2003 or 2009 Tacoma?

I am looking to break into the world of Tacoma's and I have narrowed it down to two for my budget and I am at a loss. One is a 2009 V6 4.0L ( I believe), 2 door extended cab, 6 spd manual with 122000 miles on it. It doesnt have a topper or rack but it has a bed cover, BF Goodrich AT tires, touchscreen Infotainment center, LED headlights, and a backup camera. Asking price $135000


While the other is a 2003 SR5 TDR 2 door extended cab, 5 spd manual, V6 3.6L with 152000 miles. Has a topper, rack on topper, ARB bumper (no winch) and AT tires and wheels from a newer tacoma. Asking price $11500

I dont care much for the infotainment center thing but the year will will give me the warranty. I do really like the extras on the 2003 but I figure I can add those on to the 2009 as I go. I'm not sure if I am missing something but I am stuck and could really use some input.

 

Welcome aboard, I have a newer model and don’t know very much about the earlier models. Best thing to do, is drive them
and have a mechanic check them out for you.

 

They're both nice, but I like the fact that the newer 4.0 has a timing chain instead of a belt. On the other hand, the older TRD should have a locking differential which is nice too. Both are good choices. Go with your gut and see which one was taken care of better.

 

Welcome! They are both very nice trucks. I think it just comes down to driving them both and choosing the one you like best.

 

Welcome to TW!!

 

Welcome to TW! Depending on what part of the country you are in rust can be a huge factor so check those frames.

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Check the frame as boogie said. Hard not to like a 1st gen but I'd probably go for the newer truck ( and 30k less miles) for that little bit extra $$.

 

I say the 09 as long as the rust isn’t present/bad. But it’s up to you they are 2 totally different looking rigs.
Welcome to the forum.