definately a newbie question

[timmyjm]

First off, I am not sure how "hard core" of a forum this is, I own a Jeep and the misc forums out there can get pretty rough at times with newbies asking the same question over and over. With that being said, yes, I've done research on 4runners, here and on Google.
I am in need of a vehicle that can be had for under $5k, gets ok mileage, is mechanically sound, 4 wheel drive, can haul a small load, and be able to carry at least four passengers safely(myself and my kids) The first vehicle that came to mind and has stuck is the 4 runner. I have a couple buddies that previously owned a 93 and 95 yota pickup. They loved em, I did too but didnt admit it, being a Jeeper and all. They both said that the 22re is a better engine when compared to the v-6 in the extended cabs of this generation pickup. As far as I have read, the pickup and 4runner are similar in many respects except the whole SUV vs. truck thing. I would be using the 4runner primarily as a daily driver, driving from missouri to indiana (327 miles) at 70mph. And would most likely wander off road a time or two. I'm military, getting divorced, wife's taking the car...blah blah blah.
So with all that taken into account, what would be the best generation, model year, etc. for my needs, and still under $5K?

[fourwd1]

For $5K you should be able to find a good 2nd generation (90-95) 4Runner, 4 cyl (22RE)/5 spd.

But it sounds like a smaller SUV like a Toyota RAV4, Honda CRV, or Suzuki Sidekick/Geo Tracker might be better suited for your commuting/occaisional offroad needs.

[timmyjm]

I dont think I can see myself driving an older Rav 4, or any CRV or Sidekick. Im thinking, strictly in terms of gas mileage, to check out the Samurai. they also make great wheelers with little cost, and I already have a set of wrangler springs to use for a mild lift. It will be really hard to get me away from the 4runner though. I've always liked them just dont know a whole lot of negatives about them. All I read is good, which is even more convincing. Cons would be the 15-20 MPG, but that is to be expected from a 4 door SUV. And I have also read something about the 3.0 heads being a problem after X amount of miles, with the 22re being way underpowered. I am definately not afraid to get my hands dirty but I need to save the majority of that for my Jeep!! Thanks for the reply

[fifty5panhead]

I would be using the 4runner primarily as a daily driver, driving from missouri to indiana (327 miles) at 70mph. And would most likely wander off road a time or two.

go with a 96-2000 4runner with the 3.4 that will give you everything you are looking for in a 4runner. I love my 22rebut it works hard keeping 70 mph and getting good mpg because of the weight of the 4runner. The 3.4 is built to handle the weight and will pull a trailer as well as hold 70 all day long without skipping a beat and hold 4 people comfortably.

[fourwd1]

go with a 96-2000 4runner with the 3.4 that will give you everything you are looking for in a 4runner. I love my 22rebut it works hard keeping 70 mph and getting good mpg because of the weight of the 4runner. The 3.4 is built to handle the weight and will pull a trailer as well as hold 70 all day long without skipping a beat and hold 4 people comfortably.

That's very true, but finding one for under $5K is another story.