88 vs 94

Just sold a dirt bike and some other random parts and gear. Also decided between myself and my little brother that he's going to keep his beater through college instead of me helping him upgrade to something better. That said I have always wanted an old project car/truck and have been considering getting something to keep me busy this summer. This by no means implies that I will for sure as I'm liking the size of my savings right now and knocking another big chunk of my current payment is always an option. But whether I purchase now or later I really want an older Tacoma to play with.

I really like the '88 body style, engine, etc but they're hard to come by in good condition AND for sale

I'm also entertaining the thought of getting a '94 for newer/availability etc. . .


For anyone who knows these older pickups better than a young tike like me, could you help me out a bit. Again, yes, I am doing research on both, on my own. I also really like to hear what fellow TWers have to say. I'd love to have an '88 in good condition! But settling for a '94 or the like wouldn't break my heart either. I'd buy anywhere in between if I found it in the right condition for the right price. Just wanted some expertise on those two generations, or specific years.

Anything I should consider in my search?

 

IMHO 89-95 models are way nicer and have almost the same drive train I thought as a 88.

Same engines and trans for sure, not sure on the frame and suspension.

I had an 89 single cab 4x4 with the 22re and 5 speed.. it was a beast, had it for 5 years and is still going strong.

 

Thanks man, I guess I should also throw it out there that if anyone is looking to sell said year(s) of Tacoma feel free to PM me

 

Lol, funny you just made this thread. I was considering making one myself. I actually just found a nice 94 Tacoma Reg Cab 4wd on craigslist, from the pics it looks in good shape. However, the mileage isnt listed so who knows... But, I am not really familiar with these model years either. Is there anything to look out for, aside from normal wear and tear on such an old vehicle?

 

Non-maintained v6 had some problems. The 4 is bulletproof though

 

I would imagine since its a reg cab, that it would only have the 4 banger, correcto?

 

If your looking to find a an older car you gotta expect mileage is always high you won't find a truck that old with low miles

 

I never said I expected it too be low. I just know, often times when mileage isn't listed it tends to be extremely high. Which isn't a huge issue though as long as the price is right. And I've always wanted a older style regular cab so maybe this one will be it...

 

If I would todo it all over again I would of bought an old pick up with the solid axle

 

This is the one listed on craigslist. Guy is asking $3200 OBO... Hopefully I'll be able to check it out tomorrow

 

Looks to be in good shape. If you find any within a state or so of Nebraska or South Dakota let me know man.

Would LOVE an 88 body style but those 94s are much more prevalent

 

Absolutely beautiful

 

What was the last year of solid front axles? '86?

 

"85".

 

'Nam

 

Huh? ^

 

i thought solid axles ended in 85? oh well. OP: get which ever one has a solid axle.

 

Those years were kind of my range, low to high. I'd get an '85 if I found a good one but I've been looking and I'm thinking it's far more likely to find a 90s pickup.

In no hurry though, I will bide my time and search

Also have no problem throwing in anything I feel like if/when I get this. If at some point I feel I could use some lockers and solid axle. . . So be it, that's the point of the truck

 

For sure, these go for only a few grand. Leaves lots of room for goodies

 

I saved this pic for the front n rear bumpers and flare guards

Don't even have this toy yet, dunno if I ever will, but I've got plans all the same haha a guy can dream can't he?