Which truck would you choose?

All things be equal, and no chest thumping based on what you have:

2009 2WD DC Pre-runner 10k miles $21k
2006 4WD AC Manual transmission 96k mikes $12k

Use it for work (light construction/light remodeling)
Live in western NY

Btw-is rust to be expected on the bottom inside of the tailgate for the older model above? Does this frame look like it should as well? Salty roads? Recalls?

 

Depends if you need 4x4 or not and DC or not.

Seeing you are in NY, I would probably go with a 4x4 truck. Not sure about pricing, but up here, the AC for 12K with that mileage would be a decent price. Depending if the Prerunner is 5`or 6`bed, I would prefer if it was 6` if you need to haul stuff around for construction. AC will of course be 6`.

The frame seems to have quite a bit of rust. I would be careful with that. There are a few horror stories of 2nd gen frame rust issues. Mine is and 07 and looks way better.

Anyway just figured I start and offer my 2c.

 

4x4

 

The double cab if you take a bunch of guys with you to work. The access if you carry more supplies and would need a larger bed. 4WD is a plus also.

 

4x4, but I'd find an auto, not a manual. Just a personal choice.
If you live in NY, you probably want 4wd with the winters you get.

 

4x4

 

the 4wd

 

Personally I'd go with the lower miles and newer truck. But like everyone says it really depends on how you're gonna use it.

 

4x4, plus 96000 mikes is a good deal for that price.

 

That's a lot of mikes

 

4x4

 

4x4 and 6 foot bed. if use for haul stuff for work, I got AC 2012 6speed.. no issue. and v6 is good to have

 

OP, did you pick one of those two yet, or are you still looking?

 

Waiting to hear about a job before I make the decision. The rust issue makes me hesitant on the 4X4, But I like the idea of not having a high car payment.

 

The picture you attached of the rusty frame isn't bad yet but will need to be coated soon or else it could be a problem. Check the frame rails futher toward the front to make sure you don't have any more serious rust spots.

All things being equal, you need to make the decison as to whether or not you really need 4wd or not and also how many people you need to carry on a day to day basis. If you need a 4wd double cab then keep looking. 4wd and cab size are not things you will be happy with if you settle on them now. FWIW, I think the pre-runner is way overpriced for a 3 yr old, 2wd pickup.

 

Ok, I see. Good luck, hope it works out for you.

I'm surprised nobody comented on the frame rust on the 4x4. I'm no expert, but my 07 looks way better than that one pictured.