Looking for buying advice, is this worth it?

[ztojay]

Hey all,

currently just browsing/window shopping the online market for something that gets me from A to B and is manual so I can learn stick mainly. Prob one of the cheapest ones on the market in my area (BC, Canada) but after reading up, I've learned a lot about the things I might need to look out for problem-wise.

Looking to get some thoughts and further insights on something like this. I've read a lot about the preference for 3rd gens, and that they do make manuals up to the year 2000. Would be interested in some minor off-roading in the future, and maybe becoming a project car if time allows.

A rusted frame would be a no (plan to check if i consider it after hearing some thoughts, just wondering if it's worth it having to potentially upkeep and maintain for other issues (Gaskets, fluid changes, timing chain/belt, plugs, hoses, wiring... etc.)

Appreciate all the help, thanks!

 

[fourwd1]

Frame rust is definitely something to look out for.
Also, the 3.0 V6 was notorious for head gasket issues. Eventually Toyota and the aftermarket came out with improved gaskets.

 

[ztojay]

Frame rust is definitely something to look out for.
Also, the 3.0 V6 was notorious for head gasket issues. Eventually Toyota and the aftermarket came out with improved gaskets.

Agreed on the rust part.

Yeah, about the head gasket issues and what not, is it worth it to check out and maybe ride something like this till it dies, maybe think about an engine swap in the future ($$$ for sure), or should I just consider a later gen model?