Is this a good deal

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/share/243977999

I am wondering if this is a good deal and when these tacomas become alot of money to fix. If this is past the reliable point, I could build a new engine. What would you say about this tacoma?

 

From reading this forum, I believe it is a somewhat desired configuration: V-6, manual, reg cab, with quite a few options. As far as price, man, that's a tough call. If it's been well treated, that mileage is not too big of a concern. If not,.... worst case you can get a used replacement engine for around $2000 plus install if you can't do it yourself.

You do need to verify the frame condition. That's step one. It's currently in California, but where else has it lived? Carfax?

Older trucks do require regular maintenance $$$. I think many of us in 1st gen TW see it as less than the monthly payment, full coverage insurance, higher cost repl parts, worry about every little scratch, ... than if we had a newer model truck.

Last Summer I bought a wrecked 95 with 255,000. When I got it driveable, I realized the motor is still in very good condition. Should last another 100,000.

 

You know the old saying "If you have to ask....."

If it was a 'good deal', you'd know it.

Are you willing to take an average deal? That's what it is. Good deals are not what you set out looking for, they come along.

 

Now that is so TRUE! In many cases, it takes months to figure out whether its good or bad deal.

 

Yes. That's even after you've bought it.

Hell, sometimes not until after you've sold it.

Unfortunately Tacomas have really moved past 'good deals' and are priced according to new replacements. trucks used to be pretty much discarded after 10 yrs. Certainly after 15. I used to give away vehicles that made it that far.

 

I don't think it is a good deal, and you should think about the repair cost after that. I bought 2 gen 2WD at 140k miles. I fixed it myself and here is the repair list, not include alignment, broken plastic parts and front wheel bearings placed by the previous owner :

 

Eh regular maintenance will be necessary no matter how you look at it. Thats a super rare configuration that i’ve been looking for in CA and other close states and haven’t been able to find one in a long time. Its my dream setup to find one of those and throw my SC on it like @1997tacomav6. Its worth it if you want that reg cab v6 but you could find a cheaper option and i wouldn’t worry TOO much bout the miles thats right where my engines at and it runs like a champ.
edit: just noticed it is in CA! thats a great price in CA for that setup if i’m being honest. All comes down to the frame if i were in your shoes.

 

No lie if that was local I’d buy it. If you can get it at 6,000 to 6,300 that’s a really fair deal considering the body condition and rarity of a v6 single cab.

Plus if you don’t like it it’s an easy re sell

 

^Also very true you’ll have no problem selling it if you wanna.

 

6000 is a fair price since you don't know how its mechanical condition is. Ask an experienced mechanic come to check if the truck was not abused and still in good shape.

 

Tacomas are always overpriced, and I previously worked at a stealership so I’m gonna have to say the price sucks, especially with that many miles!

However, if the frame is good and you can talk them down on the price...

 

The regular maintenance cost will add up really quick if the truck has never been serviced or maintained. If you have time and can diy, I am really sure it is not a problem. Unfortunately some don't.

 

Times 2 .. but once all the maintenance is done you’ll really enjoy a 1st gen. Espically this one you’ll have a hard time finding one just like that again

 

Whats better for overlanding a manual or auto trans

 

What he said.

 

With that many miles, if the suspension hasn't been serviced you can count on needing to replace shocks, coils, and leafs. Just figure that into your anticipated maintenance too.

 

Haha, my list has not ended yet. I am saving money to replace power steering pump and rack & pinion. Compared with other Toyota models I have been repaired, Tacoma parts (except engine, transmission and differential) did not last as long as I expect.

 

Mine only had 130,000 miles but it’s the age that I believe got my parts. Don’t get me wrong they lasted a long time so I stuck with oem. Replaced rack and pinion, swapped oem pinion bushing with energy polymer ones, outer toe rods, lower ball joints, front shoe and rotors, stabilizer bushing and end links, a,c blower, timing belt and water pump, spark plug and wires, pcv valve and grout , radiator . Still lack a new muffler and it’s over

 

I always wanted a regular cab, v6 with a manual transmission. Good amount of miles on this one.

 

If i bought this would it be a good project vehicle and would it be easy to learn manual on?