Looking for a 4runner..

[alphonsus]

I'm looking for a 4runner under $8 and under 100k miles if possible. The years I'm looking at is the 96-98 if I can afford it. But most likely the 97 since its cheap and the 2nd year they produced that model so hopefully the kinks got fixed.

Is there any difference in the 96-98 or are they pretty much the same with maybe a few differences? Anything I should know about 4runners or the best year to get? From edmunds they seem like nice reliable cars but I would just like to know which year would be the best to look for and what years not to look for.
Also how easy is it to roll one of these over and how about its safety when rolled over? I'm also looking for safe car that will protect my passangers and I.

I plan on supercharging it in the future and other little mods to it.
Thanks
aL

 

[Thai]

Very little changed from 1996 to 1998. 1999 was the big year.

The ONLY major thing was the head gasket recall for 1996 models (and maybe early 1997)...so make sure that your 1997 4runner had this recall.

Here's a link to the changes for 3rd gen 4runners:

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=410

Hope this helps...good luck.


BTW, for $8, you can only get a sunshade for your 4runner...you still need a bit more $$$$ to get the acutal car!!

 

[peter78]

Here is a link about the 3rd generation model with the differences between each year. 99 is the biggest year for changes.

http://www.top4runners.com/ja/runhist3.html

 

[tkh329]

Alphonsus - I'm in the same position you're in, looking for a cheap 3rd gen, under about $9k or so. You're not going to be able to find one locally for that price and those miles, however you can find them... on ebay. Your chances are significantly improved if you dont care about 4wd, SR5 vs Limited, leather etc. Simply put though, the only way you're going to be able to find a 4Runner matching all that is on ebay, so be prepared to pay shipping or fly to pick it up. Consider this when you find a local one for a little bit more. Also consider whether or not you care if its a local mechanic you know that inspects it or someone else, say from the city where you pick it up. Keep in mind however, i'm speaking only from my experience. Good luck.

 

[alphonsus]

Thanks for the input guys. A 4WD vehicle would be nice but I dont live in the snow but do go up there for snowboarding sometimes.

I'm going to probably scope out some auto auctions and see if there is anything good and get a feeling for the prices which is probably my best bet. But if not does anyone know where I can possibly find salvage 4runners? Or maybe even 4runners that just needs a motor swap. I looked on ebay and there is only one 3rd gen 4runner with a salvage title.