Newbie; Looking for comments on these 03 and 98 Tacomas

I have never owned a truck before, but have become very interested in picking out a soild tacoma for 4-6k. Everything I have heard about Tacomas has been positive.

To me, this ad looks pretty good. Low milage, 2003. How do you see this ad? What should I look out for/ask the owner? Should the price be a little lower? (03, 121k miles, $6500)

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/cto/4523520614.html

I also found a very similar 1998 with a few more miles, how would you compare? (98, 190k, $4500)

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/cto/4521754583.html

I've been doing research into the history/specs of tacomas, but some advice on these two ads could really help me out as a noobie.

03, 121k miles, $6500:



98, 190k, $4500 :

 

I like lower miles.....But I was looking for a 5 spd only and a 4X4 as well...I have no clue what the market is like on the west coast....I'm located in Ga. I gave $8250 for a 99 single cab 4X4 with 140,000 miles....Not sure I helped much....Make sure you check the frames for rust....Either of those trucks could have spent the better part of their lives up north even though they are now in sunny CA.

Brian

 

Just spend 11,500 on a 2003 with 125k. however it's trd sr5 xtra cab 4x4. and in phenomenal shape. I don't know much about fair market price but both of those seem like they're in the ballpark price ranges. I'd go for the newer one though.

definitely check for the rust on the frame. there was a recall of sorts on them. check for cracks, holes, rust, etc. then I'd check on the engine. make sure around all the seals there's no oil dripping out, and check the hoses. find out when the timing belt was done last. that's about all I've got to say for it. FOllow your gut feeling too, if it feels bad, it probably is.

 

Those trucks should have a timing chain. The 2.4 is a good engine. If an auto, check the fluid. Check the frame, although the 4x4s were the ones that had a recall. I got a 99 v6 auto ex cab prerunner with 147k for $5900 if that helps you out at all