3rd VS 4th Gen

[Inv4drZm]

I like the door panels better. AND the rear window goes down. I like the door panels better too.

I understand you like the door panels better?

:rofl:

My parents have an old Sequoia, I always thought of it as a dinosaur version of my 4th gen, dated and slightly bigger. Always hated the dash and column shifter. But the V8 got me hooked.

 

[spartacus]

Here is the rating from 2018 https://www.autotrader.com/car-news...runner-generations-ranked-bes-281474979855121

 

[T4R2014]

I understand you like the door panels better?

:rofl:

My parents have an old Sequoia, I always thought of it as a dinosaur version of my 4th gen, dated and slightly bigger. Always hated the dash and column shifter. But the V8 got me hooked.

Man, I must be tired from my day. But it's my odd obsession. Couldn't get over it. I just remember getting in and reaching for the window switches and being like... "WTF? It swoops down like that?" Reminded me of a 1993 Camry. Never felt 4Runner-like to me. Probably why they put the windows switches back to an upright position in the 5th gen.

That Sequoia dash is horrendously cheap. That is like GM plastic. At least it holds up well. I drove one the other day. 200k and no rattles. Ditto on the column shifter. Makes me feel like I'm in a 70's action movie.

 

[del mar]

Thanks for clarifying this date for me & other readers.

 

[benjamin247]

I can't decide on a 3rd gen v6 manual or a 4th gen v8 auto. Mainly going for the 3rd gen manual since 1) fun to drive stick, 2) manual avoids the dreaded pink milkshake (http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/82033-3rd-gen-4runner-buyers-guide.html#post706218).

For the 4th gen, is radiator/transmission failure common?

 

[LarsBars]

I can't decide on a 3rd gen v6 manual or a 4th gen v8 auto. Mainly going for the 3rd gen manual since 1) fun to drive stick, 2) manual avoids the dreaded pink milkshake (http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/82033-3rd-gen-4runner-buyers-guide.html#post706218).



For the 4th gen, is radiator/transmission failure common?

I've personally never heard of a 4th gen having the pink milkshake issue.

Having owned both a manual 3rd and a auto 4th, I'd say it comes down to trail time vs highway time. As much fun as the 3rd was on the trails, the 4th is WAY more comfortable, faster and safer on the highway. Fits my needs better so that's what I got.

Definitely miss my 3rd at times, but I think the next time I get a manual yota it will be a diesel 80 series

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[benjamin247]

I've personally never heard of a 4th gen having the pink milkshake issue.

Having owned both a manual 3rd and a auto 4th, I'd say it comes down to trail time vs highway time. As much fun as the 3rd was on the trails, the 4th is WAY more comfortable, faster and safer on the highway. Fits my needs better so that's what I got.

Definitely miss my 3rd at times, but I think the next time I get a manual yota it will be a diesel 80 series

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Good to know. Thanks!

 

[4Haulin]

Some good information in here, that I think is still valid for shoppers like me in 2019!

I am trying to decide between a 3rd and 4th gen to be used to haul supplies for home improvement projects (always been jealous of that roll down rear window), yard debris runs with trailer to the city dump and a winter driver vehicle. This will be a 3rd vehicle for our family of 4 with 2 young kids I will be keeping my sedan as a commuter to work except for on bad winter days. This will also be an alternate vehicle for if my sedan or the wife's CUV is in the shop for repairs (we just got through having a rental for 2 weeks straight).

My main question that has been hard to figure out is comparing specs on Edmunds and 1 other random site the 3rd gen is still listed as having MORE cargo space with seats up or folded in second row. Everyone on here talks about the extra space in the 4th gen but the hard figures state the opposite... I'm more concerned with being able to fit more cargo in it then lots of bodies since the whole family will only be in it at random limited times.

2002 4Runner
max Cargo: 79.8cu.ft.
Cargo all seats in place: 44.6 cu.ft.

2004 4Runner
Max Cargo: 75.1 cu. ft.
Cargo all seats in place: 42.2 cu.ft.

Most of the 4th gens that I can find in my area all have the V8 as well which I dont think I need all that power. Trying to stay under $5k. (Was shopping Tundras previously but they all seem to be over our budge for anything in decent shape)

(I wanted to start a new thread but not enough replies yet)

 

[Keros]

Some good information in here, that I think is still valid for shoppers like me in 2019!

I am trying to decide between a 3rd and 4th gen to be used to haul supplies for home improvement projects (always been jealous of that roll down rear window), yard debris runs with trailer to the city dump and a winter driver vehicle. This will be a 3rd vehicle for our family of 4 with 2 young kids I will be keeping my sedan as a commuter to work except for on bad winter days. This will also be an alternate vehicle for if my sedan or the wife's CUV is in the shop for repairs (we just got through having a rental for 2 weeks straight).

My main question that has been hard to figure out is comparing specs on Edmunds and 1 other random site the 3rd gen is still listed as having MORE cargo space with seats up or folded in second row. Everyone on here talks about the extra space in the 4th gen but the hard figures state the opposite... I'm more concerned with being able to fit more cargo in it then lots of bodies since the whole family will only be in it at random limited times.

2002 4Runner
max Cargo: 79.8cu.ft.
Cargo all seats in place: 44.6 cu.ft.

2004 4Runner
Max Cargo: 75.1 cu. ft.
Cargo all seats in place: 42.2 cu.ft.

Most of the 4th gens that I can find in my area all have the V8 as well which I dont think I need all that power. Trying to stay under $5k. (Was shopping Tundras previously but they all seem to be over our budge for anything in decent shape)

(I wanted to start a new thread but not enough replies yet)

Perhaps the 3rd gen holds more water when filled up... but that'll only matter if you sink it in a lake then have to let it drain out.

Practically speaking, I've helped my friend move with her 3rd gen and my 4th gen. All the big stuff went easily into my 4th gen while many things wouldn't fit at all in the 3rd gen. The mouth of the end-gate is larger on the 4th gen, despite the "specs" saying the chassis may hold more.

The 4th gen roof is around 1" higher from the floor and the length from the front seats to the closed endgate is a smidge longer.

It may not be enough to live off of, mind you, but the 4th gen is much more practical for moving cargo than a 3rd.

There's endless debate about V6 vs V8. Get a V8 if you're a "car guy" 'cuz the sound is great (as long as the headers aren't cracked). Most arguements in favour of the V8 are either 'cuz it's a V8 (YEAH!) or the owner is going to use it to tow regularly (the torque and power band on the V8 is much better for towing). Note that a V6 can tow pretty good too, it's no push over.

Otherwise, just get a 4th gen in good condition, the engine doesn't really matter. Note that early V6's had a 4spd*... I think it was 2003 & 2004... then they got the 5 speed A750 in 2005, same as the V8. All V8's all have 5 speeds.

*Note: the A340F 4 speed is a durable work horse transmission with a long history of stout and reliable service. By no means is it inferior to the 5 speed other than the lack of one extra gear.

 

[Ida4runner]

I've had both and there is no way I'd go back to a 3rd gen after having my V8 4th,to me it's a night and day difference in power and creature comforts although I really like the look of the 3rd and the factory E locker.

 

[peter78]

Some good information in here, that I think is still valid for shoppers like me in 2019!

I am trying to decide between a 3rd and 4th gen to be used to haul supplies for home improvement projects (always been jealous of that roll down rear window), yard debris runs with trailer to the city dump and a winter driver vehicle. This will be a 3rd vehicle for our family of 4 with 2 young kids I will be keeping my sedan as a commuter to work except for on bad winter days. This will also be an alternate vehicle for if my sedan or the wife's CUV is in the shop for repairs (we just got through having a rental for 2 weeks straight).

My main question that has been hard to figure out is comparing specs on Edmunds and 1 other random site the 3rd gen is still listed as having MORE cargo space with seats up or folded in second row. Everyone on here talks about the extra space in the 4th gen but the hard figures state the opposite... I'm more concerned with being able to fit more cargo in it then lots of bodies since the whole family will only be in it at random limited times.

2002 4Runner
max Cargo: 79.8cu.ft.
Cargo all seats in place: 44.6 cu.ft.

2004 4Runner
Max Cargo: 75.1 cu. ft.
Cargo all seats in place: 42.2 cu.ft.

Most of the 4th gens that I can find in my area all have the V8 as well which I don't think I need all that power. Trying to stay under $5k. (Was shopping Tundras previously but they all seem to be over our budge for anything in decent shape)

(I wanted to start a new thread but not enough replies yet)

The extra cargo space is more noticeable with the back seat up. The third generation is more narrower, but it has more depth. When my son was little, I could put a stroller in the 3rd and could not in the fourth. With the seats down, to me it becomes less obvious. So, yes you can get more in the 3rd. The third has the back seats come down in two sections split in the middle, the fourth has 1/3, 2/3 fold down seats giving more flexibility.

Other things you might consider is 4th generations are newer, have a timing chain, smoother driver and a bigger feel. The third at least in your 2002 has heated mirrors that are color coded and the car is more fun to drive. (The V8 available in the fourth has a timing belt.)

Both of my 4Runers have hold up well, I would give a slight edge to the 4th as being cheaper in repairs, mainly because of the timing belt. 210,000 in the 4th and 253,000 in the 3rd. I am kind of partial to the 3rd myself.

 

[Kryptoroxx]

I used this thread to help make my decision to get into a 4th gen.

Long time owner of a 3rz 5spd 4x4 with a locker. Offroad capability is solidly in the 3rd gen corner so far however the 4th gen can do everything too....its just bigger and feels a little less nimble.

Cruising, towing, or any other road activity is solidly in the 4th gen corner. The 3rd gen isn't a danger ranger but at modern interstate speeds they can get dragged by the wind more easily.

Aftermarket support so far seems to be in the 3rd gen corner. The 4th gen has options but the 3rd gen has definitely more inventive ideas on how to get many features in the 4th gen.....on a 3rd gen. So there's that.

Stereo from the factory is definitely in the 4th gen corner hands down with no competition from the 3rd gen. You can put a great stereo in them but there's work involved.

Honestly I think the seats were a little more comfy in the 3rd gen. I just picked up the 4th gen today so maybe it's just the memory.

They are both amazing vehicles and you can't really go wrong with either one. Just pick your activity set and go from there.

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[apohl17]

My 0.2 cents:

4th Gen Advantages:
- Towability and Driveability on road - behaves better after lifting
- Noticeably larger driver/passenger quarters (although similar headroom)
- V frik'n 8
- Already has lots of LED's (06+)
- SWC, much better speaker system, especially after HU swap
- Less frame rust hole issues
- Pneumatic lift hood (vs prop rod)
- The clock works


4th Gen Disadvantages:

-Not as iconic/cool
-Definitely less armor/mod/fender flare options
-Slightly less ground clearance
-More wiring to work around/with
-Plastic headlights (vs. glass on 3rd gen)
-Timing belt is a chore on the V8
-Header leaks on the V8 / head gasket probs on the early V6's

There have definitely been times where I wish I kept my 3rd gen, but I am quite happy with the 4th as we speak.

 

[404NotFound]

My dad has a '97 with like 335,000 miles and I have a 2005 with 208,000. We have both driven each others and here is the assessment:

4th gens are better.

BUT

Both are great.

My dad was amazed with the power, handling, ride quality, and interior space of my 4Runner.

I appreciate how his has more ground clearance (and its a 2wd, mine is 4), the visibility, and let's be honest it does have a more classic style that doesn't stray far from the original roots.

Would he trade his 3rd gen for a 4th gen? Absolutely.

Would I trade my 4th for a 3rd? Not a chance. But if a 4th gen was out of my price range I wouldn't kick a 3rd gen out of the garage.

It boils down to what you need and how spartan you want the interior. If you don't need the newer interior enhancements of the 4th gen then you will be happy with a 3rd gen.

If you do get a 3rd gen, find a purple one with a 4cyl/5-speed. There's no advantage to it, it's just unique to the generation.

 

[Thebeastlives]

This argument will go on forever. The 3rd gen guys would say they have the best 4 runner made. They have their list to prove it. The 4th gen and 5th gen guys will argue their case. I like the 5th gen above all others, but my old 3rd gen is a classic..lol

 

[kapchure]

This was a really helpful thread even if it’s from over 10years ago. I am in the market for one but don’t know the common issues that 04-08 has. I heard head gasket leaks mostly and I didn’t know when they change the design to stop but I read 12/05 and before and that was super helpful. Thank you!


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[Thebeastlives]

Age old debate

Which gen is the best seems to have been debated for a long time. 3rd vs 4th and now 5th gen all seem to have caused this age old debate which is best. When I was once a jeep guy we used to debate the cj5 vs cj7, xj. I currently owned a 3rd gen, 4th gen and new 5th gen. My sons have inherited the older 4 runners n each have Toyota reliability at heart. The 5th gen is by far an improvement over the all 4 runners. The suspension on the road and off is far better than the 3rd. It isn't much better than the 4th but better. The 4wd capability is better than the 3rd and 4th because the atrac and other electronic gadgets are better. Running 35" on this truck has far less issues than the either the 3rd or 4th gens. The 5th gen is a far more modern 4 runner with all the things us 4 runner owners like without the constant tuning and fixing you get with a 300k older 4 runner. NOTE: the 4th gen is much quicker than either the 3rd or 5th gen. The 4th gen is lighter than the 5th and severely more powerful than the 3rd gen.

 

[2003-4x4runner]

Which gen is the best seems to have been debated for a long time. 3rd vs 4th and now 5th gen all seem to have caused this age old debate which is best. When I was once a jeep guy we used to debate the cj5 vs cj7, xj. I currently owned a 3rd gen, 4th gen and new 5th gen. My sons have inherited the older 4 runners n each have Toyota reliability at heart. The 5th gen is by far an improvement over the all 4 runners. The suspension on the road and off is far better than the 3rd. It isn't much better than the 4th but better. The 4wd capability is better than the 3rd and 4th because the atrac and other electronic gadgets are better. Running 35" on this truck has far less issues than the either the 3rd or 4th gens. The 5th gen is a far more modern 4 runner with all the things us 4 runner owners like without the constant tuning and fixing you get with a 300k older 4 runner. NOTE: the 4th gen is much quicker than either the 3rd or 5th gen. The 4th gen is lighter than the 5th and severely more powerful than the 3rd gen.

FYI, All 4th Gens came with ATRAC.

 

[Thebeastlives]

FYI, All 4th Gens came with ATRAC.

Yea I didn't say they didn't. I just said the atrac and other electronic gadgets are just better on the 5th gen. Our 4th gen just does not traverse the same terrain as well as the 5th gen even though they both have rear lockers. The suspension travel, wheel articulation, updated atrac and crawl control features all make it better off the road then our 4th gen. The heavily modified 3rd gen goes every where both goes but it took years to mod that thing right and is far from stock.

 

[spartacus]

The 3rd Gen is the lightest and has more ground clearance.