Any thoughts on a Frontier vs a 2nd gen Tacoma?

So I’m really not seriously in the market for anything, but I’m just curious to hear some conversation on older Frontiers compared to 2nd gen Tacomas? I’m sure somebody out there has some first hand experience.

I just have a 2007 regular cab 5 lug, and I love it. Does everything I need, gets great MPGs, reliable as a rock.
But I do sometimes wish for 4x4 and either an extended or crew cab. But I’m really not interested in paying the Taco tax for something like that.

Do the old Nissans share any of that runs-forever reliability, or would a cheap, higher mileage example just be buying into a world of headache?

 

My 07 frontier has been rock solid. 160k

downsides are aircraft carrier class turning radius and a frame that hangs down a bit low if you off-road.

 

2005-2009 had a number of issues. 2010+ are very solid.

Look for:
Coolant cross contamination (05-09 Auto)
Timing chain whine (05-09)
Leaking rear axle seals (05-21)
Paint adhesion issues (white & blue mainly)
Excessive rock chips
Low oil pressure at idle (05-09 V6)
Clutch wear or chatter (V6, 6spd manual)
Any warning lights. Scan for proper codes. Some modules are not cheap to replace.

I've had my 2010 Pro-4x 6spd since 2015. Only repairs have been an axle seal and some bad paint in a few small areas. Awesome truck overall if you don't mind a basic interior.

 

My father in law had one. Crew cab short bed. I can’t get over that turning radius.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/2007-regular-cab-4x4-2-7l-lockers-gears-and-35s.720112/

4x4, good modifications, good price

 

Frontier is solid, BIL has one with ~20k miles, and I put about 500 miles on a rental a couple of months ago (including some off-road).

Drives like a solid truck, a lot like my old 2001 Ranger. Similar gas mileage, too. The Taco is smoother and has a much, much nicer interior (quality and space).

 

Thanks for all the input. I actually ended up (accidentally) buying a 2001, first gen Tundra. Extended cab, only 4x2, but I came across it on Facebook market for way too cheap to pass up.
Gotta a lot of fixing up to do, but it looks like I’m staying in the Toyota family after all.

 

Those are sweet trucks, too. The back seat is probably roomier than the Frontier crew cab, honestly.