Here I stand at the crossroads edge…

[Danimal]

If you need a truck bed, the Taco or Tundra would be a good choice, but I personally like the country of origin on the 4Runner better

I haven't had any build quality issues with my 2011 Tacoma that I would blame the California assembly plant for. My 1998 4Runner was built in Japan and I would rate the quality very similar between the two. What experiences have you had that makes you prefer Japanese manufactured Toyotas? I also believe that overall, the interior of my 2011 uses far superior materials than my 1998 4Runner Limited. The cabin is also much quieter.

Then again, I haven't owned my truck for very long.

Dan

 

[rickashay]

IMHO the 3rd gen is a great platform and I even prefer it to the 1st gen DC Taco. As others have stated, the bed is too small and I like the 5link rear suspension more than leafs but I guess that depends on how you use it. If you need the extra carrying capacity, get a small utility trailer than is used for those specific hauling purposes. When I retire my 3rd gen, I will either be getting another 3rd gen (lower miler from southern states) or a LC 80 or 100. A well setup cargo area in a SUV is replaceable IMO cause you can lock it up and walk away without worrying.

I really like the look of the 2nd Gen. Tacomas but I just don't think they are as well built as the Japanese made Toyotas. The 4.0L v6 on the newer 4runners and Taco is a definite advantage but you can throw a S/C on the 1st gen Taco or 3rd gen T4R and with the right setup you can get 16-18mpg (so I have read while doing research on the subject, no first hand experience)... There are issues with all vehicles but I think the newer Tacoma's just have more:

2nd Gen. Taco's:
- idler pulley issues
- wheel bearings (expensive to replace and non-serviceable.)
- LCA's have lower BJ's attached so when they need replacement, you buy whole new LCA
- newer Toyota paint is JUNK - chips like crazy
- "C" channel frame (not as strong)
- feel very "plastic-y" to me

If you need space, moderately wheel, and want more power: 100 Series LC??

 

[Owyhee H]

2nd Gen. Taco's:
- idler pulley issues
- wheel bearings (expensive to replace and non-serviceable.)
- LCA's have lower BJ's attached so when they need replacement, you buy whole new LCA
- newer Toyota paint is JUNK - chips like crazy
- "C" channel frame (not as strong)
- feel very "plastic-y" to me

If you need space, moderately wheel, and want more power: 100 Series LC??

This info on the 2nd gen taco is not really correct.
-The lower ball joints are not connected to the LCA, they unbolt at the end. No need to replace the entire LCA or even remove the LCA to replace ball joints.
-I believe that the first gen taco also have unserviceable front wheel bearings which have to be pressed on and off.
-As for the c-channel "weaker" frame, it is only a c-chanel for the rear of the rig. I have heard of no problems with the 2nd gen frames and I know that a LOT of first gens needed reinforcing, there is a discussion about the frames in this section of the forum. Time will tell but the trucks that have been around for 6+years there dosent appear to be too many issues with the rear frame strength.
As far as build I really like the first gen size and build but the 2nd gen is way more comfortable. There is clearly more sound deadening in the 2ng gen and the size makes it more roomy. I dont think you can really go wrong with either, they are all Toyotas after all.

 

[rickashay]

This info on the 2nd gen taco is not really correct.
-The lower ball joints are not connected to the LCA, they unbolt at the end. No need to replace the entire LCA or even remove the LCA to replace ball joints.
-I believe that the first gen taco also have unserviceable front wheel bearings which have to be pressed on and off.
-As for the c-channel "weaker" frame, it is only a c-chanel for the rear of the rig. I have heard of no problems with the 2nd gen frames and I know that a LOT of first gens needed reinforcing, there is a discussion about the frames in this section of the forum. Time will tell but the trucks that have been around for 6+years there dosent appear to be too many issues with the rear frame strength.
As far as build I really like the first gen size and build but the 2nd gen is way more comfortable. There is clearly more sound deadening in the 2ng gen and the size makes it more roomy. I dont think you can really go wrong with either, they are all Toyotas after all.

Then I stand corrected on the LBJ item.

As per the wheel bearings: the 2nd gen Tacoma has a sealed wheel bearing that nees to be replaced once issues arise where the first gens you can at least re-pack with grease and therefore are deamed serviceable.

I too, realize of the issues with the first gens frames in the rear, with a simple weld on reinforcement the issue is corrected. I still think in the long run the first gen frames are/will be stronger (negating the rust issue). I am interested in reading up on the 2nd gen frames and their strengths, ill have to search that mentioned thread out...But, as you said, time will tell and they are all Toyota's and great trucks.

 

[4runnerteq]

My say is to go with a 4th gen runner. I am blessed enough to own a 97 runner with Sonoran Steel lift & 285/75 BFGs, and a 04 4runner limited v8. While I do love the 97, I also loved the 91 before that. Wife drives the 04. Awesome ride,great engine, not necessarily talkin about power here but reliability, 4.7 is virtually bullet proof. I agree with some who said get a utility trailer. Or have a good friend with a trailer. I also have a 92 4wd p/u in the family,but only really NEED a truck one or two times a year. Having my traveling & camping gear in the cab with me is great. good luck. hope you find a deal.

 

[NM-Frontier]

For less than $15k, you can pick up a lower mileage (95k-130k) 100 Series Land Cruiser.

I know the Land Cruiser was not on your list but I have to X2 on this one. I have a Taco and a FJ60 but if I had to have just one It would be the UZJ 100. Comfortable for the fam and if you can get one with the locker(98-99)they are just as capable as a Taco or 4Runner.