3rd gen T4R versus 2002 Tacoma

[FlatlanderIA]

Hey All,

Been admiring this site for awhile and needed your expert advise. I'm weighing the pros and cons of a 2002 Tacoma and a 2002 T4R. A family member does have a 2002 T4R and I love driving it. But, I've always wanted a Tacoma as well.

My needs would involved some off-road, which I know both can handle. I am an avid backcountry skier/climber and do get off the pavement. The Tacoma would have to be a 4 door for children so that starts to cut down on my bed size. I do have a large dog, and do occasionally need to haul things since I just purchased my first home.

Does anyone have any suggestions on the pros and cons of these two vehicles and how they might compare on:

-ride comfort
-off road capability
-towing
-hauling materials
-relative used price
etc

Cheers!!

Tim

 

[Clemsonfan15]

If both vehicles had the same miles, year, condition, etc... I think the Tacoma would cost more.

If a Tacoma is what you really want just get it. You will be happy with it.

 

[Thai]

Does anyone have any suggestions on the pros and cons of these two vehicles and how they might compare on:

-ride comfort
-off road capability
-towing
-hauling materials
-relative used price
etc

Cheers!!

Tim

2002 4runners are safer for you and your family. 4runners have VSC (stability control) along with 4-wheel traction control. Neither of these are available on an '02 Tacoma. The frame on the 4runner is significantly stronger. Ride comfort will favor 4runner for sure. The 4runner is also better off-road due to 4-wheel traction control and better angles (esp. breakover angle). You have to get a Tacoma with the rear locker to hang with the 4runner to match it's off-road ability.

However, nothing beats a truck for hauling though...so, you will have to see what is your priorities.

 

[FlatlanderIA]

Thanks you guys, Thai, I didn't really think of it in terms of absolute saftey... but it makes sense. Also probably better having more weight over the rear wheel in the T4R w/o the burden of sandbags, etc. Althought the 4dr does have more weight near the back than the reg/ext cabs... Thanks...

 

[Clemsonfan15]

If you needed to haul stuff that wouldn't fit in the 4runner you could just buy a trailer.

4runner + trailer would probably still be less than a double cab Tacoma.