My wife and I have decided to purchase a used 4Runner, with somewhere around 60,000 miles (2005/2006). We've found a number of them that we've liked, and are trying to decide whether to get the V6 or V8. Living in Colorado with the high altitude, power can be affected vs. sea level, however, I've heard that the V6 may have enough power for what we need, but wanted to get some opinions.
I'm not looking to open a V6 vs. V8 debate, just want to know if anyone has driven the V6 at high altitude (in the mountains) and if it has enough power for what we need (maybe taking a few people up with us, but not towing anything now or in the future). Most of the cars we like are out of state, as it's difficult to find used 4Runners out here in our price range.
If the V6 will suffice at this altitude (e.g. can pass up hill on our way into the mountains), we will go that direction, otherwise, we can opt for the V8.
I live in Colorado and do a lot of mountain driving. Having driven both the V6 and my current 08 V8. I have to say if you can find a V8 grab it. You will not notice the loss in gas milage as much as the loss in power.
Having said that the 4runner is a great truck I'm on my 5th and you will not be disapointed if you find a really nice V6 and decide to buy it. Bottom line is don't get tunnel vison just looking at the engine size. Look for how well it has been taken care of and listed maintence. Drive as many as you can Colorado has a ton of 4runners around. Good luck with your hunt.
My wife and I have decided to purchase a used 4Runner, with somewhere around 60,000 miles (2005/2006). We've found a number of them that we've liked, and are trying to decide whether to get the V6 or V8. Living in Colorado with the high altitude, power can be affected vs. sea level, however, I've heard that the V6 may have enough power for what we need, but wanted to get some opinions.
I'm not looking to open a V6 vs. V8 debate, just want to know if anyone has driven the V6 at high altitude (in the mountains) and if it has enough power for what we need (maybe taking a few people up with us, but not towing anything now or in the future). Most of the cars we like are out of state, as it's difficult to find used 4Runners out here in our price range.
If the V6 will suffice at this altitude (e.g. can pass up hill on our way into the mountains), we will go that direction, otherwise, we can opt for the V8.
Thanks in advance for any help you can provide!
Unless you invest in serious modifications, the V8 has more torque, and at lower RPM's. I find this very comforting in the mountains including everything from driveways to passing on hiways. That said, another consideration is that the V8 comes with Fulltime 4WD rather than on-demand. I.e., it has been designed to run in 4WD all the time including on pavement, which can also be comforting on 'iffy' wet or snowy roads where 4WD on a part-time 4WD vehicle might damage your drive train since they are meant to be in 4WD only 'off pavement'.
Snowy
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2008 4Runner SR5, 4.7L V8 w/Overland Warehouse (Radflo) Coilovers up front, RevTek spacer/xlong shocks rear, ARB Deluxe Winch Bull Bar up front w/Warn M8000, VIAIR 300p, and DuraTrac 285/70r17's on Procomps
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