true advantage of 09-10 vs older 2nd gens.

Just for the record ...

Depending on what model and specific features you're after, you may not have to limit yourself to one or another side of the 2009 model year in the used market.

The VSC/TRAC system was available as an option going back to the 2nd generation's introduction in 2005. The side / curtain airbags were available as an option on Double Cabs (only) going back to 2005.

 

It depends what you or your dealer ordered. In '08 you could get locker, mechanical LSD, or the VSC/auto LSD system. I have the VSC/auto LSD and side airbags on my '08 4x4.

 

i geuss its ok if your a rookie a haven't driven 4wdrives , i wouldn't have it 2 much crap 2 go bad.

 

I say the stability control systems are a major improvement to the RWD handling of the Tacoma. This is a part time 4wd vehicle - one you don't want to leave in 4wd unless needed. In my case, most of the roads around here may be dry in winter, but in shaded areas have snowpack or icy conditions and the stability control works really well to prevent situations where my old 86 4Runner would have fishtailed with a loss of traction. The technology of VSC / TRAC and (in the TRD) A-TRAC of the 09-10 is pretty awesome. I looked at some 2006s - 2008s but it was definitely worth it to spend the extra money (since in CO resale values are so damn high the difference wasn't very much) to just bite the bullet for new.

 

BTW vehicle stability control is mandated standard equipment for all "light duty vehicles" by 2011 anyway ... and it is one mandate that the auto manufacturers and especially insurance companies are both actually applauding. Is it more to go wrong? Maybe. But they said that about power windows too, and truth be told the only window mechanism I've ever broken was a manual one in my 1981 Celica.