2nd Gen or 3rd Gen 4Runner for TDI Swap

LifeOverland

Adventurer
So I've got a great running '95 Land Cruiser (non locked) that I love, but I've also got an '01 VW TDI that's having transmission issues. I bought the VW for $600 and it looks like I'll get about one year out of it, pretty good lifespan. I'd really like to put the 1.9L TDI in the Cruiser, but from what I've read it's probably not the best idea. So I've turned to the 4Runners. For what I do, the Land Cruiser really is overkill and I just need to come to terms with it! I think if I had something more fuel friendly I'd actually get out more.

Which would be best for an expedition platform? From what I've researched the 3rd Gen has coils in the front while the 2nd has torsion bars. What's the difference/better?
The Acme Adapters will bolt the VW TDI motor to the 22R transmissions so that points me to the 2nd Gen unless I also want to swap a tranny into a 3rd Gen from a 22R powered truck. Would it be worth it? I'd much prefer a 5speed but have only had autos off road (FJ62 and FZJ80), what do people prefer for expo type stuff?

Is there another vehicle I'm overlooking?

Feel free to post some Expo built 4Runners and if you want to trade it for a Land Cruiser let me know!
 

PirateMcGee

Expedition Leader
that 1.9l isn't the most gutsy motor when it's put in a SUV, I would go with the second gen with a 22re; However, this can be very difficult to find and you should expect to pay about 3-4k for one. Unless you can find one with a blown motor (unlikely). The 3rd gen will be far more work than it's worth.

Do you need 4 doors? If not a first gen 4runner will be much easier to find.
 

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