I am getting my first Tacoma!!!

I made up my mind to pick up a 1st gen Tacoma, somewhere between the years of 98-04. I am looking into a 2WD prerunner 2.7L, for a daily driver. My question is, would I be able to go out on a weekend like once a month and drive off the beaten path, even though its just a 2x4? Also does it make a difference if the truck's tranny is automatic or manuel to do a bit of off roading? On top of that does it matter if the truck has TRD or SR5? I have been reading that you can get better quality parts then what the TRD has to offer and cheaper or, does it even matter since I will not be such a hardcore off roader? Any and all info would be great, I am just trying to gather as much info as I and enjoy my purchase. Now that i think about it, I also mt. bike, what kind of attachments or set ups can be used to hook my bike up.

 

Welcome aboard. A skilled driver in a 4x2 can go almost anywhere reasonable.

 

I consider myself a reasoned driver, but I am making the change from driving a sedan to a pickup. So ill put myself as a beginner.

 

The prerunner is still a capable truck. The TRD package will add a rear locker, which may help in offroad situations as well as billstein shocks and struts, which have a great reputation.

 

Both Roland and Toy4life have made good comments, I would lean towards a TRD with the locker rear end, so your once a month doesn't become a never do that again ! I really love the looks of the 02-04 models, and don't forget about a good set of tires.