Thinking about switching to a 3rd gen..

[foskco87]

So I own a 1992 5 spd 3.0 4runner and I absolutely love it. I would never even think of getting rid of it except for the fact that I know it will inevitably rust and I either wont get anything when I sell it or Ill have to put as much money as the thing is worth into it to get a decent buck. I live on the west coast where it constantly rains and snows alot resulting in salty roads so I know it will happen. currently it has no rust although at the bottom of the tailgait it is starting to bubble a tiny bit. Anyway I want your opinions. Do I keep the 2nd gen and just do my best to avoid the rust thing and maybe repair the little bits as they come. OR, do I sell it now while its worth a good buck (in Canada they sell for way more than in US) and invest in a 3rd gen runner which I know are much more tollerant to weather. I know both have similar dimensions and body style so Im sure they would offroad very similarily. I know the 3.4 gets better mileage and has alot more power. The only thing is I need a 5spd. No autos for me. So that will make it challenging. Anyway what should I do? How much do decent 96-99 runners go for in the US? Cause they would be easily 10+ grand around here

 

[Zinarac]

I am in the same situation as you. I have a 1993 3.0 4Runner 5 speed and I want to upgrade to a 3rd gen before my 2nd gen is worth nothing. If you can afford a 3rd gen I would go for it. They definately have a lot more power and the interior is much nicer. I love my 2nd gen 4runner, but after driving my friends 3rd gen I want to investt in one.

In California a 96-99 would run about $8,000 - $10,500 depending on the condition it's in. It is difficult to find 5 speeds though. I rarely see them around where I live.

 

[XJeepguy]

I would go with a 3rd Gen . I have off roaded with my friends 92 and its plenty capable for sure . But ya you wont have to worry about rusting out and mines been extremely reliable since I've owned it . I have seen quite a few SR5's around with manual tranny , I think if you have patience you will find one . What ever your getting TRY and get one with the rear locker , that thing ROCKS !!! Keep an eye on Craigslist and our Buy N Sell here . Also get on bcclassifieds.com and look up here in the interior , if ya dont mind the drive !


If your a big 2nd Gen fan , just down the road from my house , this guy was selling his 95 , it was a nice shiny red and in awesome condition . It had one small dent in the front bumper and NO rust whatsoever on it . I was seriously thinking of buying it !! He had been in an accident in a different vehicle and couldnt drive it anymore . I seen him last week and he sold it for $ 2000.00 !!!!! I just KICKED myself for dragging my ass on that one