In the hunt for a new vehicle. Sold our beautiful 2008 touareg to get a more sensible DD. Was the perfect vehicle (dual diffs and air suspension) other than some finicky German engineering, too expensive, and not much aftermarket. Looking for something a little more reliable and rugged for family camping, towing small popup, mild offroad, and slowly convert into a light overland type setup. Wife, 2 young kids with carseats, and lots of associated gear (bikes, chariot, etc. etc.).
I've always wanted a Tacoma since my 1990 pickup got wrecked, but I think the Gen 1 crew cabs are a little small and the gen 2 are a little pricey for our 3rd vehicle. Would consider a 4runner or maybe Xterra, but I think we'd run out of room pretty quickly.
So ... I think I've settled on a LC 100. Reliable, capable, and somewhat affordable (for 2000 ish with higher miles). I'm pretty familiar with the vehicle specs, but have never actually been in one. I know the mileage sucks but wont be a DD. Anybody have thoughts / pros / cons or other 2cents. I'll probably upgrade suspension and a few other mild mods, but nothing too crazy.
I'm looking at a very well maintained 2000 from a 2nd owner MUD member (150K, ARB bumper, new tires) with some superficial cosmetic issues or maybe finding something similar age, less miles, less wear, but probably less known history. Seems like most are 2nd or 3rd owner from a random dealer. Of course I'd love to find one with low miles, perfect condition, and spotless history, but might be searching for a while. I'm not too concerned about the cosmetics cuz I'll be using the vehicle, but clearly will affect resale, etc. Obviously no crystal ball, but I go back and forth on what will be a better vehicle ... thoughts?
I've always wanted a Tacoma since my 1990 pickup got wrecked, but I think the Gen 1 crew cabs are a little small and the gen 2 are a little pricey for our 3rd vehicle. Would consider a 4runner or maybe Xterra, but I think we'd run out of room pretty quickly.
So ... I think I've settled on a LC 100. Reliable, capable, and somewhat affordable (for 2000 ish with higher miles). I'm pretty familiar with the vehicle specs, but have never actually been in one. I know the mileage sucks but wont be a DD. Anybody have thoughts / pros / cons or other 2cents. I'll probably upgrade suspension and a few other mild mods, but nothing too crazy.
I'm looking at a very well maintained 2000 from a 2nd owner MUD member (150K, ARB bumper, new tires) with some superficial cosmetic issues or maybe finding something similar age, less miles, less wear, but probably less known history. Seems like most are 2nd or 3rd owner from a random dealer. Of course I'd love to find one with low miles, perfect condition, and spotless history, but might be searching for a while. I'm not too concerned about the cosmetics cuz I'll be using the vehicle, but clearly will affect resale, etc. Obviously no crystal ball, but I go back and forth on what will be a better vehicle ... thoughts?