V8, should you buy?
- Thread starter mteolus
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0verland
New member
I literally just watched this video. He has a lot of great points about the 4Runner, but staying away from the V8 is one that I really disagree with. The timing belt really isn't a huge issue as long as you service it within the necessary intervals. I personally think that the V8 offers more capability over the V6... More HP, more TQ, high towing capacity and in real world use basically the same gas milage.
If the timing belt is something that holds up anyone from choosing one over the other, they should probably just be looking at buying a Prius. :bounce:
If the timing belt is something that holds up anyone from choosing one over the other, they should probably just be looking at buying a Prius. :bounce:
HOJeepster
New member
The timing belt isn't an 'issue' it's a maintenance item at 100k intervals and $800. Woopdeedoo.
Battle Born Offroad
New member
The V8 is a better platform in every way.
Inv4drZm
Senior Member
Good point, the UZ's are legendary. They've been in tons of lexus cars. The 1UZ is very common for engine swaps, also has a timing belt.
phatcheeks
New member
I drive my v8 with two spark plugs removed. So it pretty much a v6 now.
Oddly enough I'm currently debating the v6 vs. v8, a local dealer has a 2004 v6 SR5 with 150k for $9300 and a 2006 v8 Sport with 121k and the timing belt just replaced for $12900. I commute 60 miles of interstate daily so I'm thinking the v6 but I really dig the look of the 06 Sport model. I sold my 3rd gen 6 months ago and miss it so now I'm shopping 4th gens. Any advice?
AuSeeker
Elite Member
Both the V6 and the V8 are great engines, the only thing I will mention is that the early 4th Gen V6s 2003 through early 2006 can have head gasket issues at any time or never depending on the luck of the draw, check the build date on the VIN sticker on the driver's door jamb if the build date is before 12/05 you can possibly have the head gaskets go bad and will need them replaced.
The only other advice I can give is too thoroughly check the frame for rust, if there's any major rust other than minor surface rust walk away, no way to fix that issue short of replacing the entire frame which is cost prohibitive, IMHO, also if either is 4 WD be sure that the system works flawlessly, if the 4WD system hasn't been used regularly the transfer case actuator can freeze/seize up.
Ida4runner
New member
Read up on head gasket issues with that V6
wcjeep
Member
The 2008 has standard side airbags. Optional on earlier models. This alone would be the deciding factor.
nevada
Senior Member
driven correctly, all interstate, you will see decent mileage, if that is your concern. nearly 20 I would say. the v6 supposedly only get 1-2 better. but that 4.7 is SO SMOOTH. its the way to go for sure.
No surprise. Scotty is a minimalist. 4 cylinders, no turbos, no auto trannies, 2WD. His ideal vehicle is a 4A-FE Corolla with a manual transmission and wind up windows.
I like my 19 4Runner just fine, but I would have bought a 4.7L like my 03 4th Gen had in a heartbeat if they offered it, and would gladly pay the price to change a timing belt every 100K.
I like my 19 4Runner just fine, but I would have bought a 4.7L like my 03 4th Gen had in a heartbeat if they offered it, and would gladly pay the price to change a timing belt every 100K.
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Wardbird
Member
When I bought my 4th Gen 6cyl I would have been happy with either. My primary focus was low mileage and clean with no rust. I almost never tow anything, both engines have their pros and cons. I have had many engines over the years with timing belts, including my '94 Accord that we drove to 275k miles and then I sold to a friend and today is still running at 375k. The timing belt is simply a maintenance issue.
The 4.7L engines have proven to be rock solid and long-lasting. I wouldn't base your decision upon the opinion of a YouTube poster, especially based upon those spurious reasons.
The 4.7L engines have proven to be rock solid and long-lasting. I wouldn't base your decision upon the opinion of a YouTube poster, especially based upon those spurious reasons.
