Looking to buy a 3rd gen montero

[clmrt]

I would say you gain styling with an 01-02. Every clean 01-02 G3 I see I want.

 

[montypower]

If it's the right price and has good maintenance records I would buy it. The only thing you really lose with the 01 is styling and the 3.8.

There are actually other differences as well. 01-02 may have 4 speed transmission (XLS model). They actually sit higher (more ground clearance). No traction control.

Search out of state to find a nice one. I traveled nearly 3,000 miles to get mine.

 

[Eric M]

Right, but the that's a Limited and the 01-02 will probably have an LSD. Had no idea they had a higher ride height, though. Makes the NM more attractive, IMO.

 

[MascotRejct]

I see everyone is advising the 03+ but in my area for under $10k I'm just not finding them. There's a few 01-02. And I found one that's 01 limited with 165k miles. Too many miles?

I bought my 01 limited with 209K on the odometer for $3600. Promptly dropped about 1K in various parts not knowing if the timing belt had been re-done or not, valve stem seals, head gaskets, cam seals etc. Runs pretty good now, and the interior was in very good shape. Its a little low on power (mostly when pulling my boat up a hill) but other than that I love it. I'm hoping I can get at least 80-100K out of it before I upgrade to a newer truck.

 

[Mad Al]

Thanks for the info. The price is well under budget. So I would be able to take care of some small issues if there is any. I'm probably gonna go check it out in person this weekend. Hopefully all goes well