]

You'll be fine with either, but I always say, buy the newest vehicle w/ lowest miles that you can afford. If you can afford the 05, go for it.