Why Tacoma?

I want a second vehicle for commuting in the winter and for towing a 3000-4000lbs camping trailer in the summer. I am in the market for a Tacoma because I want something that will carry 4 adults, tow at least 5000lbs, not get stuck in wet campsites and is preferably a standard. I do not want a full size truck; they are too big for everyday use, no fun to drive and all automatics. However, it sucks being in the market for a used Tacoma because they hold their value so well. I've found a few 06-08 TRD Access Cab 6 speeds that were reasonably priced ($14-16K) but have yet to find a TRD Double Cab 5ft 6 speed for the right price. Either they have 220,000kms or the seller wants $25,000.

I'd consider a Frontier but they aren't available in a crew cab, short box, Pro-4X manual (at least not in Canada.) The other option that has recently caught my attention is a BMW X5. '02-06 4.4i are plentifull for $10-15K. Even better, you can buy a 2003 4.6is with a 340hp V8 for $13,000. Sure; it's an automatic, it's not built for off roading and the maintenance will be higher than a Toyota but it handles beautifully on road, does 0-60 in 6.5 seconds and it has all the luxury items that the Tacoma is so lacking.

 

to go back in time, how could a ranger be compared to a taco? now, i've only seen the torsion-bar front end and the control-arms, axles, and steering were laughable. did they really beef em up to toyota standards when they went to coils? i doubt it.

the only thing ford has done well for in the offroad community was the 9" rear. which is a 3rd member type axle. similar to what toyota has always used

 

There is a reason why they stopped production on the ranger.. haha

 

I like my Tacoma but for most people I'd kinda think Tundra...

 

Before I bought my Tacoma, I was offered $30388 for a 2012 Silverado 4wd 5.3l V8 20" wheels, double cab (mrsp $40888). I test drove it ansd almost bought it. I was too BIG and I hate the steering wheel mounted shifter and NO camera. Since I don't tow and the Tacoma fits me better. Also, I used to have a 2002 4Runner SE for 8.5 years without any issues (only 1 set of brake pads, tires, and wiper blades).

 

turbocoupe, I'm sure you could sell your Taco for probably 5 used Rangers, why don't you if you hate it that much?

 

what's stopping ya?

 

I'm meaning...

If I'd rather have a new F-150 over a new Tacoma...and I was currently driving a Tacoma...

I'd be in the market for an F-150.

 

I've owned 3 rangers and 2 tacos. Ranger is built extremely well, and performs well off road due to it being so light. Hardly ever use 4wd unless going in to some muck shit. That being said, I never owned another one after owning my first taco. I don't think the "legendary" 4.0 of the ranger could even compare to the reliability of the 1GR the taco has. Rangers are a dime a dozen for a reason, same as F150s and Silverados.

 

I'm sure you're totally right.

Every one of those tacomas sitting on the used car lots are there because they are POSs and not because someone needed a full size or didn't need a truck or ran into financial issues...

And if the Ranger is so "bullet-proof" and will last forever, why did you own 6?

 

One for each brain cell

 

Rangers are notorious for craking there frames so you saying the ranger has tough frames you lost all creditablity, for one its the same frame built in the 1970's and havent changed it since. It crumples under the slighest stress. Please just sell your tacoma and be done with it quit bitching about it no one is forcing you to keep it. What you bring to the table here on tacomaworld is nothing i cant get from a screaming baby.

 

"better built truck" that has been discontinued in the US. cool story bro.

 

I didn't spend 30k on a new truck. I will admit,I tried a ranger. Biggest piece of shit I've owned. Traded it in for a new 97 Tacoma.

Just sayin.

 

just seems that if something is bullet proof and should last forever it shouldn't need replacing, that's all.

 

My first pickup, Tacoma. why?
Pros:
1. Reliability
2. Awesome Looks
3. Drove a 98 4runner limited for 200k miles. No issues other than small gas tank.
4. Perfect Size
Cons:
1. Wish it were built and assembled in Japan b/c workers take pride in their Company and Workmanship.
2. My friends call me a Red Neck.

 

What are you doing here or driving one? Read up about the rangers BTW just cause you driven 6 of them(weird reason why you would go threw 6 rangers) doesnt mean encyclopedia is going to go after you about your knowlegde on Rangers.

 

I concur.

 

because nobody else could build anything better.