buying 4runner , help decide between

[nu24runner]

hi all,

i am new to 4 runner and in fact this is going to be first toyota. i have to decide between 2003 LIMITED and 2005 LImited with a mileage difference of around 10K and price difference of at least 2 to 3 grand . i need help decide which one.
is there difference between the two vehicles or they are basically the same except for the year difference
are there any major upgrades in 2005 compared to 2003.
finally Limited trim come with XREAS suspension right?

 

[kai920]

XREAS was standard on sport editions and optional on limiteds. As far as I know the biggest thing is the V8 got VVT-i(Variable Valve Timing intelligence) in 2005. So if you are looking at V8s that's a bonus on the 05.

You can about that here and all year models to see what was new each year.

http://www.top4runners.com/runhist/runhist42003.html

 

[TRDCal]

I love my 03 and don't regret buying it but if money wasn't a factor and I had found a nice 05 I would have bought that instead. There are some small changes and chances are you'll have some warranty still left on the 05.

 

[nu24runner]

thank you both , the 2003 Limited seems to have X-reas suspension.im still doing my research and i m seriously considering this 03. will keep every one posted.

 

[gptoy96]

v6's got a 5 speed transmission in 05 also, 4 speed for 03-04.

 

[wrestler157]

when i was looking to buy i was either deciding between an 03 or 05 also i ending up going with the 05 just because it was newer(i didnt really research the difference or anything) it was 2 grand more with the same miles but i thought it would just be nicer to have the newer one and maybe it would last me 2 years longer than the 03 but to be honest either way i think you will be happy. also if you plan on any off roading and doing more than a spacer lift i would get the one without xreas if you not comfortable ripping it all out.