Newb, can't decide what to get!

Hey guys, I'm a prospective owner trying to figure out what I should get! I've been looking at Tacomas for a while and after finally selling my F350 I can buy one. The dilemma I'm having is: a) buy new, b) buy a used, lightly modified one, c) buy a stock higher mileage one and have money left over to play with.

I know I want a double cab, trd off road, tow package at a minimum. And then 3" lift, 285/75/16 tires, bumper, skid plates - just enough for tackling some backcountry camping trips.

So what do you think the best use of my money is? I'm amazed at how well these trucks hold their value - that's what's making this decision tough. I also live in Minnesota where everything rusts so I'd want to go outstate if buying a higher mileage one which is problematic because I'd also want to personally inspect it closely (I'm picky about my cars).

I come from a stage rally background so building and spending ridiculous amounts of money on vehicles isn't anything new to me but I'm ready to slow down a bit now. These are the two cars I've built and raced over the past 6 years:

ps, the white one is for sale if you want a car that's nationally competitive in Rally America . The blue one played pinball at 90mph through the trees

 

I'd buy used with mods if that's what you are going to do anyways. A stock lightly used and stock modified Tacoma are going to be very close in price.

 

You obviously know a thing or two about working on cars/trucks. Personally I would recommend that you buy new-stock if you plan on keeping it more than a few years. I enjoy modifying my vehicles but can't stand repairing or replacing modifications done by other people. With your racing background I'm sure you'll know what kind of modifications you want to make after extensive research. Can't wait to see what kind of changes you make. Rally-4x4-long travel-thingamajig.

 

Agreed I did that and im planning to keep mine forever. I absolutely love my tacomas won't buy anything else.

 

With the high resale value new and used are only separated by a few $K in some cases. Buy new and RUST free. Mod as needed, although a stock Taco is a very capable vehicle Welcome to TW!