Help! Buying 1st 4runner 3rd gen

T

tommytr4

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I need to know the difference (specifically) between the SR5 and the Limited 4WD capabilities. One thread said that the SR5 is ultimately better for off-road. I need the tr4 to perform in mostly light snow and ice (Northern VA area). I want to do some light to moderate off-roading with little to no mods.

Am I losing something, in the 4WD department, if I buy a Limited? Is the suspension and 4WD better in the SR5 2nd gen (will probably buy a '98 tr4)? What are the differences? Might buy the vehicle this weekend, so I'm trying to get answers as fast as I can. Thanks!!!
 
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Yea- 3rd gen, sorry.

I'm guessing that the biggest difference is the trim package, including bells and whistles.

Do you think there is a difference in suspension or 4WD systems? Don't really want, or need, an AWD. (I heard that the Limited has an AWD).
 
For what you want it for, either is fine. Same suspension as far as i know. My limited does have a button that effectively puts it in awd and i dont think the sr5's have it on any year and it may have only been on certain years of the limited. The info you seek is on this site, i just dont know the specifics.
 
I'm kind of getting the idea that there isn't a big difference. Thanks to all for the input.....if there's more info anybody can throw my way, I'd appreciate it. I will check this thread in the morning, cause I might buy a tr4 Saturday afternoon.
 
My 4runner is also from the DC area. I have a 97 limited which is the same 4wd as an SR5, I am just able to hit a button for 4 Hi instead of moving a lever. I wish I had a 99-2000 limited or a 01-02 4runner with the AWD ability. In the DC area there are times when it would be much easier to leave it in AWD when we only get a small amount of snow or ice.
 
If the buyers guide doesnt give you the info you want, go to the advance search tool and search for multi-mode. Other than that on some limiteds, most of the differences are just trim and convenience. The awd on the multi-mode would be nice in snow situations. Glad mine has it because it is easier for my daughter.

Good luck
 
for driving in snow and ice on the road you will want the limited and its multi mode capabilities over the regular 4wd. not saying that the 4wd isnt good or wont work just that the awd is better on the road. and the awd can be used off road too, its fine for moderate off-roading and trail running. there is no difference in the suspension systems in the trucks other than some years are taller than others, but for the most part it does not change with trip packages. that being said, the 99 SR5 Highlander sat 1" taller than all the others and so those will have taller springs than a 99 limited, but the springs can be swapped over and interchanged. so any lift for any 3rd gen 4runner will work on any base, SR5, and or limited 4runner from 96-02.
 
Should I Buy this third gen 4Runner?

I'm in the market for my first 4Runner. I'm looking for a commuter and weekend adventurer. Not looking to spend more than $6000 and 4wd sounds like a fun (albeit not that practical for me) decision.

This is my front runner: 1998,185,000 miles, $5399, 4wd. Here's the link.

http://http://www.texastriumphmotors.com/vehicle/used-1998-toyota-4runner-sr5-2177665.cfml?refby=dealersite#ar_top[/URL

Clearly a lot depends on what kind of shape it's in and its maintenance history, but any thoughts?
 
DreamsOf4Runners said:
I'm in the market for my first 4Runner. I'm looking for a commuter and weekend adventurer. Not looking to spend more than $6000 and 4wd sounds like a fun (albeit not that practical for me) decision.

This is my front runner: 1998,185,000 miles, $5399, 4wd. Here's the link.

http://http://www.texastriumphmotors.com/vehicle/used-1998-toyota-4runner-sr5-2177665.cfml?refby=dealersite#ar_top[/URL

Clearly a lot depends on what kind of shape it's in and its maintenance history, but any thoughts?
Click to expand...


broken url
 
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