1st 4runner V6 or V8?

[juneau92]

My choice was simple: I wouldn't have purchased my 4Runner if it weren't available with the power of the V8. That's because I tow this 27ft trailer:

The V6 just wouldn't be up to pulling this beast. Still, the V6 is a great engine (heck, it's a Toyota, isn't it?) if you're not into towing or having the smoother power of the V8.

 

[Northof49]

I don't know much about trailers these days, but that is a nice looking unit

 

[juneau92]

I don't know much about trailers these days, but that is a nice looking unit

Thanks! The V8 4Runner pulls this travel trailer quite well, I couldn't be more pleased. This past weekend, I pulled it up a 12 mile grade of 6%, outside temp was 106 degrees here in Arizona. It pulled it no problem. The low end torque (3400rpm) of the V8 is excellent for a vehicle of this size.

Some folks at the campgrounds have been a bit surprised to see my 4Runner pulling something like this. Toyota rocks.

 

[twitchee2]

Thanks! The V8 4Runner pulls this travel trailer quite well, I couldn't be more pleased. This past weekend, I pulled it up a 12 mile grade of 6%, outside temp was 106 degrees here in Arizona. It pulled it no problem. The low end torque (3400rpm) of the V8 is excellent for a vehicle of this size.

Some folks at the campgrounds have been a bit surprised to see my 4Runner pulling something like this. Toyota rocks.

Agreed with the pulling power, i just made a 150mile round trip to lake pyramid, pulled the fully loaded waverunner trailer up and down the grapevine no prob i was passing people left and right 65-70mph @3000rpm was the sweet spot for me.

 

[spud72]

My choice was simple: I wouldn't have purchased my 4Runner if it weren't available with the power of the V8. That's because I tow this 27ft trailer:

What are you running for a hitch on that? A 27' on the wheelbase of the Runner surprises me.

 

[juneau92]

What are you running for a hitch on that? A 27' on the wheelbase of the Runner surprises me.

See signature: Hensley Arrow (click to see a photo). Won't tow without it.

You're right, though, spud72, the 4Runner has a relatively short wheelbase of 110 inches (I believe) for towing a longer travel trailer. The important thing is to have your weights in check, and a good choice of hitch. The Hensley Arrow hitch absolutely eliminates any chance of sway, making this setup not only more than possible, but a pleasure. Take care.

 

[bonds44]

the v8 does not require premium fuel but i would go with the v8 it quicker response time and little more torque and u can tow heaver load

 

[lawwailok]

yea, agree with Buckfever:

The V8 is the bomb. My advise is that if you really need to go with the V6, don't test drive the V8.

my dad has a '06 V6 tundra at home and i have a V8 4R(see my sig), i mean before having the V8, the V6 is great, powerful and very strong. BUT after bought the V8, it is a different world. i mean the V6 is still powerful, but if you are trying to speed up a bit on freeway, or if you want more boost at low rpm range, the V8 is the best to go. The V6 will still give you the speed but you can hear the motor starts growling and trying hard vs the V8 is just sounds very clam and no need to push it to archive that "boost" and speed. not to mention if the truck has heavy load and/or towing, difference will be more significant.

 

[JungleJim]

After reading more about how the full time 4wd works on the v8 here on the site, I think I am leaning towards a V8. Now I just need to find one for the right price.

You can just put the V6 into 4WD and leave it there. Will operate just like the V8 (but you will have the option of going back to 2WD if you desire).

I guess I should have mentioned I am looking to buy a used 4runner. Therefore the price difference in the V8 will not be a factor.

As you've found, the V8 does not bring much of a premium price in the used market. And down the road if gasoline prices continue to rise, selling a V8 might become difficult. Just something to keep in mind, unless you're going to keep it forever.

 

[Avet14]

I myself prefer the V6 ( recently leased an 07 SR5 V6 4WD ) because I guess I enjoy seeing what a motor really can do? I dunno.

I come from eastern europe where 2liter 4cylinders are used to tow anything and everything, so in my eyes a 4liter V6 should be able to do everything. Obviously the V8 would be even better but I like working the motor.

I have a question of my own though. The 6 and 8 both share the same transmission right? So is there any damage that can be caused to the drivetrain of the 6 if towing something too heavy?

 

[kingbiscuit]

I don't know if the newer V6's have a 5speed automatic, but I have a 98 and right around 45 it isn't geared very well. I drove my roommates V8
It was quite nice. But his is a 2007, so it is a different generation. The V6s might have better gearing now. Jesus just go test drive one.

 

[Koz]

I myself prefer the V6 ( recently leased an 07 SR5 V6 4WD ) because I guess I enjoy seeing what a motor really can do? I dunno.

I come from eastern europe where 2liter 4cylinders are used to tow anything and everything, so in my eyes a 4liter V6 should be able to do everything. Obviously the V8 would be even better but I like working the motor.

I have a question of my own though. The 6 and 8 both share the same transmission right? So is there any damage that can be caused to the drivetrain of the 6 if towing something too heavy?

The short answer is yes. If you tow over 5K lbs. the load will generate more heat then it can dissipate. The biggest problem you will encounter will be in controlling the extra weight. The real danger would accrue when you have to perform an emergency maneuver. The rule of thumb is don't exceed 80% of what the vehicle is rated for (without a sway sys).

You could easily add a trans cooler and upgrade the hitch and a V6 could pull 6700lbs. Anytime you plan on pulling the max rated weight you should add some type of sway system. The Hensley system makes the difference of night and day.

Koz

 

[Light_Mania]

The V6 offers plenty of power at my altitude. My V6 4runner will accelerate faster than my 1974 Porsche 914, which was considered reasonably peppy in its day.

Sure the V8 will give you more, it just depends on your "needs".