4th gen build

[Gman1]

Hello to all ,
I currently own and wheel a 2011 Toyota Tacoma regular cab 4x4 5spd ( I'll attach a picture or two ) . I'm thinking of switching up and going with a 4th gen 4runner to build into a desert/trail rig . I know and will be searching the forum for info about models and options to build but also wanted to know which model do you guys think will be the better wheeler . The 4.0 v6 or 4.7 v8 both in 4x4 form . I've done some research already and think 05+ comes with a hp increase on the v8 and the 5spd auto for the v6 . Thoughts?

 

[Gman1]

A couple pics or my Tacoma

 

[settytb]

Epic Taco. Nice suspension! Personally after adding a lift and some tires, I kinda wish I had the v8. Although I will say I took a trip to the midwest (from utah) and there is WAY more power at sea level than up at 5k ft altitude. I could light them up in Iowa but I can't do anything here in utah. Although, if you want to kick it sideways in 2wd v6 is your only option as the v8 is awd all the time. Hope that helps some...

 

[Gman1]

Bump . Thanks . I'm shipping around seeing what's out there .

 

[gaterose]

Great Taco!

I would say go for the V8 unless you plan on getting the rear end loose, since it's AWD.

The extra power is always nice when you're going off road and using bigger more aggressive tires, unless you don't want AWD. I guess the added weight of the V8 could be a hindrance in the deserts, but then I'd think the extra power would be a benefit.

The only things I've heard negatively about the V8 is changing the timing chain 90K or whatever; the V6 has a few reported problems with the head gasket but I don't think it's a plague, just something that affects a few.


What sort of mods are you planning? That info might help.. Obviously lift & tires, but AT or MT? LT? Winch/plate bumper or prerunner like the taco? high speed or crawling? etc...

Good luck with your decision!

 

[krupnation]

Very nice Taco! Looks like lots of fun. My vote is for the V8, but I'm not going to turn this into a V6/V8 debate. I have a buddy with a heavily modded Taco for baja racing and prerunning and he's currently debating buying a Ford Raptor because of all the power in that V8 (over 400 ponies!). He's sunk well over $15k into his Taco too. V8 for the extra power with all the add on's. Welcome to the forum.