What we can learn from our Jeep counterparts!

[WallyWest]

I have both. A 2002 4Runner Sport, and a 2008 Jeep GC. Has the gutless 3.6 V6 with the full time AWD setup. I swear, the 3.4 in my 4Runner is much stronger. And no I don't have a SC on it either, it's stock.

Aside from being underpowered I like the Jeep. Not crazy about the AWD all the time, but it's my wife's and it works for her. For anything you would encounter in bad weather on road it's quite capable. And pretty comfortable for trips.

I will say I'm impressed so far with how easy the Jeep is to work on. Oil changes are super simple, and there's a built in channel below the filter that funnels the oil over the axle, no leaking all over the axle and suspension. The transmission pan is held on with six bolts that don't go through the side of the pan, they run through these clips that grab the pan from underneath and hold it on. Nice thick, reusable, rubber gasket on the pan. And all the bolts are clear of obstructions and easy to get to. The transmission is a Mercedes 5 speed auto, known for being quite stout, so I'm crossing my fingers that it holds up better than most Chrysler trans. I was expecting a 2008 to have all kinds of covers and nonsense in the way every time you need to get to something, but so far it's even easier to work on than the 4Runner.

I do think the Wrangler Rubicon is about the best factory 4X4, in terms of being able to do serious off roading bone stock. But the 4Runner is the most versatile. Reasonably comfortable, good 4WD system that adapts to most any situation, and with a few mods a very solid off road machine.

To each their own, I got nothing against Jeeps.

 

[jsukey]

I may get crucified for this one, but here goes! I am on my 2nd 4Runner in 9 years. Had a tree fall on my '02 Limited 4X4. I bought it back from the insurance company and continued to drive it for another 2 years. I ran across my '00 S/C Limited 4X4, and sold the '02. Currently sitting at 258k miles, and running strong! I am an avid Jeeper though! I love playing in the rocks, and I also like going fast! I use my 4Runner for work 95% of the time, as I have yet to see anything that can handle oilfield roads like the 4Runner does! I bought my '07 Wrangler about 4 years ago. It performs like a champ in the rocks! I have built if from the ground up. It is fully locked and loaded. Everything from the frame down has been upgraded. Skip ahead 2 years! I finally finished building my Jeep...so I decided to buy another one for the street! In steps my '10 Jeep SRT8! So far, an Arrington 440 stroker has been added, along with a built trans and rear end. Made 550 to the wheels, so we figure it's putting out right around 700hp. It has surpised and embarrased many people with their Camaro's, Vette's, Mustangs, Porsche's, Lambo's, etc. I love all 3 of them!! I am a member of a couple of Jeep clubs here in TX. We are all open to whatever you bring on the trail, as long as it has seatbelts...and you tread lightly!