MCObray
Explorer
Currently, I own a 1999 Jeep Cherokee with some minor modifications.
'99 Jeep XJ by Obray Optics, on Flickr
As of late, I have been getting what you would call irritated with the Jeep. Now, it's been a great vehicle for me and has not left me stranded, but a lot of characteristic of the XJ are starting to turn me off. First off, the build quality lacks, aside from the powerplant (4.0L Straight-Six engine, AW4 transmission, and NP231 Transfer Case). The person who will be riding along for these car-rides and adventures, does not even really like the XJ. The interior, as in the driver and passenger are a little too confined for her liking. I much value her opinion since I want her to enjoy the experiences we will share while out and about. I still love this Jeep, but feel as if there are better applications to better suite my needs.
These factors have begin to grow on me and has tempted me to see if the grass is greener on the other side; Toyota 4Runner.
My pros: I can cruise at 65MPH on the interstate and still obtain 18+MPG, while still having a comfortable ride. I get a frame and body. World class reliability. I can run 31s stock, and 32s with a 2" lift (OME). Interior space seems to be a little bit bigger than the XJ. Rear locker can be found in specific model of a 4Runner.
My cons: Unfamiliar with ins-and-outs. High mileage vehicle with my budget. High initial purchase price, as well as cost of ownership.
My budget will be 6K-8K, which seems to put me at around a 140K-180K 4Runner. Anyone ever own a XJ, and then purchase a 4Runner? Or vis-versa?
I do realize the higher purchase price, as well as the cost of ownership, will be higher because the quality of product Toyota makes exceeds most of their competitors. Also, should I be discourage against high mileage 4Runners? I know records and receipts will be the key to finding the right one.
I browsed through the 4Runner buyers guide (timing belt, water pump, ball joints, and "strawberry milkshake" transmission fluid was all read), as well as Ih8mud, on a Forum and a lot of good information was obtained in those posts. I know this thread will be biased due to it being posted on the Toyota side of the forum, but i'm just trying to gauge real life experiences from individuals who have owned a 4Runner, more specifically the 3rd Generation model.
Thanks guys.
-Mason
'99 Jeep XJ by Obray Optics, on Flickr
As of late, I have been getting what you would call irritated with the Jeep. Now, it's been a great vehicle for me and has not left me stranded, but a lot of characteristic of the XJ are starting to turn me off. First off, the build quality lacks, aside from the powerplant (4.0L Straight-Six engine, AW4 transmission, and NP231 Transfer Case). The person who will be riding along for these car-rides and adventures, does not even really like the XJ. The interior, as in the driver and passenger are a little too confined for her liking. I much value her opinion since I want her to enjoy the experiences we will share while out and about. I still love this Jeep, but feel as if there are better applications to better suite my needs.
These factors have begin to grow on me and has tempted me to see if the grass is greener on the other side; Toyota 4Runner.
My pros: I can cruise at 65MPH on the interstate and still obtain 18+MPG, while still having a comfortable ride. I get a frame and body. World class reliability. I can run 31s stock, and 32s with a 2" lift (OME). Interior space seems to be a little bit bigger than the XJ. Rear locker can be found in specific model of a 4Runner.
My cons: Unfamiliar with ins-and-outs. High mileage vehicle with my budget. High initial purchase price, as well as cost of ownership.
My budget will be 6K-8K, which seems to put me at around a 140K-180K 4Runner. Anyone ever own a XJ, and then purchase a 4Runner? Or vis-versa?
I do realize the higher purchase price, as well as the cost of ownership, will be higher because the quality of product Toyota makes exceeds most of their competitors. Also, should I be discourage against high mileage 4Runners? I know records and receipts will be the key to finding the right one.
I browsed through the 4Runner buyers guide (timing belt, water pump, ball joints, and "strawberry milkshake" transmission fluid was all read), as well as Ih8mud, on a Forum and a lot of good information was obtained in those posts. I know this thread will be biased due to it being posted on the Toyota side of the forum, but i'm just trying to gauge real life experiences from individuals who have owned a 4Runner, more specifically the 3rd Generation model.
Thanks guys.
-Mason
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