What substitute should I buy?

Not sure if it goes here, but I own a 2nd gen so redirect me if I am in the wrong place.
I dont know how soon or even if it's going to happen but recently my mother developed bad carpel tunnel and has to have surgery. At 19, I appreciate and understand everything my mom has done for me. She has carpel tunnel because she worked her ass off FOR ME. I take it upon myself to start paying my debt, that being said the Taco has to go.

I love my Taco but honestly my model (DC LB) is to much for me. I dont need the space (mainly the LB). I was considering buying a 2002 4runner Sport. We used to have a 99 SR5. My brother wrecked it 3 times and it still runs like a champ (sold it to my uncle, so I still see her now and then.) I like the sunroof and sliding rear window. The space is what I need, and the ride was rough (I dont like the bounce of our trucks) but strong. Personally I think older Toyota's still have the quality that is now lacking, so I want to buy something "old" (2000-2004). I dont really use the bed of my truck, and when I have its nothing that couldnt be done with the 4runner. I dont plan on going off roading (on purpose), but regardless of what Toyota I get I am going to MOD the absolute sh*t of it. I believe in versatility. I still want a truck, honestly as bad ass as a 2nd Gen can look, and does look, the 1st Gens (to me) are more bang for the buck, and can still look bad ass, and after paying for ^^^ I'm not going to have enough for a 2nd gen so whatever.

The Question: What would you recommend? A 1st Gen (probably 2002) or a 02 4runner Sport? What are the cons of a 4 runner? Cons of a 1st gen? What is more durable and reliable? Which has more after market parts and info? Also as I mature I'd like to have something that can be an off road vehicle, yet still be formal (but I guess that depends on mods).

All help appreciated, regardless of which I choose I'm going to stick around here. This site is great....and T4r.org doesnt seem that active..or helpful.

Yeah one doesnt have to go to far to find a better looking first gen, but this isnt bad looking either. Quite simple, semi formal.

THANKS GUYS!

 

3rd Gen 4Runner is probably your best bet. I recently got one and I love it (99 4x4). the 3rd gens are the most reliable trucks Toyota ever made, IMHO.

 

i found an 01 4runner for my girlfriend. only had 60k miles on it when she got it a year ago and she paid 8250 for it. That was a STEAL! Shop around for the old gens of 4runners with low miles. They are quality.

Only thing that was wrong with it was the upper radiator hose was leaking, needed new tires, and the shocks were shot.

So the radiator hose was easy fix, she wanted bigger tires/wheels anyways, and the rear shocks were replaced and she is waiting to do the fronts till she has more money. All in all they were things that were easily taken care of.

 

2002 is a 3rd Gen. I hear great things about their off road capabilities ( I dont know if its better than a Taco, but the 3rd Gen was one of the best out of the whole 4runner series.) So yes to a 4 runner? I would like more opinions. This has to last me another 10 years ( I plan on rebuilding the engine regardless).

 

Le bump. More opinions anyone?

 

I don't know what is best for you but good luck with everything you are dealing with.

 

I think the 84 -85 4 runners were the best out of all.

However since they are way to old to have for a daily driver, I agree the 2002's are a great truck, and seem a decent value for the dollar.

Shawn.

 

Ah thank you.

Well, That is good enough for me. I saw one of those 4 runners yesterday. The guy had it clean. Lifted with a roof rack and the whole deal. It looked amazing, but as you said its too old for me. 02 4runner is it. I will post pics when/if it happens.