Upgrade a '96 to another 3rd gen or 4th gen?

[pencil_&_paper]

Our '96 limited has run rock solid since we bought it over a year ago, but it has a dent in the rear hatch, and a few rust spots in the door panels. My girlfriend wants to get a better looking vehicle, but we've already invested in two brand-new sets of winter/summer tires and would like to buy another 4-runner that will make use of our tires.

Just wanted some suggestions on what year/model you would upgrade to if you could do a trade-in on a mechanically sound vehicle that could use some paint here and there. Let's say you had $5k plus the trade-in. I like the look of the 2003 sport. I would think we would get about $2k - $2.5k for the trade-in.

Tell me what 4-Runner you would aim for!

Thx,
Mike

 

[Hepar]

I think it depends a lot on what you might be looking for in a "new" vehicle. I personally avoided the 4th gens because I didn't like the bigger size, the new design and it just felt a little too soccer-mommy-ish. But they definitely have their advantages. They came with a V8 if you're looking for say a bit more towing power. They are larger, so they are more comfortable if you have a family or just like the added space. And it's usually a lot easier to find a 4th gen with low miles than a 3rd gen.

 

[SCRunner12]

As Hepar said, it depends on what you are looking to do with your 4runner. My parents have a 4th gen and they do look a bit soccer momish, but a nice set of tires, rims and a small lift do wonders for them. The v6 is awesome and I'm sure the v8 is that much better. It is really comfortable and has more space, but I just got back from a trip with 4 adults and a baby and we had plenty of room for all of our stuff and to sit comfortably.

 

[JohnWiggy]

4th gen's are sick just like all runners are. When it comes to the "soccer momish" feel/ look I think it's all in that mini van like front bumper just like late 3rd gen's. 4th gen's with shrockworks bumpers look insanely bad @ss. One of my favorite rigs on this site is "thejosh's" 4th gen. Lots of mods of course but know the potential is HUGE! Do it, do it... :tongue:

 

[AZ4FNER]

Is it a possibility to keep it for "Wheelin" ONLY? If so, who cares what it looks like?

Take your cash without trade and find a daily driver you can afford. You said ~$5K. But, make sure you account for the additional tags/insurance expense/upkeep.

This is what I would do if you have already confirmed the truck is a solid performer! If I'm understanding you correctly..you want a new car because of athestics. Be careful, you could end up trading into someone elses mechanical nightmare.