Best model for off road mods

I'm trying to get into the off-road world but I can't find the right model Tacoma for the job because there are so many options. My goal is to build a truck that I can take across the country off-road. I'm looking for a model with the best-modding capability so I can do practically anything to it including an engine swap for a 5.7 v8. Cost doesn't really matter because I'm trying to find an old one that I can rebuild so really all the money I spend will be on rebuilding it rather than buying the truck itself. Though depending on your response this is subject to change. I have found a 1997 4x4 2.7 v4 Tacoma that is nearby and it is completely stripped on the interior with some modification to the engine but I'm pretty sure it doesn't run considering it has been sitting for 3 years in the middle of a field. My profile pic is that truck. (once uploaded that is)

 

stick a bored and blown 5VZFE in that 1997

 

Anything is possible with enough cutting and welding.

Model doesn’t really matter in that aspect.

With Tacomas, it’s more about body style, size, and any widgets you want that come stock.

Myself, I’m a best gen, I mean, 1st gen guy for offroading. I like the smaler size. The new trucks are just getting redonk huge for a “mini” truck. Even wih my double cab, I can fit places that a 2nd or 3rd gen cant fit. If you don’t drive tighter trails, that doesnt matter as much.

The newer trucks have a lot more widgets and wizbangs like traction control, a-track, quieter interior. Which are nice, but nothing beats a good set of tires, lockers and driver experience.

But there are tons of “mods” available for all these trucks. You can throw your money at any of them.

If you want a trail rig, that stripped 97 (not a “v4” btw, lol) would be a good base, assuming it has a solid rust free frame (that can be repaired, however). But honestly, you could spend another grand or so and find a truck that is running, and more complete, and a better start. If you dont know what you want/need, start with a complete truck and mod from there. It’s really only the people who are highly experienced that are looking for a bare bones skeleton to start their build because they know exactly what they want.