Agent 00R Needs YOU: A Co-Worker And His Toyota SUV Dream

So, I recently made a transition to a new company in the past two months. It hasn't been easy and, frankly, it was tripped up thanks to some significant health issues that cropped up along the way. But on several bonding events with my all-new co-workers, it didn't take long for them to find out that I was a massive, massive gearhead.

And then the car questions poured in.

They ranged from things like "Oh, what do you think of the Chevrolet Suburban?" to "I have to sell my MINI Cooper Countryman, should I just hand it back to a dealer or do it private party?" For me though the biggest one that's stumped me came from a colleague who's on a search. But not for a new vehicle. A used one. A very specific old SUV.

He's looking for a late 1980s 4Runner or Land Cruiser he can snap up for about $10-15,000 in good shape. And although he's been looking on Craigslist and Cars.com, it's obviously been a very difficult search for him.

That said, I have TWO questions for you:

1) What SHOULD he be looking at getting? Budget is $10-15,000 and he wants something relatively cool to put 3,000 or miles on annually.

2) Is the 4Runner or Land Cruiser the "right" fit? Where should he be looking?

GMCadillac - 8/11/2015 5:02:07 AM

-9 Boost

I've only heard good stories on the second gen Cadillac Escalades, very reliable.

Or Chevrolet Avalanche or Tahoe.

I personally would avoid Toyota, as it reminds me of anime and Fukushima radiation.

jeffgall - 8/11/2015 8:41:02 AM

0 Boost

Would be good to know more about what his intentions are for it. Road trips, off-roading, camping, etc...

A good condition Grand Wagoneer is always a fun a nostalgic choice.

trmckin - 8/11/2015 3:44:53 PM

+1 Boost

Living in the front range of Colorado and having owned literally every generation 4Runner except for the latest edition... I wouldn't go with the late 80s 4Runner. I'd find a mid to late 90s model. Parts are everywhere and the aftermarket offerings are pretty awesome should your coworker decide to dress it up. The late 80s models weren't as popular and while they are fun, they aren't as comfortable and versatile as the mid to late 90s runner. Just personal opinion though. The older ones look cool though. Just not as easy to own.

trmckin - 8/11/2015 3:45:34 PM

+1 Boost

Plus the removable tops leak and aren't easy/cheap to replace.

MrEE - 8/11/2015 7:04:54 PM

+2 Boost

Can't go wrong with bullet proof Toyota's, though I agree the mid 90's being the start of the golden age for Toyota. At this age I would certainly avoid Jeep, GM and Ford, in that order, of course in Michigan these are long rusted Swiss cheese.