Prospective Owner: Need Help!

[SeaScum_Scallywag]

Howdy Gang,

I'm new to the forum, and I am in the market for a 4runner. I have spent the last month doing research, but I'm at a crossroads.

I have a budget of approx. $13,000. I just found a '98 SR5, stock w/ manual transmission and 117,000 miles for $9,998 (list). I haven't contacted the dealer about a maitenance record, but the CARFAX does not list the major maitenance for 3rd gens (timing belt, h20 pump). It also lists 3 previous owners. Is this a good choice?

OR

I might buy a 4th gen. SR5 or Sport with approx. 130k miles. I like the stock off-road options with 4th gen as I wont be going much further than a lift/beefier tires. This is going to be used as a daily driver, fishing, and hunting rig with the occasional road trip back home to Mt for some off-road fun.

I need some advice! Lower mileage '98 from an infinity dealer? Or higher mileage 4th gen from (most likely) a shifty used car lot? Also, time is an issue. I have to drive to MT on June 21st with a car full of musical equipment, I would like to have my 4runner by then.

 

[jgue467]

3rd or 4th Gen

Hmm, well I'd be biased to say 3rd Gen cuz that's what I got. For your intended purpose either would be satisfactory. From what I read, the 4G w/have a better ride, not sure how much though. For certain the 4G w/have significantly more pep, acceleration due to the 4L (w/VVT) engine vs 3.4 (w/No VVT), mileage w/b close to the same.

Front/backseat space appears about the same to me but I've noticed the rear compartment is quite a bit Smaller (shorter) on the 4G, not sure how that happened but I measured about 9" shorter inside, that could Really impact all you want to carry back there, so check 'em both out carefully on this aspect.

So I think it comes down to Looks, which do you like better? Or maybe power, do you want more pep? Perhaps you should drive each to get that feeling for yourself.

Then you have to consider how each appears to have been maintained. I always head for the hood, check out the air cleaner (dirty/nasty?) and check the trans/engine oil to see their condition.

You still have some time, I would keep my eyes peeled, there maybe other good ones just coming up. Don't forget ebay-great finds there too.

Luck, let us know what you do. :banana:

 

[gm350reratliff]

The 4th gen will be a little roomier. The 3rd gen may be a little funner to drive with the stick. I'd say drive both and see which one you like better. Either way you really can't go wrong.