First Generation opinion

[Viva Villa]

To all Toyota 4 runner enthusiast,

I was curious to know what you personally felt was the most desirable.

The independent or solid axle?

IFS or Carb?

Favorite year?

Color?


Just wanted to pick everyone's brain. My Dad had a pretty sweet 87 that was white with a black stripe, he had it for about 15 years. bought it brand new....I will find some pictures.

[fourwd1]

The obvious choice is an 85. Solid axle, fuel injection, removeable top.
If you're lucky enough to find one in good shape, who cares about the color

[grungebucket]

Originally Posted by Viva Villa

I was curious to know what you personally felt was the most desirable. The independent or solid axle?

For what purpose? For serious off-roading (rock crawling, for instance), the solid axle suspension is a clear winner. Much more range of motion, stronger, etc. If the truck is your daily driver and will spend most of its time on-road, with occasional light off-road service (camping, etc.), then the independent front will work just fine, and be marginally more comfortable.

IFS or Carb?

I assume you meant "EFI or carb". Personally, I never met a carb I wouldn't have loved to replace with fuel injection. Fuel injection makes a bit more power (in the stock configuration, at least), gives slightly better fuel economy, and is easier to maintain. Some people just aren't comfortable with electronic devices under their hoods, though. I suppose it depends on what you're used to.