well - It seems that most folks said to not trade.......but I aint like most folks

I got the 2010 TE with upgraded BFG AT's at $16,285 difference. And the dealer let me rob the old one of the stuff I had put on it. I left there a happy man and have not looked back. Here's how it all went down-
I took the TE for a two hour / 80 mile test drive, even hooked up to a trailer with ATV and climbed a h&lluva mountain with it. This same mtn causes me to downshift my 7.3 powerstroke to hold 45mph with same load. I had to go to 3rd in the t4r but it held 45mph at less than 4k rpm - not bad I thought. The v8 t4r had to do the same shift to maintain the same speed, albeit at a few less rpms.
A few things I noticed: cons
1. yes, it does give up a little "off the line" power to the v8
2. yes, rpm's run a little higher at any given speed
3. The slide-out cargo tray is a p.o.s., that's coming out!
Pros:
1.The power is more than sufficent - Im not a racecar driver. Evenso I find myself going much faster than I feel = the riding experience masks your speed.
2. better gas mileage =so far on one tank of gas, I average 19.2 mpg, stands to improve over time I understand.
3. The interior is much roomier, better laid out. Back seat area much better.
4. The ride is better/smoother, if not quieter - as quiet
5. The off-road capability is equal or better. (Im in the South, so snow/ice is not a consideration)
7. I like the idea of part-time 4wd, locking r-diff is outstanding feature.
6. It looks a lot better to me, much more "tough" looking, not like a glorified mini-van, kinda reminds me of the old "Scout" and even has flavor of old FJ's....hurumph, hurumph
7. Better stock ground clearance. I hunt in rocky terrain with rough rocky roads, so this was a biggie for me.
8. HEADROOM! I'm a big guy.....
9. Electronics - backup camera, bluetooth, etc, etc.
10. water-resistant upholstery.
11. more than 2 power-points! Always thought that was asinine...
All that being said, the pros far outweighed the cons for me. Now if I was a total motor-head, then I can see the appeal of the v8 - I get it. But it was a total package decision for me.
and then there is the $$$$$$ - I just turned 40 :happy bda :cowboy:
and you can't take it with you can you?:driving: