Tell me I’m not losing it here. I’ve got an ’03 regular cab 4x4 with 210k miles that I’ve had for five years. My lifestyle has changed, so I need more cabin space now. The truck has some minor cosmetic issues but still runs great, and the frame, which I had undercoated when I was in California, is in excellent shape.
I just can’t seem to get excited about newer Tacomas, even the Gen 2 4.0 models don’t seem to appeal to me as much. Am I being unreasonable for continuing to search for another Gen 1.5 (’01-’04) and paying a premium for one in top condition? Should I just keep driving my current truck until it can’t go any longer? Are the newer generations so much better that I should stop my nostalgic attachment to the first-gen models? I’m really just looking for a simple truck.
By the way, if anyone has a low-mileage extra cab 4x4 auto from those years and is thinking of selling, let me know .
Head over to a dealership and take a few test drives. While hearing about other people’s experiences can be helpful, ultimately, you need to choose what you like best for yourself.
If you need more cabin space because your family is growing, a Gen 3 Tacoma could be a smart choice, especially for safety reasons. On the other hand, if you need it for work, a Gen 2 is comfortable and straightforward without too many extras. I’m not a Tacoma expert, but I recently test drove a few models, so the details are still fresh in my mind.
I drive a 3rd gen 4Runner daily (which is essentially like a 1st gen Tacoma) and keep a fully modified 2nd gen in the garage. I really appreciate the 1st gen Tacomas and 3rd gen 4Runners, but they’re definitely showing their age, and finding one in good condition at a reasonable price is becoming more challenging. My ’97 4Runner runs great but is starting to dry rot, and I just spent hours replacing hoses and seals. A later model 2nd gen is still a fantastic truck and in better shape, but I can’t bring myself to part with my ’97 for something newer. Working on cars doesn’t bother me, but owning a 25-year-old truck with an uncertain history isn’t ideal.
I used to have a ’96 4Runner, but as you said, circumstances change. Finding a good one is tough, but I recently bought a 2001 double cab with nearly half a million miles on it. The good news is, there’s no rust.
I’ll be spending the next few weeks replacing gaskets and fixing leaks, exhaust issues, brakes, and probably more. I ended up paying quite a bit for it, but I still feel positive about the choice.
So, while it doesn’t mean you’re not a bit crazy, it does mean you’re not alone in feeling this way.
Well said . It’s great to hear that you’re feeling good about your decision, even with the challenges that come with an older truck. It sounds like you’ve got a solid plan to get everything sorted out, and that dedication to maintaining and restoring a classic vehicle really shows your passion for it. It’s always a bit of a gamble with these older models, but the satisfaction of keeping a beloved truck running smoothly can make it all worthwhile. Plus, knowing that you’re not the only one going through this kind of situation can be reassuring. Here’s to hoping your hard work pays off and you get to enjoy your truck for many miles to come.
Got a bit of spare cash? Consider importing a Hilux if you can, it’s something I’d do if I had the chance. Japanese domestic market (JDM) cars often have very low mileage even after being over 10 years old. It’s not too difficult to find one with under 60,000 kilometers on it.
If you really love your truck, it might be worth keeping and investing in fixing all those minor issues. The cost of buying a new one could be used to make your current truck perfect, and since you’re already familiar with it, you’ll get even more value from your investment.
I upgraded from a 2010 4-cylinder access cab to a 2023 V6 double cab, and I’m really happy with the change. There’s plenty of space now, and I can even accommodate four more passengers if needed. The backseat comfortably fits adults, though it might be a bit snug for taller individuals. However, there’s ample foot room around the brake pedal, which makes it easier to stretch out on longer drives if necessary.
Call me crazy, but I totally get where you’re coming from. Even though I’m currently driving a Gen 3, my all-time favorite Tacoma has always been the Gen 1 double cab. I wasn’t really into pickup trucks until I saw the Gen 1 Tacoma when I lived in New England in the early 2000s. Ever since then, I’ve had a soft spot for them. Back then, I was too young and couldn’t afford one, but when the Gen 3 was released, I finally had the chance to get a Tacoma. Still, the Gen 1 remains my top pick. Those early Tacomas were just such cool little trucks. If I were in your position, I’d definitely hold on to it.
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. It’s great to hear that you’re feeling good about your decision, even with the challenges that come with an older truck. It sounds like you’ve got a solid plan to get everything sorted out, and that dedication to maintaining and restoring a classic vehicle really shows your passion for it. It’s always a bit of a gamble with these older models, but the satisfaction of keeping a beloved truck running smoothly can make it all worthwhile. Plus, knowing that you’re not the only one going through this kind of situation can be reassuring. Here’s to hoping your hard work pays off and you get to enjoy your truck for many miles to come.