When were the best Tacomas made?

What were the best years for Tacomas? I've heard people say that the first generation of Tacomas was the best, but not sure why. I'm interested in hearing different opinions about that.

 

I liked my 07.
My 17.... too much electrical wizardry and I will say quality has diminished since then.

 

Depends on your definition of 'best'.

To me, the early first gens are the best - mechanical everything, minimal electronic bullshit, maximum reliability, easiest to park.

Someone who cares about the resolution of their backup camera would probably disagree with me.

 

I had an 87. Loved it!

 

2008-2015 V6

 

The best Tacoma is a Hilux.
6th Gen. being the best.

Next would be the 1st Gen. w/2.7, Manual Transmission and Manual Locking hubs.
Followed closely by the 13’-15’ - 2nd Gen Tacoma.

 

TnShooter, why do you think those are the best?

 

As for the Tacoma
The 2.7 has a proven track record well into the 300-400k mileage range.
And the 1st Gen had a manual transfer case and Manual Locking hubs. (Manual Hubs we’re only available in 95.5-97)

If you really want a 2nd Gen the 13-15 with a 4.0 engine.
Because it uses an open differential added by electronic Brake Simulated LSD.
The mechanical LSD want bad, it’s just harder to find parts for. It was only used in 05-08 trucks. Also it has more options than the earlier years.

Again, my opinion is that the 1st Gen is the over all better truck.
Except for the lower ball joints. They were a weak link.

 

Hello....McFly!

 

The one you have..

 

I wish I kept my 2011 Off road !!!

 

Had two late 80’s pre Tacoma trucks 4cyl 4x4 then a 95 gen one SR5. All including Taco had manual trans crank up windows Have a 2018 now with the auto. Third gen is my favorite. Much more comfortable way more power. They were all equally capable off-road for what I do. They all had issues early on I resolved. The 88 had to have the rearend resealed as well as a trans seal under the warranty. Someone stole the 86 before I had it long enough. The Taco had new head gaskets under a TSB that came out, and came horribly miss-aligned from m the factory. Have had the fuel pump recall on this one but no issues in 50k miles. Non of them ever left me stranded or had an issue I could not deal with. They all lasted as long as I wanted the truck. I get bored every 8-10 years and get something else. Between the two Tacos I drove a Silverado 1500 for 14 years. Same thing. A few warranty hiccups early on then other than cv axle seals and a pinion seal up front completely trouble free

 

My 96 Tacoma 2.7 manual has been the best truck that I have owned so far. During the 408K that I put on it, I've only replaced the starter and fuel pump. We'll see if the 3rd Gen can compete.

 

Ha! I have the 96 extended cab in the same color. I did a double take when I saw your picture.

 

Mine is still under 200K. Nice to know how well yours has held up at 408K.

 

Wow under 200K, practically new (Lol). Yeah, it has been an awesome truck. It has a blown head gasket right now, but hopefully to get it fixed soon.

 

1st gen Tacoma are the best year. I will be in the market for a DCSB 1st gen next year.

 

The best Tacomas made were easily 1st gen. My 2001 Tacoma has 500k miles on it and is the origional engine.