whats the best model and year 4X4 tacoma to buy with only $11000 4cy vs 6cyl ?

[ben50520012000]

okah. i got around 11000 bucks. so im looking for the a nice rig with low miles..

I want a 4x4 extra cab tacoma 5spd .. ive been looking and a 97 98 or 99 2000 truck that would be in my price range with around 100K or under.. sr5 ? lx? dont know what that means

I want the t.r.d with the locking rear diff. but they are alot of $$$ so i dont know if i can get it... should i save my money for the t.r.d.

allso im not to shure about the v-6 vs the 2.7 4cyl issue ...
i know the v-6 has a lot more power whitch i would like.. but is it really that good in the long run..?...

i know toyota has a very good word for there 4cyl motors

i dont really care for gas milege

allso i heard if you get the t.r.d. sr5 it better the the normal t.r.d. is this true?

thanks

[AlexKram]

I like my 2.7L in my '98 4x4 for the following reasons:

1. plenty of power for me (150hp which is what my old Nissan V6 was rated at!)

2. has a timing chain (V6 has belt). You should change a belt periodically and it's a bitch. Even when you do it can still break and usually at a bad time.

3. It gets about 21 mpg (4x4), the V6 gets a few less. This saves money and also gives more range. That is important for me because I spend a lot of time exploring the Nevada desert where there aren't gas stations around.

4. Easier to do maintenance. A little more room to work around it in the engine compartment.

I think the 4 cyl runs a lot rougher than the V6 so it's not as "luxurious". I'm sure there are people that will say the V6 is better for you and they may be right but I prefer the 4 cyl.

Good luck in your search, you should be able to find a really nice truck for $11,000. I spent $7500 on mine. It's a '98 extended cab 4x4 (non TRD), 5 speed SR5 and in great shape with 101k miles (now it has 119k). Originally I bought it as a toy for playing off road since I drove my Infiniti to work every day. After driving the Toyota for a few months I sold the Infiniti and now it's my only vehicle besides a dual sport motorcycle.

[bkydmech]

I have a 96 2.7 4x4 extra cab and the motor is more then adequate. Especially with a 5 speed. I agree 100% with the items listed in the thread above