bigfootdude1

bigfootdude1

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hello all. new member. looking to buy a 4runner.will be living near reno,nev. so 4x4 a must.also more power is better.have 6000 dollar budget.will be used on and off road. main question is what year and model is best and pros and cons......thank you
 
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Google it, then google it again, and again. There are years to stay away from, but you need to figure out which generation is best for you and how much it'll cost. The 4Runner in general is a solid vehicle.

Though from your budget, a 3rd generation or older sounds like what you can afford and I recommend a 3rd gen because you get a rugged yet pretty modernized vehicle for it's age, it also has probably the largest market of aftermarket parts and is arguably the most capable stock.
 
We have a very nice classified sect here also ! Alot of good builds for great prices so you can see what others have done & their mods & prices ! 3rd gen. are very stout and in your price range . Check Autotrader in you area I would go say 300 mi. outward
 
I would also recommend the 3rd Gen on your budget--if you get one on the low end of the spectrum, you could maybe add a few useful goodies early on. The 3rd Gen's V6 is the best of the earlier models' engines, and there's a lot of aftermarket support (most ads start at '96 and up).
 
Yeah, I know--1st Gen is a classic, while the 2nd Gen is the red-headed stepchild that no one quite knows how to classify. I still like the looks of the 2nd Gen best, anyway. Just remember--the engine that everyone gives grief about in the 2nd Gen (the infamous 3.slow) was given to us by the 1st Gen!
 
Hmmm--so how come the "classic" section includes 2nd Gens too? Huh tough guy?! Huh?!! (Oops--did that just come off my keyboard?--HEHE)

They tried to lump you in with the 3rd gen guys, but they pitched a fit and wouldn't have you. You're stuck with the 1st gen guys now. That's ok, though, you ARE a 1st gen guy now. I always knew you had it in you. :)

OP, if you're looking to get into a daily driver that can handle mild to moderate offroad and the winter storms, I think the 3rd gen is right up your alley. If you're looking to build a capable wheeler that can serve as a daily driver, I think the 1st gen will give you much better bang for your buck.
 
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Please gentlemen I mean no offense! I like 2nd Gens. This kid up the hill from me just picked up a clean 2G. Now I want it! Not sure what year, but its white with not a dent or scratch on it. Zero rust. Looks like its never been off-road ever. 4- cyl. I'm guessing, as it has no V6 badging on it. Gotta love Cali for finding such ridiculously pristine old 4RNRs.
I agree that, for ur needs a 3G would probably be ur best bet. More power, (especially if ur driving up to Tahoe or Truckee) more creature comforts by far, and a bit roomier. If u have kids or regularly have multiple passengers, then a 4 door is a necessity. 3G it is!
 
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