Think I found a needle in a haystack

It’s still the winner! Take the extra money the other would cost and do some engine work to the 95.

 

I would go with the 04 one because it has OBDII.

 

I was thinking that. With the 04 being $7500, time I add tax and title I'm around $8100. The 95 I have much wiggle room tax wise and maybe a tab price wise too, so I would be around $6000. Need to have both undercoated (fluid film $150) asap too. In the end, the 04 would cost me $2k+ all said and done

 

Timing and water pump were changed at 195K

 

the extra money you save from buying the 97 over the 04 w will end up back in the 97. being almost 21 years old there is probably some things to do.

 

the 04 is also almost new as far as big ticket items go. plus obd2

 

Dual airbags in the 04. I believe only driver’s in the 95, but check on that.

 

4 cylinder with an auto sucks bigtime, and with a single cab - gotta pass on that. It's a nice truck for sure, got lots of new stuff, but in the end you'll want more power, more room, etc.

I would go with the 95 hands down.

 

It would be a great weekend Home Depot runner. I'd pass on the 95.

 

I suppose it depends on what OP plans on using the truck for. Personally I wouldn't spend $8k+ for a home depot runner, you can do that with a beat to shit chevy pickup for $2k, and it can haul more stuff.
Either one of those Tacoma's could be nice wheeling rigs, if you wanted to road trip, go camping, etc. the extra room in the 95 is nice.

 

Those earlier front ends always look so good!!!

but I'd go for which was maintained better.

Checkout those maintenance records

 

I'd go with the 6 cylinder, I've got the 4 with the auto and it sucks balls!!!

 

Sounds like you found 2 needles in a hay stack!

 

I'm 99% going to get the 1995

Are there any services/maintenance that I should do when I get the 95 Tacoma? Thanks again for everyones help

 

I always check when the ball joints were last replaced on high mileage. Change all fluids.

 

Buying the 1995...the woman with the 04 told me this morning the lowest she would go was $7800 (she originally said $7500, but her son said $7800 was his lowest because of the exhaust repairs)

 

No $$$$$$$$$$$$$$

 

The 4 cylinder auto in the extended cab was too sluggish for me. I would only consider a manual. V6 is the way to go imo

 

You’re making the right decision.