is the 5 speed tranny worth it?

[dina]

hi guys im considering buying a 4runner

ive narrowed it down to 2.

one is a 2003 limited 4x4 with 42k miles
other is a 2005 sr5 4x4 with 39k miles.

both cost roughly 16,500.

now is the 5 speed tranny worth sacrificing all the creature comforts of the limited?

is the 4 speed as reliable as the 5 speed? vice versa?

 

[James_T]

The 5 speed is more fuel efficient than the 4 speed, but just marginally. If they are roughly the same price, I'd prefer the Limited, since I assume it came with lots of the extras, such as the JBL system, heated leather seats, dual zone AC, etc.

Both should "Toyota-reliable", as far as I'm concerned.

 

[CJ3Flyr]

They are both a solid choice. The 05 has a few other mechanical 'upgrades' IIRC, VVti etc. Overall it won't mean 'that much'.


The thing I would consider is January 2013. In Jan 2013 when you want to find an '09 or a '10 the 2003 will have the stigma of being 10 years old. I just think it'll be easier to sell the '05 for more money.


I'm assuming they are both V6's. If so make sure to verify 4wd operation in 2wd, 4hi and 4lo.


Good luck! :cheers:

 

[Larry77]

If you are going to tow at all the 5 speed is definitely worth it...

 

[Uneek]

The V8s always had a 5-speed. Only the 2003-04 V6 had a 4-speed.

 

[dina]

I might just search for a v8 one then because I take public transit to school.
I only need the truck for going out, trips and just around town driving maybe 150 miles per week tops.

 

[jonz]

I own a 04 SR5 2WD with the 4 Speed and a 08 SE 4WD (not full time) with the 5 speed. Both have the V6 engine. The 04 with 120K Miles still gets 20-22 if I keep it under 70MPH on the highway. The 08 gets the same if driven the same way. Both are fine as far as I'm concerend. I have a minor issue with the transmission that is under warranty. dealership is replacing, but it's overkill in my opinion.

I don't think you can go wrong either way. If it was me, I'd go with the SR5 since I don't like the plastic body armor on the 03's. Transmission would be a non-factor for me based on my understanding of your needs.

 

[MikesToy]

If it was me, I'd go with the SR5 since I don't like the plastic body armor on the 03's.

I have an '03 and i do NOT have plastic body armor.

 

[MikesToy]

dina, just buy the limited. You won't regret it. :

 

[JAC]

If you planning on keeping it for ever?..get the 03 Limited

If planning on trade in or sell it in a couple of years..go with the 05.. you'll get more buyers for the 05...

 

[MikesToy]

03 Limited; you can use all the whistles and bells when you need it.
Better having it when you need it than not having it when in dare need.

 

[074.0Runner]

I have an '03 and i do NOT have plastic body armor.

Only the SR5s and Sport Editions had the Chevy Avalanche style body armour.

 

[Timberline]

one is a 2003 limited 4x4 with 42k miles
other is a 2005 sr5 4x4 with 39k miles.

both cost roughly 16,500.

Those seem to be very good prices compared to what I'm seeing here in Colorado.

 

[dina]

thx for your input guys

03 sounds like the better choice.

the 03 is also from a toyota dealer.

should i purchase a ECP warranty with it?

they are offering me 2 year coverage for $1300 more. its option b too so its comprehensive coverage not just powertrain.