Is the 05 V8 really worth the extra dough/insurance over the 04 V8?

[ssingh]

I've been waiting patiently for the 05 4Runner and now that its here, I'm actually leaning foward to buying a 04 Limited V8! I mean, the SR5 has chrome grille while the Limited gets the body-colored and looks simlar to a 03 SR5 model. And its obviuos the only mod that has been done is to the V8 engine. I'm not gonna be hauling any trailer or boat so I don't really need all that extra hp. Though the salsa red is one of my fav colors.

Anyway, I'm very disappointed with the exterior changes on the 05 4Runner but I will wait till its actually on the dealership so I can have a real look at it and by that time, I'm positive the 04 will have added incentives (markdowns, discounts, etc). I might even get a good deal on the 04 MDX's too (my second choice over the 4Runner).......well, time will tell.

Later
SS

 

[skategoat]

What don't you like about the exterior on the '05? And what's the difference on the MSRP? Too lazy to look it up myself.

 

[peter78]

I have only driven a Honda variable valve timing car and not a Toyota, but I can tell you the engine makes it extra power higher up in the RPM range. 98% of the time you won't use the extra power. My guess is in normal driving you won't miss it that much. My other thought is the re-sale value will be higher in the more powerful 2005.

 

[TechWrench]

Can't remember where, but I just read that the new V8 isn't going to be available until January. If that is fact, it might factor into your decision.

 

[skategoat]

On the Toyota Canada website, the pricing page only lists the 2005 V6. FYI.

 

[dcampen]

This page also shows the V8 as not available until January:
http://www.toyota.com/4runner/key_features/engine_performance.html

 

[peter78]

Can't remember where, but I just read that the new V8 isn't going to be available until January. If that is fact, it might factor into your decision.

That is correct, you will have to wait till January and then of course the newness will be around for a few more more where they probably won't discount much.

 

[Mark86]

ssingh, I think it is worth waiting for the 05. You will have 35 more hp and VVTI. I am sure it will be better with acceleration and gas mileage. You could get a great deal on an 04 now, but what about the resale value when you go to sell it. Also, the 05 Limited's will not be exactly the same as the 03 SR5. The only similarities will be the black roof rack, the black running boards, and color bumper accents. The running boards on the Limited are still illuminated though. The differences will be color keyed mirrors and the color keyed grill. Hope this helped. Good luck!

 

[dcampen]

That red DOES look good.

Yeah, I really wish that color had been available when I bought mine.

 

[Derek]

Yeah, I really wish that color had been available when I bought mine.

true, I've only seen one '03 SR5 in that red color, I had to look twice because it caught me completely off guard

 

[Bluto]

It may cost much more for an 05.

Higher invoice, no rebates, no good deals, higher interest rates.

Depends on your finances and the market.

Pay $3000 more for an 05, on a 5 year loan, 5.5%. About $60 more a month.


Don't buy the MDX, junk tranny.

 

[ssingh]

Damn......I knew I shouldn't have posted this thread! Alrighty, I 'll just go with my gut feeling........I s'ppose waiting for another 4 months is no biggie (at least I'll get the salsa red!)

Thx for all the replies!

LAter