Good question...there is actually a thread I started a year or so ago when I was contemplating the switch from the LC to the 4th ten 4runner. Check it out. They are really just two different vehicles. The more time I spend in the 4runner, I like it more and more. My 80 will always give me fond memories, as I really loved that truck.
We just did a 4 day trip to Southern Utah in the 4runner. We averaged just over 15mpg with a box and basket on top (I've got 2 kids) and to have the v8 power is awesome. The seats aren't as comfortable as the cruiser, and I had to be much more judicious with my packing as there is less room in the 4runner but the tradeoffs are worth it.
I am thinking of ordering a drawer from Adventure Trailers to mount my fridge slide to, and that can hold all of the 'regular stuff' that I keep in there, and utilize the space a bit more. I also just added two more Bundu Boxes to make the packing more uniform-4 of the same size should be easier. Overall, I love it...I didn't put the winch on there as it was going to be sold with the cruiser, and I am now debating on wether or not to do it....I may just add the ARB sooner and call it good. I have rarely ever found I needed a winch.
Additionally, I found I wasn't needing the heavy duty 4wd the cruiser offered on many trips, and I was lusting after more power and fuel economy. We are now on the hunt for a 2008+ Tundra with the 5.7 liter. It is going to eat the same amount of gas per gallon as the cruiser, but it will have 300 + h.p. to show for it. I am confident that the two trucks in our family will work well for us.
