1996-2001 4runner 4WD

[nibbz]

i m looking to buy a 96-2001 4 runner 4WD, should i stick with a 96 -2000
and avoid the 2001 models with the multimode 4WD? im jumping ship from a chevy blazer s10 to toyota suv, i already own a 94 corolla and know about toyota quality, also so confused with the differnt limited sport and sr5 packages, i love chrome bumpers but they do rust, and also prefer cloth seats
vs leather, was looking at Pathfinders also but since turned towards toyota for many reasons,, mainly their interfernece engines i dislike, help me make a decision guys, not much differnce in price between 2000 and 2001 4 runners
almost impossible to find any under 100,000 miles, most are around 150,000 miles aound 4-5 grand in price, thanks

[jetwhine]

nibbz,

There are always advantages to a newer rig. Electronixs are one for sure. But Toyota electronics are very reliable. With the multimode 4wd I believe you can do everything on the fly, except maybe the center diff lock. I like leather, easy cleanup for spills, dogs etc. The limited usually has all the bells and whistles, and goes down from there with the options. I would not worry about the interference fit motor, as long as you stay up on the maintenece of the timing belt, which accurs about every 90,000 miles You can't go wrong with the Toyota 4wd's, hands down the best rig on the market as far as I'm concerned.

[nibbz]

thanks for the reply, i looked at a 2001 limited today that was locally for sale
it had 288.000 miles he was asking 4000.00 for it. driver seat was tore some but other then that the truck was in good condition, but it wasnt 4wd.
i also found a white 97 limited 4wd 149,000 miles for 4966.00 only problem is its in Va. and im in NC about a 4 hr. drive one way lol. looks like to get the best deal though im going to have to drive a ways to get one. all good things happen to those who wait, i will own a 3rd gen 4 runner eventually,

[jetwhine]

nibbz,

If I were you I would try to find one with under 150,00 miles on it. 288,000 is alot of miles for $4000. I would stay away from that one, unless he is offering a killer deal on it. I don't think that would be a good deal. The '97 sounds like a better deal even though you need to drive to see it. Could be worth the drive. Do take your time, when the right one comes around you will know it.

[nibbz]

wow...may have to settle for a 2nd gen 4 runner, im running out of time
and the only good good deal ive ran across is in Va. i was wondering how the 2nd gen 4 runner compared to the 3rd as far as engine troubles ect..
is the 3.0L v6 just as ruggeed as the 3.4L v6 in third gen 4 runners?
but craigslist im just skiddish of when ur the buyer, i just dont trust strangers
and they know ur carrying lots of cash to possibly make the buy,

[nibbz]

oh, heres a link of the 4 runner i want, out of my state about 4 hr drive away



http://www.autotrader.com/dealers/dd...r_id=309955769


its pretty sharp, i can live with the dash and couple paint chips on the rear fender wells,

[jetwhine]

nibbz,

Make him/her an offer of no more than $4900 out the door. You have nothing to loose except the 8 hour ride. Sometimes when you walk away is when they try to deal with you.

[fourwd1]

Originally Posted by nibbz

... is the 3.0L v6 just as ruggeed as the 3.4L v6 in third gen 4 runners?
,

No, it's not. The 3.4 is a better engine.

[fourwd1]

Go to your library and ask to see the latest copy of the NADA used car guide.
It's what dealers use to buy and sell cars. It's the industry bible.
It lists the current wholesale and retail pricing.

[nibbz]

ok thanks for ansering that...thats what i thought and read during many searches, plz understand that some of us have coorolla forums, s10 forums ect and i just like to double check info, my wifeys 94 corolla has 225000 miles and id drive it anywhere, its just that some peeps like me like to hear the same thing more than once lol ....i havent bought my 3rd gen 4 runner yet but hopefully soon, thanks