HELP Pro's & Cons of Ranger 4x4?

[wkumale]

I want to buy a 4x4 extended cab for this winter. I want to save gas and have a 4x4 so I was thinking of getting a 4 cylinder. My price range is about $2000 - $3000. I would LOVE for it to be an automatic transmission but I think the 4 cylinders only come in 5 speed transmissions. Please correct me if I am wrong. I can live with the 5 speed if I have to. I was wondering if I should just go to the 3.0 and get an automatic transmission. What do you guys think? What would the MPG trade off be?

Also, what are the pros and cons of buying a ranger? What are they known for Good and Bad. Are there certain years and/or motors I should stay away from, or some more desirable than others? For the price range I have in mind I am looking at around 1995 – 2000 models. Any and ALL help is appreciated. Thanks in advance
TJ

[MagicRat]

From what I know the 4 cyl / 5 spd will be cheaper to buy, more reliable and get better economy than a v6/auto. One site reports 25 to 26 mpg for the 4 cyl/5 spd, compared with 18 mpg for the V6/auto. This is real-world mileage, not EPA.

The 4 cyl will obviously be slower, with a bit more work to drive, though, Your choice may depend on what trade-off you value most. .

You are looking at some older trucks here, so really good ones may be pretty rare. I suggest not to get too hung/up on the engine and trans choice. Focus instead ion getting the absolutely best condition, lowest mileage Ranger you can find, regardless of driveline combo.