New guy buying a Tacoma

Well first off, I haven't bought a Tacoma yet. I'm in the Navy and i'm coming back to the states after a year overseas looking to buy a new truck. I've had two Ford Rangers ('99 3.0L 4x4 auto, and '00 4.0L 4x4 5 spd), but it's time to upgrade i think. I still haven't decided what generation Tacoma i want but i plan to test drive both. I've read a few threads on which gen is better and i'm getting a 50/50 feeling. So here I sit in Singapore waiting for my flight back to the states to buy my truck. Any advice/ info is greatly appreciated (and go ahead and bag on the Rangers).

 

I had a 2001 ranger edge 4.0. Loved that thing. I would probably still have it if I didn't flip it. Lol. I say go second gen if you can afford it. It's nice having something newer in my opinion. But I do like the first gens too. The second gens are more comfy too.

 

welcome....

get a 2nd gen, cuz theoretically they'll last longer

 

I've owned both and definitely prefer my 2nd gen

 

I looked at both and ultimately decided on the 2nd gen. Mainly because the cab is more roomie and i was having trouble finding everything i wanted in a 1st gen.

Welcome to the site and back to the US, Good luck finding a new truck

 

The second gen is a whole new truck when compared to the first gen. IMHO, they're a good clean slate for anyone to start customizing how they want it.

When I was looking to buy a truck. I was looking for a mid-90's. I then happened to swing by the dealership, and found my baby. Bought it same day. Haven't regretted a thing.

 

Wait...Toyota is dropping the 3rd gen in 2012 right?? Just wait and buy that one lol

 

Thanks for the greetings, yea i like the styling of the 2nd gen better than the first gen, and the more powerful engine is always a plus. I've found a few 2nd gens that i'm going to look at soon. The only issue is the price of the newer truck...

 

Welcome to TW!

 

I just bought a new access cab 4.0 last week after years of driving ford rangers. i have always been a Ford guy and probably still would be if Ford would have released the new mid size ranger in the US. oh well I guess Ford lost a long time Customer by not bringing it to the States. anyway the Tacoma seems to be a pretty good truck and I like it so far. after doing some reading on here I feel pretty good about picking the tacoma

 

me too
16 years with a ranger
had to have those 4 doors (bigger family)
f-150 was just a little too big
so it was taco time
oh, Welcome from Sc!