Looking for a truck. May have I some contructive feedback?

I recently sold my 3rd gen tacoma and got a GX 460. Mainly because I have 4 kids now.

However, for most of my adult life, I driven a Manual transmission Truck. After selling my MT Tacoma last year, I miss that driving experience now.

I don't want to buy another 3rd gen. It was a disappointment for me. Basically, Too big, underwhelming drive train, and I don't want another 4 door truck.

Here is what I would like constructive feedback on.

I have three possible purchases in mind. These would all either access cabs or two seaters. No 4-doors.

1) 1990-1993 3.0 Toyota Pickup with a 3.4 swap. I live close to Yota1 performance, and they gave me a reasonable quote on a rebuilt 3.4 and installation. I would also put a TRD supercharger or some other CARB approved brand on the 3.4. Estimated total cost 15-20K

2) Skip the Toyota Pickup and just get a 1st gen tacoma with the same powertrain as 1) above. However, I don't really like the aesthetic of the 1st gen. Hopefully the same total cost of the Toyota Pickup.

3) Tacoma 2013 - 2015 with Magnussen charger. This would probably be the most expensive option. I think this would be the last resort.


Anyone have experience with these three builds? I am hoping to keep the vehicle in great shape well into my retirement. Of course, I'll have another vehicle for kids and such. This would just be for me to drive by myself.



This is basically what I am going for. It will be used for fishing, camping.

 

Number one but what do I know I own a
Ridgeline.....Wish I still had the truck in my avatar

 

I’d say #2 is the most feasible and practical.

You could seek out the unicorn? Good luck though.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/1995-5-1997-v6-tacoma-reg-cab-only.457045/

 

I like #3: go big or go home.

 

you want to buy my 98 Tacoma? 2.7L 5 speed manual xtracab 4x4?

 

Gen 1 with an ls swap.

beefier rear end with a suspension upgrade.

Rocket ship

 

Gen1 Nissan frontier . Fully Boxed strong frame that doesn’t rust like any and all Tacoma’s . Pitman arm steering not weak / small Tacoma rack and pinion , floated hubs in the front so no lame unit bearing for 4x4 (can use manual hubs). Manual shift t case. Plus newer than a old school Toyota pick up so you get newer 2.4l or 3.3l v6. Very good motors. Maybe the 3.3 needs timing belts once in a while. Auto and manual trans is nice a reliable. Axles are many types and all strong. 4.5 stock gear ratios were offered. No on Will tell you this because most people just repeat what they hear.