First gen 4Runner

1987 Toyota 4Runner owner review. History, tips, why is it so good. 1987 SR5 Toyota 4Runner with a 22re, two speed transfer case and 5 speed manual transmission. Silver metallic over grey interior. Original auto hubs replaced with Mile Marker manual hubs. The 'No Cut Zuk' coil spring modification has been added to the rear suspension. Stock Toyota 15" wheels with slightly over-size 31x10.5 Cooper All Terrain tires. Based on the Hilux N30 pickup, the 4Runner predecessor started out as a collaboration with Winnebago called the Trekker as a tariff work-around available 1981-83 before being redesigned into what we see here based on the N60 platform (except the 4Runner is one piece bed-cab construction). The name 4Runner is credited to the advertising firm of Satchi & Satchi following a company-wide competition with Robert Nathan submitting the winning name. Although often credited to Toyota's CALTY design studio in California, most sources point to the removeable top and window designs (elements still seen in the latest 4Runner models) being done in-house by Toyota in Japan. Similar vehicles with removeable tops from the time period (and earlier) include: the full-size Chevy K5 Blazer, GMC Jimmy, Dodge Ram Charger, Plymouth Trail Duster and post 1977 Ford Bronco. Mid-sized trucks include the IH Scout and 1966-1977 Ford Bronco. The CJ model jeeps and even the FJ40 can probably be included although most consider them in a different market segment. The 22re engine (2,366 cc) with an iron block and forged steel crankshaft has proven to be one of the most reliable engines of all time. The 'e' in the name signifies electronic fuel injection which became available during the 1985 model year. The 22re engine is a further development of the 22r, 20r and 18r engines. The R family of engines range from 1.5 to 2.4 liters and were offered from 1953 to 1997. This engine family can be traced back to the much earlier Type S Toyoda (yes with the 'd') engine family. If traced far enough back it was originally reverse engineered from a 1930's German Adler engine. In U.S. 1st gen 4Runner available engines include 22r (1984-85), 22re (1985-89), 22te turbo (1986-87) and the 3.0 v6 (1988-89). Major changes during the model run: independent front suspension IFS replacing the solid front axle in 1986, a wider rear axle starting 1986, differentials, transfer cases and transmissions were updated for the turbo and v6 models. Manual and automatic transmissions were available. Nuances in model years, engine changes (timing chains etc), rare colors, decals, options and any number of other variations could fill up a few pages. Current market pricing shows top condition and sought after spec examples steadily increasing over the past 6 years. Condition and spec pushing prices with generally the 1984-85 straight axle models being preferred over later IFS. Turbo models with the digital dash bring a premium as well. Bring a Trailer shows a recent $60,500 sale for a stunning 1985 model. Driver condition 4Runners can be found for less than $10k. Today the first gen 4Runner is sought after as a fun and competent off roader with massive aftermarket support. Modifications are almost limitless. Most mechanical parts are readily available. 4Runner specific interior trim parts can be harder to source. Rust is the enemy to these classics. The strong boxed frame rails can be susceptible to rust and should be checked and any needed repairs figured into a sale price. Use as a daily driver can be fun and enjoyable but the lack of crash safety may need to be considered. Overall comfort and a comparable lack of power to contemporary vehicles may temperate daily commute use. The removeable top gives an open air feel which can make riding in an enclosed vehicle feel stifling. Combine this open air feel with the first generation 4Runners size and you have a fun and agile vehicle that is a joy to own and use.