2012 with 32k miles or 2020 with 90k miles? Both same price.

Just trying to make sure I understand. You've agreed to finance the 2012 already, and have a 7 day window to return it for no added fees or anything? Is that window dependent on your agreement to finance something else from them (in this case, the 2020)? Because if not, I'd return the 2012, and pursue other options entirely (meaning not looking at tacomas in the 30-35k range). No shame on being limited in financing options, we've all had to do what we have to do at some point or another in life, but IF you can help it, taking on a 35k loan doesn't sound like the winning option. IF its your only option, then keep the lower mileage 2012, because its slightly less money owed, and less mileage - it likely gives you a little longer retention, and easier to resell should you consider other options in the future. Take all of this as just another internet opinion that's no more "right" than the next guy's.

 

While that 2012 looks super clean and has low mileage, you shouldn't have to pay more than ~$27k for it. Paying an extra 5 grand wouldn't sit right with me. The 2020 has really high mileage for the year model. I'm in the neither camp as well, but if the only choices are one or the other, I'd go with the 2012.

 

I typically love finding low mileage older gems, but inevitably they all require a lot of work before they are daily driver reliable. Hoses, belts, weather-stripping age and sometime need replaced. I have a low mileage Mustang and the valve guides shrunk and started to let a little oil past so I get that puff of smoke on start up. Car just sits too much in the offseason when the weather is poor up here in the PNW.

But once you get all the little bugs sorted, you have a great low tech, low miles truck that should last you a long time if you choose to keep the 2012.

 

If both are well maintained then frankly age is at least as important of a facror as mileage as things still wear and age when the truck is sitting there not being used. I would go with the newer truck.

 

I'd go with the newer one as well.

 

Damn that 2012 is clean. An aftermarket head unit would solve most of your modern day amenities.
Lighting systems are also easily updated.
The updated seats in the 3rd gen are not comfortable; that’s why lots of us have seat jackers.