Should I get a tacoma?

I'm a drummer, and hauling everything in my Tacoma is easy. If you have the 6ft bed, the drums will take up most of it unless you have a topper. I also have a ft wide SKB hardware case that takes up a big chunk. If you've got a topper that's level with the cab roof you can stack some stuff and probably get all drum stuff, amps and guitars in there. I've only hauled the drums in mine. Just remember if you get a double cab it'll likely be the short bed, which cuts 4 sqft of surface area out. But if you get the access cab with 6ft bed like mine, no adult will be ok with sitting in the back seat. If you get a double cab with the 6ft bed that would probably work.

If you get a topper make sure you have a way to lock it and if you have to park it loaded overnight, back it up to within inches of a wall so the tailgate can't be opened. Tacomas don't have a locking tailgate from the factory..not last time I checked.

Also be aware, the tailgate can be completely removed from this truck in less than 10 seconds. Get a hose clamp to put on the moving section (google it) or a hex key hose clamp if you want to feel pro. I think someone makes a specific lock for it, but your average opportunistic deadbeat doesn't carry a hex key so you can save yourself some cash with a hose clamp. This is for even when you're not hauling anything. People steal these tailgates and either have them crushed for cash or put them on ebay so the sucker they stole it from has to buy it back. I have a friend this just recently happened to. I think he tracked them down and whipped some ass though.

 

I had the 2.7 in my 99 prerunner,my 2010 has the 4.0..much better engine in my opinion..the 2.7 requires more throttle(and more revs) to maintain the same cruising speed,you'll feel it on long upgrades,and that negates the fuel you'd think you might save with the smaller engine.