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First, a bit of terminology: You are talking about locking hubs, not a locking differential, they are completely different. A lot of people get rid of the auto hubs and install manual hubs since it's a lot simpler design and less prone to malfunction.
The generation of 4runner you are looking for is the 1st gen and they are available up to 89. The generation of truck you are looking for is the 2nd gen (confusing, isn't it) and they are available up to 88.
1985 is the most coveted year because they have fuel injection and a solid axle. From your post, I kinda doubt that you need the solid axle, the ifs should do fine for all but the most difficult of rockcrawling. If you're going to be doing trails like the rubicon or harder, then you'll need a solid axle.
The deciding factor on whether to get a 4runner or a truck is the number of people you want to carry. If you want to take a lot of friends, then the 4runner is better. But if it's just going to be you and your girlfriend, then a truck is fine. Off roading is much more fun with friends though.
Also, 4wheel disk brakes were not available until 2003. With the exception of the really old toyotas, you're going to get disks in the front and drums in the rear.
Personally, I would get the 4cyl because it's bulletproof and easy to work on. I've gotten stung by the headgasket problem with the V6 and I've become leary of it. However, the V6 didn't come out until the last year or two of the 1st gen, so you're probably going to end up with the 4cyl anyway.
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