Topic: 1st gen 4runner vs 2nd gen? I am in the market for one.

[3Jroberts]

Interested in getting back into rock crawling world. Jeep was sold 5 years ago as family grew. Now interested in a 4runner as my quad just is just not cutting it with 2 boys, gear and myself. I am no where near the level most of u r with wrenching but I am not afraid to jump in and get dirty. With that said I am interested in one that is pretty well built to begin with. I am in more of a position to repair replace things here and there than to take on an entire build from stock. I have likes for both 1st and 2nd gens. The rig will not be my DD and I have a tow Rig but being streetable is a plus. Thanks in advance for any input. Tom

[Rocksurfer]

Both are IFS mostly or have been SAS'ed, 1st gen has a removable top and the second has 4 doors which makes for easier exit for kid #2. I'd be happy with either, just stay away from the 3.0 V6.

[3Jroberts [OP]]

I like being able to remove the top but 4 doors is nice.  I agree on avoiding the 3.0 I don't know much about them but have read and heard enough to avoid them although u could say the same about my 6.0L Ford Excursion. Tom

[Jokeass-Wheelers]

I honestly love my 1st gen runner! I will never sell it it came factory with a 22re and stock straigt axle! its nice hve the convience of 4 doors on the 2nd gen ones but the removable top in th summer is just amazing easy to build up easyto find parts for both of them either choice would be good but I prefer having my 85 runner

[Snowtoy]

Kids hoping in and out 4 doors would be better, but then you have the issue with all the extra glass and sheet metal, whereas with the 1st gen you can leave the shell at home.

The 3.0 will be fine if it has been maintained and repaired correctly, I have just under 200k on my /90 that I have owned since it was new.  I have had a valve issue twice, but none in the last 9yrs.  IIRC, OOP's has been trouble free with his as well.  With you towing it and not DD'ing it, a 3.0 shouldn't be pause for concern.  There is also the 3rd gen Runner with the 3.4 available as well, and the aren't holding their value as well as the 1st and 2nd gens.

Depending on budget and plans, the '80's-90's Landcruisers and Lexus's may also be worth looking at.

[3Jroberts [OP]]

Thank u for input. I have been goin back and forth. I have been looking at 2nd gens because of the doors. Although I have almost pulled the trigger on a couple gen1's that where clean. Been following your input on the other thread regarding what to look for when buying. Gen 3's make sense as well. I have cash in hand just gotta find the right rig. Tom

[Rocksurfer]

I agree about the 3.0 with care but you are not buying it new and don't know its past, FYI my mechanic friend refuses to work on them.

[Yota 44]

I plan on building a 2nd gen 4runner next .
I'm looking for one that has a 22re in it .
My single cab just isn't doing the job any more

[3Jroberts [OP]]

I continue to look for a clean 2nd gen as well but keeping options open. Considering a gen 3 or 60/80 series land cruiser as well.