3rd Gen 4Runner or '02-'04 Xterra?

[MotoXRacer1551]

I'm stuck between the Xterra and the 4 runner. Its going to be a DD. It will have a lift without a doubt and bigger tires. The xterra seems like it would be underpowered, but i do like the way they look better than most of the 4 runners from that generation. So overall what is a better choice?

So offroad:
Xterra or 4 Runner?

Onroad:
Xterra or 4 Runner?

Realiability:
Xterra or 4 Runner?

Power:
Xterra or 4 Runner?

If you have experience in both cars that would be great. The Locking Rear diff option is pretty cool as well as the power rear window. I do a lot of night offroading. Discuss
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[tigertown88]

3rd gen wins all categories compared to 02-04 xterra. The 05+ xterra has alot more power , but i would say not a good off road vehicle. However , everyone here is going to say 4runner lol. I have heard of transmission problems in the xterra. My 99 4runner has 190k on it without a problem.

 

[KellyJ]

Offroad: 4Runner. Great capability stock, and a lift/aggressive tires/rear locker option make them almost unstoppable

Onroad: XTerra. Less of a truck-like ride, but is not what most people are looking for when itcomes to capability off road.

Reliability: 4Runner. Toyotas, with proper basic maintenance and upkeep, have a strong tendency to last over 200,000 miles and even more. Can't think of many people with over 200k on their xTerra (and I know at least 4 people with them)

Power: Tough call. The N/A XTerra V6's were on the wimpy side (for a 6 cylinder), producing only 170 HP. Supercharged versions had 210 HP. The V6 option on the 4R (the more powerful of the two 4Runner engine choices) produces 183 hp and 217 lb/ft of torque. Adequate power when stock, but when you add a lift, larger diameter tires, off road armor, etc ... you will notice power loss and will be fiending for a TRD supercharger. 5 speeds (available from 1996-2000 only) have a bit more pep due to gearing.

 

[jsmithjr732]

I was in your spot a week ago, except I was looking at 3rd gen T4Rs vs 2005 Xterra. The 04 and earlier weren't an option for me due to the engine choices.

A buddy of mine at work has an 05 Xterra, so I traded him my 05 E55 for a night (he was thrilled, LOL). The ride reminded me of my old 03 Tacoma TRD, but it felt a bit loose. Also, the tranny felt pretty used-up: the throws were clunky and not precise. The X had 68K miles on it.

In the end, I came back to Toyota and got a 2000 T4R. The 3.4L engine is great (phenomenal) and the exterior / interior just looks better stock or modified IMO. Reliability is no question as long as you take care of it. I honestly couldn't say the same for the Xterra.

I have two other friends with X's, and they LOVE them. That said, neither took the opportunity to drive a 4Runner. To be sure you get the ride YOU want, do a few back-to-back drives in each.

 

[brian2sun]

You forgot the 5th category: Ugly, in which the Xterra wins hands down. And if you happen to get one of the 100 million yellow ones out there, you be even a little bit more ugly.

 

[rdgt4r]

God just the sound of the starters in the 1st and 2nd gen Xterras make my want to gouge my eyes out. They are alright I only have one friend whos can keep up with the capability of my 4runner. That is if there isnt a malfunction. I do like the looks of the 2nd and 3rd gen Xterras i must admit. Plus more room IMO. But you did ask on a 4runner forum for which is better haha

Plus they are like driving a loaded cement truck, the frame is very rigid and they have leaf springs in the rear while we have a nice and flexy 4 link coils.

 

[nighthawk]

For me, if it's between a 3rd gen 4Runner or Xterra, I would pick 3rd gen 4Runner. If it was 4th or 5th gen 4Runner vs Xterra, then I would pick a new Xterra just because the Xterra is available in manual still, but I would take a manual 3rd gen 4Runner over any Xterra.

 

[bama16]

i had an 04 xterra that i loved...it had a PML and 32x11.5 bfg AT....it was a great car, 5spd that never gave me any issues...and had 185hp and 210lbft torque...similar to the 4runner....but i never took it off road after moving to denver a few years back, so i picked up an 08 legacy gt (had to have atleast awd) i wouldn't hesitate picking up another. had an itch for another suv so i just picked up a 97 4runner....always like this body style.

 

[redbeard]

It's going to be your ride in the end, drive them both for yourself. Post this same question over on an Xterra Forum (if you haven't already), post us a link, I'd be curious to see what is said from that perspective. From my experience the 4Runner would win in every category you listed. That's why I have one, that's why I'm here! :biggrin2::biggrin2: I sold Nissan's, back when the first gen Xterra came out, so I was around the 1st gens (200-2004) a lot and drove them a lot, on, off road etc. Nissan didn't want us to compare it to the 4Runner, back then but the RAV4???? Anyway...

-Unless you get one with a SC, they are a dog compared to the 4runner. The specs may look similar, though the 4Runner has a MUCH better engine/tranny combo in either auto or manual than the 1st gen X.

-The 3.3 in the 1st gen X's is SOHC 12v and does not rev well, or have a good powerband compared to the 3.4 DOHC 24v in the 4Runner. I've only driven the 2nd gen X (2005 +) 1 time and that engine is a totally different animal then the 1st gen, though will cost you more. I would even rather have a 4runner with the 2.7 4banger, than the 3.3 that is in the 1st gen X, it's just a dog to me.

I'll spare you from my ramblings about the other categories, because I don't think I'll add much else that hasn't already been said, and I'm hungry and going to get some food. Happy Hunting!!

 

[FoneRunner]

What I liked about the Xterra was the integrated first aid kit...for when you're done banging your head on a rock for buying an Xterra:redbrick:

 

[techno]

Not sure why some people think the 4Runner is far superior offroad. I've been wheeling in both plenty of times and the Xterra is excellent. It's shorter than the 4Runner and has a better departure angle. As long as you take off the lousy tubular side steps it will keep up with a 4Runner easily. I chose the 4Runner because I prefer the coils to leafs in the rear suspension and also like the Toyota V6 better.

There are loads of aftermarket accessories for both too.

Can you spot my stock 4Runner??

 

[p nut]

The X is very capable off road. But stock vs stock, I'll take the rig with a locker.

On road, 4Runner wins as well. Leafs vs coils.

The only category the X wins in is price. But that's to be expected, as it is more utilitarian than the 4Runner. Also, the resale value is lower, so pretty much negates the higher price paid up front.

I like the 2nd gens and have considered it (off road). But test driving and getting back into a Toyota, there is definitely a difference in quality and workmanship.

 

[Martinjmpr]

Well, obviously this is a Toyota board so you're going to get Toyota bias here. Having said that, I cross shopped the 4runner and the Xterra and ultimately chose the 4runner.

If you can get a 99 or 2000 4runner, the stock suspension is higher than the Xterra and off road capability is excellent. I often get asked what kind of lift I have on my 99 4runner (I don't have a lift, it has the stock suspension with a slightly larger than stock tire - 265/75/16 vs the stock 265/70/16.) Removing the running boards also gives it the appearance of a lift.

From an off-road standpoint, the ability to get a factory E-locker makes the 4runner the better vehicle, hands down. AFAIK even the Xterra didn't get this option until 2008 or 2009. And of course the 2nd gen Xterra has the annoying pushbutton transfer case, vs. the 3rd gen 4runners' reliable lever.

Also, IMO Toyotas just give you more "bang for the buck." Lots of little things on the Toyota are quite nice - things you wouldn't neccessarily miss if your vehicle didn't have them, but which you come to really like. I'm talking about things like:

* Auto-up and auto-down front windows (both driver and passenger)
* 3 12v power outlets on the dashboard and 1 in the cargo area (99+ only)
* Nice little storage compartment in the right rear cargo area for tools, fire extinguisher, warning triangles, etc.
* Roll-down rear window (very nice when you're carrying fishing rods, surfboards, etc, as well as for ventilation)
* Heated power mirrors that fold flat against the door when driving on narrow trails or parking in small parking spaces
* Split folding rear seats (not sure if the X has this) with storage slots for the headrests (99+ again) which makes for a very versatile cargo area.
* Headlights automatically turn off if you accidentally leave them on (keeps you from wearing down your battery.)
* Separate rear seat heater with separate controls for the rear passengers (not sure when this was added but my 99 SR5 has them)
* Rear window defroster is not only on the back window, it's also on the rear side windows.
* Easy to remove luggage rack crossbars for a better appearance/MPG.
* On 99-2000 Limiteds and on all 2001 - 2002 4runners, you get the multi-mode T-case, which is great for driving on icy or intermittently slippery roads.
* More sophisticated rear suspension (4 link with coils vs leaf springs.) Smoother ride and better articulation.
* ECT on auto tranny has power/economy mode (not sure if the X has this but I don't think so.)

Given all of the above, and the fact that they are comparably priced on the used market, I'd say the 4runner wins that contest, but then again I'm obviously biased, so take that for what it's worth. :shrug:

 

[Clemsonfan15]

I don't really like the look of the Xterra. My cousin has one and it doesn't seem to lack power. I didn't notice much of an increase in ride quality over my '98 and mine has a lot more miles than the Xterra.

I'd definitely go with the 4runner, but you'd probably be happy with either.

 

[p nut]

AFAIK even the Xterra didn't get this option until 2008 or 2009.

Just FYI, the Off Road trim was available since 2005 (first year of the 2nd Gens), which included the rear locker, and in manual (6-sp).

 

[Justin727]

I've been working @ a Nissan Dealer for sometime now. Personally I wouldnt get an Xterra. I'd create a reason's why not but there's a reason why I went for my 4runner and not the xterra

 

[wareagle98]

I have a 1998 4runner that I have owned for about 2 years. Bought with 140K on the odo., now has 176K. My wife drives a 2004 Xterra that we bought new and now has 46K on it. All things considered, I like my 4runner better, despite the mileage. To me, the 4runner just drives better. Engine power is comparable, though the runner has a slight edge. My 4runner just drives tighter despite the age and mileage difference. We have not had any repairs on the Xterra besides front brakes at about 40k. My 4runner has been relatively trouble free as well; I have had to replace the rear axle seal once. My 9 year old daughter and I traveled out west for a month this summer (I'm a teacher), a total of 5K miles of driving as far away as Colorado from Alabama. Guess which vehicle we took? The 4runner, of course. I have complete faith in it despite it's age and mileage. The fit and finish is much better on the 4runner as well. The Xterra has lots of wind noise at highway speeds, while the runner is quiet. Lots of plastic in the Xterra, too. Don't get me wrong, the Xterra has been a reliable car, but I much prefer the 4runner. It is my daily driver, commuting 60 miles round trip without problems. Keep in mind too that the Xterra was $20K new in 2004, while the 4runner was about $38K new in 1998. It shows, too. Good luck with your decision.

 

[trd_4runnin]

Well, obviously this is a Toyota board so you're going to get Toyota bias here. Having said that, I cross shopped the 4runner and the Xterra and ultimately chose the 4runner.

If you can get a 99 or 2000 4runner, the stock suspension is higher than the Xterra and off road capability is excellent. I often get asked what kind of lift I have on my 99 4runner (I don't have a lift, it has the stock suspension with a slightly larger than stock tire - 265/75/16 vs the stock 265/70/16.) Removing the running boards also gives it the appearance of a lift.

From an off-road standpoint, the ability to get a factory E-locker makes the 4runner the better vehicle, hands down. AFAIK even the Xterra didn't get this option until 2008 or 2009. And of course the 2nd gen Xterra has the annoying pushbutton transfer case, vs. the 3rd gen 4runners' reliable lever.

Also, IMO Toyotas just give you more "bang for the buck." Lots of little things on the Toyota are quite nice - things you wouldn't neccessarily miss if your vehicle didn't have them, but which you come to really like. I'm talking about things like:

* Auto-up and auto-down front windows (both driver and passenger)
* 3 12v power outlets on the dashboard and 1 in the cargo area (99+ only)
* Nice little storage compartment in the right rear cargo area for tools, fire extinguisher, warning triangles, etc.
* Roll-down rear window (very nice when you're carrying fishing rods, surfboards, etc, as well as for ventilation)
* Heated power mirrors that fold flat against the door when driving on narrow trails or parking in small parking spaces
* Split folding rear seats (not sure if the X has this) with storage slots for the headrests (99+ again) which makes for a very versatile cargo area.
* Headlights automatically turn off if you accidentally leave them on (keeps you from wearing down your battery.)
* Separate rear seat heater with separate controls for the rear passengers (not sure when this was added but my 99 SR5 has them)
* Rear window defroster is not only on the back window, it's also on the rear side windows.
* Easy to remove luggage rack crossbars for a better appearance/MPG.
* On 99-2000 Limiteds and on all 2001 - 2002 4runners, you get the multi-mode T-case, which is great for driving on icy or intermittently slippery roads.
* More sophisticated rear suspension (4 link with coils vs leaf springs.) Smoother ride and better articulation.
* ECT on auto tranny has power/economy mode (not sure if the X has this but I don't think so.)

Given all of the above, and the fact that they are comparably priced on the used market, I'd say the 4runner wins that contest, but then again I'm obviously biased, so take that for what it's worth. :shrug:

Just a FYI a lot of the things you named were 99+ only including the auto up/down front windows (my 98 Limited has auto down only on the drivers side, nothing on passenger), heated mirrors, headrest holders, and auto-off headlights.

Still would rather have my 98 than an Xterra although I think those 4spoke wheels are kind of cool looking. Just didn't want the OP to end up with a earlier year than 99 and wonder where some of these things are.

 

[MotoXRacer1551]

Posted this on the Xterra forum too

3rd Gen 4Runner or '02-'04 Xterra? - Nissan Xterra Forum: Xterra Forums

 

[rdgt4r]

If you get an Xterra i would try to go post '05. They both have their ups and downs, kind of like a ford and chevy guy. I prefer the rear coil setup for off roading because more flex is had (my friend tested it his X against mine) The 6 speed auto is very good in the '05 X's, i though i read about tensioner problems on the X's post 05 I personally know of one case. They are set up totally different, drive both of them and choose what you like.


I was more flexible here, his rear driver tire was off the ground, while I was firmly planted. He had the bigger suspension too. He was at 3" and I was at 2". he did have me beat with the off road edition w/locker which is always nice.

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He used to brag until this : )

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