4cyl vs 6cyl

[hacktorious]

Hello,
I am new to off roading. My wife and I just bought an 08 Rav4 Sport 4-cylinder. We took it off roading today. It did a pretty decent job. It was very rocky and the hills were steep. We had the stock tires.

My question has to do with 4cyl vs. 6cyl for trail riding. What advantages would 6cyl have, over 4? I have always been told the # of cylinders doesn't mean much if you have the right amt of torque.

We have three days to make a decision on whether we want to keep the car, or upgrade it to the 6cyl. I was hoping you could help me weigh the pros/cons so I could make a decision.

Does the 4 cylinder have enough power for off roading?

Thanks.

[speedy]

I don't know that I would buy a RAV4 with the intention of wheeling regardless of the engine, but... a 166hp 4cylinder seems fine considering I am running 35 inch Super Swampers and doing just fine offroad with a 100hp 22r 4 cylinder. I would be more concerned with ground clearance, articulation, and traction. Good luck.

[hacktorious]

You might be right. As long as it can get me to my camping spot!!!

If you could choose any vehicle for 20k, or less for off roading, what would you choose? I may decide to get something when the Rav is paid off.

Actually I would consider getting something for 5k, or under, which could be fixed up. Does anyone have some good suggestions?

Thanks.

[94linexyota]

you should do some scouting of the trucks in your area and see iif you can come across one of the 85' or earlier toyota pu's . hell even if you can find one of the ifs trucks 86 -94 that is in good shape, as long as they have a good frame and a good engine you'll be in good shape. also you maay want to keep the rav4 in good shape because its good on gas and you may want it to stay that way

good luck finding a truck to wheel in and have a good time

[82yota]

I say stick with the 4 banger. I love the 4 cyl motors Toyota makes. They are simply amazing. Run forever and get quite good fuel economy. I've only dealt with a few of them. The 22R and 20R, my 3.0L TD, the 1.6L from the camry and the 1.8L in the matrix and they are all great motors. I'd pick a 4 over a 6 any day. IMO they are easier to work on as well. There is not as much motor in the engine compt. And at 166hp thats more than most things I've ever driven. Either way you should end up with a good family vehicle.