HUNTING for a 4runner! What to buy!?

[Sharpshooter677]

Hey guys,

I am in search of a daily driver that I can take on offroad adventures, long trips, and just look bad ass! I am a VW/Porsche guy and have never owned an offroading vehicle or a Toyota, so I need help!

When searching for a reliable offroader, I had no doubt in my mind it would be a 4Runner.. My preferences are the 1996-2002 models specifically the 2000 and later SR5 for their more modern comforts and appearances. At the same time I am a sucker for a properly set up late 80's car.

My MAIN QUESTIONS is, WHERE ARE ALL THE TRUE MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS?! Again, I am new to the Toyotas, so feel free to school me on this.. Why do I only see Automatics available for sale on my local listings?

Which engine? 4 cyl 6 cyl Supercharged? Which is most reliable, bulletproof, longest lasting, most efficient? This is my daily driver so I need something I won't have to loose sleep over (im sure I won't have to).

Any info is much appreciated! I am excited to get into the LEGENDARY 4Runner game and hit the trails!

 

[4-Ripcord]

2000 was the last year for the manual transmission. Also last year for the rear diff lock.

The 3.4 V6 is an excellent and very reliable engine, just keep up on the oil changes.

 

[4Beast]

I'm biased, but I would suggest trying for an '03+. For a little extra change, you get a lot of new refinements, (more space and power being the biggest). Course there are also lots of cool electronic doohickeys and thingamajigs on the 4th generation too!

 

[XJeepguy]

How serious of 'off road' ? Although I rarely have to use mine , the factory rear locker is nice to have and even nice to know its there even if not in use. I see you like a manual ? The 4Runner auto is a very good tranny and actually very good in off road situations . Everyone will suggest 99+ - 03 but I have no regrets buying my 98
It has yet to let me down in any situation , off road or on .

Good Luck !

Hey guys,

I am in search of a daily driver that I can take on offroad adventures, long trips, and just look bad ass! I am a VW/Porsche guy and have never owned an offroading vehicle or a Toyota, so I need help!

When searching for a reliable offroader, I had no doubt in my mind it would be a 4Runner.. My preferences are the 1996-2002 models specifically the 2000 and later SR5 for their more modern comforts and appearances. At the same time I am a sucker for a properly set up late 80's car.

My MAIN QUESTIONS is, WHERE ARE ALL THE TRUE MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS?! Again, I am new to the Toyotas, so feel free to school me on this.. Why do I only see Automatics available for sale on my local listings?

Which engine? 4 cyl 6 cyl Supercharged? Which is most reliable, bulletproof, longest lasting, most efficient? This is my daily driver so I need something I won't have to loose sleep over (im sure I won't have to).

Any info is much appreciated! I am excited to get into the LEGENDARY 4Runner game and hit the trails!