2002/4 vs 2007

Hey everyone,

Going through a divorce and need to eventually sell off my 4x4 Ford E350 which I'm DD'ing at 10mpg for the moment. Need a second vehicle to bridge the gap between it and something else after things settle out. I've got a 4yo son 50/50 and my dog is premarital so he stays with me full-time. Like to camp, mtn bike, ski, fish and star gaze here in Colorado. I-70 to the mountain roads and BC ski routes will be common as well as mountain biking off the peak to peak

Looking to spend less than $13k as I can pay cash and avoid car payments, Double Cab, 4x4. That will leave me enough money for tires and any immediate repairs that might be needed. Be great if it had less than 175k miles. Manual tranny in a 2007 is possible, and I avoid the 05/06 motor mount issues.

I've owned 4 Toyota's over the years but am not as much of an expert as some of you out there. Always had a 4 banger in the trucks but did have the 4.0 V6 in the 4Runner. Since I need a double cab I know I'm limited to the V6.

If I really like the truck I can imagine keeping it long-term and outfitting it for some easy overland travel - will be keeping my solar set-up and 450Ah house battery, fridge, and ARB Twin Air Compressor and bringing it over to the next vehicle.

Thanks for any thoughts you might have on which year/gen to get. There's a 2004 TRD with 146K near me through personal sale that I think I could get for $10,500k as it has some paint issue and a worn out windshield. Leer topper too. 2007 SR5 with 160K going for $12,500 at a dealer - cosmetic issues too.

 

I would say take both for a drive and see which you feel best about. If you're looking for something to get you to those spots in the woods, and not worried about towing the 1st gen will make that easier. The 4.0 2nd gen has plenty of power for hauling and towing. Check both for rust. I will say if you go for the 2nd gen the auto tranny will be more reliable than the 6 speed manual for the long haul.

 

Yeah, it does just come down to how I feel about driving that particular truck. Will do!