I owned a 1999 4Runner Highlander for 5 years and just bought a 2004 v6 Sport Addition. First 4000 miles on 99 got 19.2 MPG and same for 2004 was 18.74. Part city, more highway to work. 2004 handles MUCH better and rides a whole lot better too. Big difference between the two and the 2004 interior feels so much bigger. Just came back from Cape Hatteras and had both on the beach down there. The 1999 with 20 lbs tire pressure went fine. The 2004 with 20 pounds went ok too until the brakes started to lock and the motor slowed down due to tire slippage. The minute I locked the center differential all of that went away. DON'T go in deep sand without locking the center differential. My son in law thought I was getting stuck as he was behind me in a 2003 Ford F250 turbo diesel 4X4. I really was impressed with the 2004 4Runner. It rides much smoother in the sand than the 1999, but I can't say it went any better. What a vehicle! I can't believe how many 03's and 04 4Runners I saw on the Outer Banks. My son in law ended up pulling out a stuck Wrangler, a Subaru Outback and a Chebby Blazer. Would I buy another 2004 4Runner? In a heartbeat!