Buying 1st runner.

[formulad97]

Hello everyone, I've been reading threads for a few weeks, and wanted to get some opinions before I make my purchase. I think I narrowed my choices down to two. The first is a 1999 Limited V6 4wd auto with 188k on it. And a 1998 4wd, 2.7 5 speed with 136k. Both are from a used car dealership. I just wanted some constructive opinions on if you had a choice between the two, what would you pick and why? the 99 is $1000 less than the 98. Thanks in advance.

 

[4-Ripcord]

No such thing as 98 sport..

The far better one also has the lower price, no brainer to me.

 

[fourwd1]

The far better one also has the lower price, no brainer to me.

A lower price doesn't make it better, it just makes it less expensive.

And the OP asked for constructive opinions.

A 4 cyl/5 spd is going to have better fuel economy.

A 6 cyl will tow a little more weight, if that's in the picture.

An auto trans is nicer to drive if you do a lot of stop and go commuting every day.

136K miles is over 3 years worth less mileage on a vehicle one year older (based on the average which is 15K/yr).

The cushy options of the Limited are nice, but are they necessary to you?

 

[formulad97]

I think my main concern would be the reliability and cost of maintenance of the 3.4 with an auto tran compared to the 2.7 with the 5 speed

 

[vthokie]

I don't know about the 2.7 from experience, but I have had no trouble from my 3.4 v6. They are very reliable engines. I would also say that many people think the 3.4 is under powered, which would lead me to think the 2.7 must be way under powered. Gas mileage might be a little better with the 2.7, but in the long run I would go for the 3.4 based on what i have seen/heard from others and on my own experience.

Edit: It has also been easy to maintain the 3.4. Just change the oil regularly, and change the timing belt/water pump every 100k.

 

[formulad97]

Seems like the 2.7 and 3.4 are both good platforms. More bells and whistles in the limited, but just has higher mileage. I think I need to take the limited for a test drive. I will let you guys know what I come up with . Thanks

 

[KCcarguy]

Go for the limited. It really doesn't get much better than a 3rd gen limited 4WD, IMO. IF it's been taken care of, etc.