Keep the 97 SR5 4WD or the 08 Limited V8 4WD?

[TejasRunner01]

Current I have both a 1997 SR5 4WD with 189k miles, everything works and is very sorted. I also just bought a 2008 Limited V8 4WD with 159k miles. Trying to decide which one to keep. If I could keep both I would!

On paper, it is an upgrade in every way.. however I have this nagging feeling that I will regret selling the 3rd gen because it drives so great and is just awesome. The lack of power of the 3.4 is lacking but everything just feels like it will last forever since it is more mechanical. Non interference engine with timing belt.

The 4th gen on the other hand has an awesome v8 and is the unicorn that many want. I just worry about several big ticket items on the 4th gen platform as a whole.. the exhaust manifold cracking, electronic transfer case actuators, interference engine w/ timing belt.

I'd love to hear your thoughts!

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[JuniorPigeon]

I can probably help, I've been exactly in your shoes. My very first 4Runner was a '97 SR5 and it was my favorite vehicle I'd ever owned, made me fall in love with these things. Eventually I bought a '17 TRD Pro and had both at the same time and I ended up selling the '17 while keeping the '97.

Then this '07 came along and I was sold. I kept both for a short period of time but finally let go of the '97 and as much as I miss it, I don't regret it. The V8 is amazing and I think the 4th gens in general are the perfect balance. Bite the bullet and get DT headers, replace the timing belt, and put it in 4Lo with the center diff locked once a month or so. Delete the HCF and bypass the AIP. Keep an eye on your calipers and fully cycle them by hand every so often. Send it.

 

[twa318]

After being a longtime owner of both, its 4G by a large margin.

Just spend some more time driving both and you'll come to the conclusion on your own. The big ticket repairs items shouldn't be a concern.

The 4th gen improves on the 3rd generation in every way. Especially range, the puny 18 gallon gas tank in the 3rd gen made any road trips painful. With the 23 gallon gas tank on the 4G I can go 400+ miles on a single tank easy, and way more comfortably as well. Better road manners, way more power compared to the 5VZ-FE, feels roomier inside, its really no contest.

 

[TejasRunner01]

Thank you for all of your replies! I am currently trying to get some more seat time in the 4th gen. So far so good! I think the AIP bypass makes me feel better and since the actuators are working atm, as long as I use them every month I assume we should be fine?

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[The G-Man]

After being a longtime owner of both, its 4G by a large margin.

Just spend some more time driving both and you'll come to the conclusion on your own. The big ticket repairs items shouldn't be a concern.

The 4th gen improves on the 3rd generation in every way. Especially range, the puny 18 gallon gas tank in the 3rd gen made any road trips painful. With the 23 gallon gas tank on the 4G I can go 400+ miles on a single tank easy, and way more comfortably as well. Better road manners, way more power compared to the 5VZ-FE, feels roomier inside, its really no contest.

4th gen has 23 gal tank? Most I have ever put in is about 17. Does it really have a 6 gap reserve? Follow up, best I’ve gone is like 350 miles between fill ups


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[AuSeeker]

4th gen has 23 gal tank? Most I have ever put in is about 17. Does it really have a 6 gap reserve? Follow up, best I’ve gone is like 350 miles between fill ups


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Yes 4th Gens have a 23 gallon fuel tank.

 

[Kinnick]

I owned a 3rd gen and now have a 4th gen V8 limited. I love the V8, full-time 4wd, and it tows my boat great!

 

[TejasRunner01]

Sold the 3rd gen. Couldn't be happier with the 4th gen so far.

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