Topic: what the best 4runner to build 80s or 90s

[Dave Traichel]

I dd (10 years and counting) a sased 88 22re 5speed but owned a 93 3.0 auto. If your planning on having a baby go for the 2nd gen. Both are really good platfoms to build a 2nd gen makes a much better dd but i love my 1st gen and deal with the fact it rides like crap and is kinda noisy inside. I don't have a kid yet but i know its gonna suck when i do for the baby seat years. The removable top rules!

[garlicgabe]

1st gen.  I like the round headlights.  Classic lines.

[AaronB]

1st gen.  I like the round headlights.  Classic lines.

what? first gen. 4runners have round headlights? thats news to me!

[garlicgabe]

Have you ever seen a TREKKER?

[Gold40Runner]

I love my 2nd gen but it definantly is heavier. I like the first gen for removable top and light weight factor... Tough decision.. Even tho people selling first gen 4 runners think they have some classic collectors car and usually want crazy $$$$$$...

[J+S Crawler]

Personal Preference.  For me I like the 4 doors on the 2nd gen, easier to get the kids in and out.

[twistedtoy92]

1st gen for sure! 1985 4runner, 22RE, W56, STRAIGHT AXLE, removable top..... hell yes!

[Jokeass-Wheelers]

agreed! 1985 22re straight axle, easy to build and I love my runner I will never get rid of it 

[theslayer85]

You already said you bought a 2nd gen.  With me and deciding what to go with the real question is how bad am I going to wheel it, and how much work do I want to do.  If it is a strick rock crawler then the 85 is already solid axle.  But if it is just a mild build for a weekend warrior then a second gen is great for the family.  I have both and to make the 2nd gen a hard core crawler it takes some serious fabrication.  They both have their advantages and disadvantages.