This is basically my situation! Love these trucks! Mine is manual and at the time of typing this i've got something approaching 260,000~ miles or thereabouts. Fun to work and learn on and I am not a 'mechanic' by any means but I love how these are pretty straightforward.
+Sir Mutton Chops Taco's have always been pretty pricey. I remember when my dad bought a brand new '98 w/ extended cab 6 cylinder with 4x4, and it was roughly 22,000
+Eric Shugart I just looked up what that price would be with inflation out of curiousity, and its 32,500 so they have stayed pretty consistant with inflation taken into account.
+Sir Mutton Chops There is no "small truck" on the US market anymore. The taco, colorado, etc of today are the size of 1990's full size trucks(silverado, f150).
+Craig Flanick soo true i just got a 3.4 liter manual 1st gen tacoma for the size cause i dont want big i want small nimble and capable (soon it will be once i turbo it )
Kinda proves the 3rd gen was a step in the wrong direction lol, I worked at Toyota the time this truck just rolled out and my test drives on trucks with 0 miles I hated, I thought the transmission was a bad match despite it being a 6 speed. Funny to see the new truck can’t even beat out the first gen lol warms my heart!
AsianPersuation24x7 the should’ve used the 8 speed from the land cruiser so I’m hoping they add it when it’s refreshed and use the engine from the current camry
@@Bikes_N_Adventuredo you have a 3rd gen with the manual? I have an 03 with a 2.7 liter 4 cylinder with the 5 speed manual and I'm looking for a newer Tacoma. I've heard the 16 and 17's have transmission issues s Zi would only get a 6 speed manual if Zi was looking at one of those. Just wondering what your experience is if you have one. Just researching it before buying.
Same here. I smoked a 2500HD today in the rain. A 99 GT stang I stayed with. I beat a few 3rd gens. People talk numbers, but in reality, pedal to the metal, 3rd gen just stays behind. 4.0 has the launch torque, acceleration and top speed, not to mention proper shifting. 2nd gen hits 122mph and most modern trucks only touch maybe 98
I don't know who is selling the narrative that a smaller pickup won't sell, because all I hear no matter where I go is how much everyone misses smaller trucks. There's a reason 2004 Tacomas can still fetch prices in the mid-teens.
Som Guy i’ve been pondering this for quite some time. Think it’s a combination of classing up in vehicle weight in order to achieve mpg/cafe standards more easily. And. Since gas has been cheap and people like bigger Trucks on account of ego. I guess safety is also factor. Larger is safer But Toyota is absolutely missing out on a large segment of the market who prefer a smaller truck. Myself included
I'm with Nathan when it comes to simplicity, especially in a pickup. The more gizmos it has the more likely it is to break. That is even more true if you are the type that keeps a truck for a long time.
The second Gen destroyed the 3rd Gen, not surprised. I liked my 06. The new one not so much. The fuel Eco on the new one didn't impress me, not worth the debt for the trade up imo.
+C Steele They had ten years to plan for the next generation. A 1.5 mpg increase is pretty pathetic. Many full size trucks get better fuel economy than the new Tacoma. I would rather get the Colorado or Canyon diesel and get 31 mpg and probably closer to 34-35 once it breaks in. Not to mention the additional 104 lb feet of torque.
+Randy Cupp Yeah it's pretty pathetic I agree. While I like the design and the offroad capability of the 3rd gen, the mediocre mpg isn't impressive. Most full size trucks will do 25mpg even with the v8's. They didn't even change the 4cyl it should have been a turbo or even better a diesel. I'm waiting for the Colorado duramax diesel or the Nissan Frontier diesel runner to come out
C Steele Before I settled for my 2015 I waited to see the numbers for the 2016s and was not impressed so I went with the 15 and I have not regretted my decision at all
I went to trade in my 2006, and test drove a 2018 and unfortunately I had to tell the sales guy I couldn't downgrade. He just smiled and said "I understand, have a great day"
Same here. I live in Northern Wi with a 2WD ranger! Had it 5 years and only put 1,000 miles or so on it because it's always on jackstands. damn ford. Just can't trust it now
First gen was and will always be the best, it saves gas and was powerfull for a truck so small. Engines last longer than most cars out there. Tacomas will always be the truck i buy
Thanks guys for this mash up! As a first time taco owner (2013) I appreciate this. I love the trucks because they aren't your ordinary "car like bow tie midsized truck" They are super reliable and at least around these parts (Pacific Northwest) they seriously hold their value..Toyota=quality and solid trucks.
I was in my supercharged 1St gen when I saw this dude cutting in n out of traffic in his 3Rd Gen driving way faster than traffic with all the TRD gear with new tags on it. It was a nice truck for sure and it seemed he thought he was hot stuff. The next red light we both ended up at the front next to each other. The light turned green and we both nailed the throttle. I beat him by at least a car length. Made me feel good about the old Yota :)
Well that was mean now wasn't it ;) I don't like the powerband on the 3.5L. Peak tq at 4600. I test drove a 2017 6mt and it did not feel near as torquey as my 6mt FJ with the 4.0.
H. Got a 2000 4runner 2.7 and its been leaps and bounds more reliable than my previous american trucks and SUVs. Its even faster than my old 4.6 f150 and pretty close to my 5.0 explorer all while getting better mpg. Ill keep this one for a while, but my next truck is definitely gonna be a 1st gen 3.4 tacoma
@@Judgemental_Crow bro haha I actually did get rid of it a while ago. But I bought a 1993 4x4 4runner a few months ago, fully rebuilt the engine and got it painted the same metallic blue, will be picking up this weekend.
Hey TFL Truck, I would check your figures. 2nd Gen @ 4.397 Gallons over a 100 mile trip = 22.742 MPG (My math) Your MPG 20.7 3rd Gen @ 4.406 Gallons over a 100 mile trip = 22.696 MPG (My math) Your MPG 22.2 Unless I am missing something or my math is off I believe you may have a little issue with your figures. I'm a big fan of the show and just want the facts to be reported truthfully! ~Regards Capt. Hall
+Taylor Hall 4.397 gallons was before they let the pressure in the tank equalize. They continue to fill it after. Usually another 1/8 gallon goes in. Bad editing on their part.
My dad had a 2001 Toyota Tacoma. It was brand new and he kept it for the next 12 years. It was a the best truck ever. It was durable, strong, and came with some much good stuff. It even had a 5 speed manual with 4WD. Best truck ever made.
bayareasolarpower ‘01 3.4 here, still going on long trips with 260k miles. I have no fears with it whatsoever. I wouldn’t be able to say the same if I had an ‘01 Ford Ranger with that kinda miles!
@HAZOX Outside look yes. I do agree there but the inside no, the second is still better, it feels like a truck and the seats are hands down better then the 3rd gens.
What's better than 1 Tacoma!? 3 Tacomas!!! Excellent video guys!!! That 1st Gen Tacoma is beautiful. If I could travel back in time for a brand new one I'd get it over the other 2 any day.
Great idea comparing older versions of the same truck to it's contemporary. It may be hard to do this regularly, but it sure does give folks good context of how much improvement (or not) the current version brings. I had a 2002 Tacoma Prerunner X-cab V6 automatic and, even with the slush box, was a sprightly truck. For a tall guy with long legs, the interior was cramped and uncomfortable. I traded that in on a 2006 Tacoma 2wd (5 lug) 4 cyl access cab automatic. The interior was much roomier, though the seats were still low to the floor. It doesn't look like they addressed that in the newest truck.
Have an 03 v6 4x4 I bought new 17 years ago. Now has 96,000 miles on it. Pull horse trailer and small camper. Never had any issues, not even dash lights burning out. I'm 71. It will outlast me!
Why am I just now seeing this? This video is nearly two years old, yet I never knew it existed until now. And it's great! Multiple generations of a pickup truck in the snow! What's not to love?
Awesome episode! You guys work very hard to review and test vehicles. You even include real MPG tests. Most guys just take a car out and look at the MPG the car came with on paper or look at on board computer. Also awesome real world car testing either off-road or hauling testing.
Nicely bought Nathan, I love your 1st gen Tacoma. I sure miss the days when you could find a small, simple, inexpensive pickup with a manual transmission pretty easily. I love the looks of the first gen, too-- it is not overstyled like the 2nd and 3rd in my opinion. If you haven't seen it yet, you should check out Toyota's modern Back to the Future Tacoma Concept. It has the styling of the earlier Toyota pickups incorporated into the new truck. What I wouldn't give for all Tacomas to be styled like that one.
I have a 2003 4 door TRD with a 3.4L V6 engine with 109k miles. I love it. It's really fast to which I sometimes catch myself to have to slow down. I can really hear and feel the power in my truck for being small. It's not a 4x4 but here in the city I can't do much off roading which is ok but putting on some "meaty" all terrains gives it a tough look. I can't say how much I'm in awe with my truck for it's year and the well kept appearance.
I test drove 2nd and 3rd gen and 2nd gen Tacoma felt wider , just one more reason why I went for a 2nd gen although both are great , very reliable , personally I liked better the 2nd gen and it’s been great
The 1st gen was such a reliable vehicle. We use to tear up the sand dunes at Camp Lejuene's Onslow beach, good memories. Thanks guys, great review. Nathan were was Roman? You guys make quite the duo.
I own a 2005 Tacoma SR5 with a manual transmission and a V6. It is crazy reliable despite having 225,000 miles on it and being utterly trashed by the previous owners. I love it.
thanks, since posting that last comment i got to test drive the 3rd gen tacoma. booooy was i ever disappointed when i tried to floor it on the highway, my 2010 i used to own felt like it picked up way quicker, even though it had like 40ish less horsepower. i honestly feel the 3rd gen isn't a big enough upgrade compared to the second gen. like when i went from my old 2001 to my 2010, MASSIVE difference, in both power and towing. the newest one was just "meh".
@@samwell707 I recently made a video of my '09. I race all the time in public and rip slides. The 4.0L pushes hard, but I push my truck really hard. I have a history with some other types of cars.
Throughout the video I was rooting for the 2nd gen, cause I have a 2015 almost exactly like the one shown, except in red. I like the 1st and 2nd gen the best. The 3rd is alright, it’s the one that I see EVERYWHERE around my state. I always smile whenever I see a 1st or 2nd gen, since they go more unnoticed. In 2023 it’s the last year of the 3rd gen, so I wonder what the 2024 model will bring. Not a fan of the upcoming styling and engine choice (plus the bump in starting price) however only time will tell- it might be good.
What would be a great review is if you had the best towing half ton for 2015, 2005, and 1995 to show how improved all trucks are in the last 20 years. Great video by the way.
Watch it again....on both races the 3gen driver does not do a good straight line run...looses easily 5 to 10 seconds on the take off alone ..looks like he swerves to his left to avoid the starter .....that being said I can see the 2nd gen winning based on the better tranny.
I have a a 2000 Prerunner V6 with the metallic green paint, TRD package, a canopy, new speakers with tweeters and amps, and a touchscreen radio. I polished the paint to look like it did from the dealership, and will be getting it new tires and a cat back exhaust this week! It's an awesome truck that has gotten me through flood waters, goes through a rough trail often without losing its alignment for awhile, and it has only needed maintenance and tuneup.
Jose Rivera Keep the 2nd, in the near future the truvk will be in demand plus the 3rd besides cosmetics isn't worth an upgrade imo when it comes down to it 2nd gen>3rd gen...
This was a great idea! I would love to see you guys do with more trucks. Comparison to previous generations give's you an idea of how much (or how little) improvement has been made over the years. I'd love to see one of these for the Ford F-150. I own a 2011 F-150 FX4 5.0L. Would be interesting to see how it compared to it's older generations.
do a fuel efficiency test of the 1st gen, i bet it will get etter mpg than the 2nd and 3rd gen despite less power, less efficient engine, older design and a higher mileage truck
I don't know about that. My 1st gen 5 speed with the 3.4 gets around 16 on average. Maybe if you short shift the shit out of it you can get it above 20.
+InYo Face first of all, those aren't Tacomas. The Tacoma started in '97. Also that fact is also just not accurate. My friend has a normal cab with the I4, I have the extra cab with the V6. He can barely climb hills with his, I have plenty of excess power. Again, I have the EXACT same truck that's in this video, except mine is a 2003, a year older. I guarantee you that if they tried testing the mpg of the 1st gen, it would fall short.
+InYo Face Tacomas started in 95 and anything before that is not the same truck as the 1st gen tacoma. All though the pickups were the predecessor for the tacoma name they are very different.
Amazing. Anytime I am curious about a truck comparison they somehow have a video. My 04 Double cab 3.4 has 210K miles, been looking at 4.0 and 3.5's just out of curiosity. The 3.4 runs like a champ still, and here they have a video comparing the 3!
Just bought an 09 Tacoma TRD Sport Extended Cab 4x4, 4.0 V6. Only has 65,000 miles on it in 2020! 11 years later! It’s going to last me a looonnnggg time.
Was watching the racing again. Seems like the 2nd gen made the 3rd gen its bitch when it comes to power. I understand the move by Toyota to focus more on fuel economy though.
The new atkinson cycle engine is freaking awesome... a 3.5 liter atkinson engine uses the fuel of a 3.0 liter while making the power of like a 3.3-3.4 liter engine. The 4.0 was beat by 7k lb 90s diesel pickups for mileage too haha
Well done! You guys should make more episodes like this comparing previous gen trucks to their newer counterparts! I would be very interested to see something like the different Powerstrokes being compared against each other or the 5.4 F-150 compete against the 5.0 and the ecoboost.
Had a 99 extended cab 4x4 for 20 years, had to have the frame repaired when the right rear shock bracket rusted off. Got $5,500 only had 238,000 miles, great truck. Purchased a 2013 4 door with 38,000, best trucks on the market.
whoa whoa whoa, why didn't they say a WORD about why the 2nd gen (my truck's a 2nd gen) was so far ahead of the "more efficient and same power" 3rd gen? disliked the video.
the one to get is the 1st gen 4 wheel drive with the 4 cylinder 3RZ motor. Most reliable, cheapest to maintain...easy to work on (although it most likely won't need much work if any). Besides that 4 cylinders are what started the toyota puckup craze.
I have a 2nd gen (2011) and love it, but I think both 1st and 3rd gens are also great trucks for their own reasons. Besides Wranglers and 4Runners, there really isnt any other small/mid size trucks that are good daily drivers but also great off roaders. Everything these days is either a cross over or boat size truck you can't fit down most trails
My 1999 SR 5 4X4 2.7L I 4 lasted 376,000 miles before the head gasket blew. I wanted to re engine it but the Wife convinced me to replace it with a 2021 SR 4X4 double cab. It was the double cab which convinced me to replace it. We did a 120 mile camping trip with myself, my two daughter's, and two of their friends. The five of us in my 1999 extra cab! Talk about having to to take turns breathing! Then, loaded up with around 600 lbs. of gear, when going up the steep mountain grades, it was a case of "Yep! I only have 4 cylinders!" As much as I love my new truck, I miss my 1999!
Hey guy's thanks for the review. I have a 1st Gen 2000 Pre-Runner w/ 3.4L, 235K still running strong. It still has the original spare and AC refrigerant. I think I'm going to buy another.
I wish Toyota would make a smaller pickup with a fuel efficient 4 cylinder. I've got an 06 Prerunner and it's more truck than I need nowadays. I really wish I'd kept my 98 b2300.
My 08 just rolled 304,000 miles. Toyota replaced the frame at 298,500. I swapped the rear axle with one out of a 14. Truck is in pristine condition...and doesn’t use oil between 5000 miles oil changes. It’s crazy how well these trucks are made.
I don't understand why he says the first and second gen tacomas are pretty much the same, and that the 2016 is way different... The jump from 1st to 2nd generation Tacoma's was way bigger then 2nd to 3rd
Ive got up to 19.5 MPG on the highway going 75 MPH in my ‘01 3.4 with 260k Miles; probably got better mileage back in it’s younger years. I believe stock they got 17 city and 20 Highway.
3.5 should theoretically be more efficient, but the figures seemed off in the video (see one of the comment threads above) - in real world testing, the 3.5L doesn't really edge the 4.0L, returning roughly the same economy in most normal conditions. If you're driving purely around town or on short hauls (like as a farm truck), the 3.5L will return a few MPGs more, but scarcely enough to justify the drop in low-end grunt from the 4.0L.
The 2nd and 3rd gens are almost exactly the same. They are about the same size internally and externally and they look very similar, not to mention that they have the same frame. The first gen is an absolutely different vehicle. Different frame, different technology, much lighter and much smaller.
+Chris Babb Different engine, different transmission, different front end, different bed, different interior, different electronics, wait, what were you saying again?
Different engine on the same frame, (except the four cylinder that's the same egine and same manual trans) different styling (who cares). Nearly identical dimensions, same bed construction, almost identical suspension, same infotainment technology (slightly refined in 3rd gen), similar weight. Of course they are different those basic things you listed cannot be exactly the same if they want to call it a new generation, but they are much closer to each other than the first and second gen are to each other which is what the video tried to claim.
Chris Babb Fair enough. 1 to 2 was definitely a much bigger change. I just hear a lot of claims that the 3rd is the same as the 2nd, when other vehicles have had even more subtle changes between generations without the same criticism.
No I agree they are definitely not exactly the same truck at all. They just have some similarities. I was just shocked when he said that one and two were more alike than 2 and 3.
Thanks for another great review. Have you considered in future "special" episodes to do a segment on accessories for trucks (i.e.: what to look for - what not to do etc). I know many of your viewers are experienced truckers but some of us aren't. Thanks - love the show.
I don’t see how people like 2nd gen over 3rd gen. 3rd gen is the best looking mid size truck out there. No Chevy fans allowed here, bcox Colorado is uglier than me.
Don't care for the interior much. 1st generation had the right idea and stuck to a fabric and a plastic. 2nd gen used over three different materials on the dashboard alone and they used fabric on the door handles which I can't stand.
sure 04 is considered first gen but really first gen is mid 90s, they will always be the best midsize off road truck, less options less things to break. I have a 95 tacoma 2.7l 4wd 5spd with v6 axle swaps ( stronger pinion bearings and 4.10 gear ratio as opposed to 3.56 and locker rear) no abs, no ac, no power locks or windows. perfect mud truck. keep it simple and less things break
![เปิดคำทำนาย นอสตราดามุส - บาบา วานก้า ปี 2025 คนทั่วโลกต้องเจออะไรบ้าง? | แฉ 11 ธ.ค. 67 [2/3] |GMM25](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/xmTIKWJUMPM/mqdefault.jpg)
Man that 4.0 just killed that 3.5! Especially for such a short drag!
They were absolutely monsters. After than engine toyota made tacomas into grandpa trucks. At least the newer ones will have balls
That's why it destroyed it. The 3.5 would have pulled past it if it was a longer race.
I love the old 3.4 L in 1st gen with 5 speed ....that engine was bulletproof and never died
toyota engines never die!
Sartaj Aujla agreed , currently owning 2014 hilux with 2.7 and manual
+Ara J I respect Toyota for keeping manual transmissions in their trucks. Really cool they give the consumer that option.
Chris Taylor toyota make me mad they dont break im forced to drive old cars cuz they dont break my corolla has 260k on it
Chris Taylor yeah looking into a camry now gonna give the corolla to a family member who is learning to drive
I daily drive a 1995 Tacoma, with the 3.4 liter 5VZ-FE. And it has 287,000 miles, and is still going strong!
1996 2.7L 4x4 261k miles just did 1500 mile road trip still strong
95 tacoma?
@@jasonsechrist1 tacomas were available since 1995.5 hehe
This is basically my situation! Love these trucks! Mine is manual and at the time of typing this i've got something approaching 260,000~ miles or thereabouts. Fun to work and learn on and I am not a 'mechanic' by any means but I love how these are pretty straightforward.
@Bug TKZ does it have a locker?
It's disappointing that small trucks keep getting bigger and more expensive.
So dam true
+Sir Mutton Chops Taco's have always been pretty pricey. I remember when my dad bought a brand new '98 w/ extended cab 6 cylinder with 4x4, and it was roughly 22,000
+Eric Shugart I just looked up what that price would be with inflation out of curiousity, and its 32,500 so they have stayed pretty consistant with inflation taken into account.
+Sir Mutton Chops There is no "small truck" on the US market anymore. The taco, colorado, etc of today are the size of 1990's full size trucks(silverado, f150).
+Craig Flanick soo true i just got a 3.4 liter manual 1st gen tacoma for the size cause i dont want big i want small nimble and capable (soon it will be once i turbo it )
Kinda proves the 3rd gen was a step in the wrong direction lol, I worked at Toyota the time this truck just rolled out and my test drives on trucks with 0 miles I hated, I thought the transmission was a bad match despite it being a 6 speed. Funny to see the new truck can’t even beat out the first gen lol warms my heart!
AsianPersuation24x7 the should’ve used the 8 speed from the land cruiser so I’m hoping they add it when it’s refreshed and use the engine from the current camry
Why Toyota skip the dual vvti V6 version?
Why would a heavy a** truck get LESS horsepower than a Camry? with the same 3.5 engine???
The manual 3rd gen is the move!
@@Bikes_N_Adventuredo you have a 3rd gen with the manual? I have an 03 with a 2.7 liter 4 cylinder with the 5 speed manual and I'm looking for a newer Tacoma. I've heard the 16 and 17's have transmission issues s Zi would only get a 6 speed manual if Zi was looking at one of those. Just wondering what your experience is if you have one. Just researching it before buying.
I wish I never sold my 2nd Gen 2014 TRD 😌 My 2018 is most definitely weak compared 4.0 v6. 2nd Gen hands down best motor. LIVE AND LEARN
Get a trans & motor tune. Seems to make it much better.
Yup, I smoke 3.5's with my 4.0
Same here. I smoked a 2500HD today in the rain. A 99 GT stang I stayed with. I beat a few 3rd gens. People talk numbers, but in reality, pedal to the metal, 3rd gen just stays behind. 4.0 has the launch torque, acceleration and top speed, not to mention proper shifting. 2nd gen hits 122mph and most modern trucks only touch maybe 98
@@CaptainFALKEN imagine the magnus supercharger on that 4.0
@@CaptainFALKEN what tires do you run
I don't know who is selling the narrative that a smaller pickup won't sell, because all I hear no matter where I go is how much everyone misses smaller trucks.
There's a reason 2004 Tacomas can still fetch prices in the mid-teens.
Som Guy i’ve been pondering this for quite some time.
Think it’s a combination of classing up in vehicle weight in order to achieve mpg/cafe standards more easily.
And.
Since gas has been cheap and people like bigger Trucks on account of ego.
I guess safety is also factor. Larger is safer
But Toyota is absolutely missing out on a large segment of the market who prefer a smaller truck.
Myself included
I think its more about profit margin for manufacturers. They make more on the big trucks.
@@99dynasty Based on the tacomas 20 years of past sales it doesn't seem like their missing out on much of the market.
It’s regulations and import tariffs that keep small pickups out of the US, not a lack of demand
I'm with Nathan when it comes to simplicity, especially in a pickup. The more gizmos it has the more likely it is to break. That is even more true if you are the type that keeps a truck for a long time.
The second Gen destroyed the 3rd Gen, not surprised. I liked my 06. The new one not so much. The fuel Eco on the new one didn't impress me, not worth the debt for the trade up imo.
+C Steele They had ten years to plan for the next generation. A 1.5 mpg increase is pretty pathetic. Many full size trucks get better fuel economy than the new Tacoma. I would rather get the Colorado or Canyon diesel and get 31 mpg and probably closer to 34-35 once it breaks in. Not to mention the additional 104 lb feet of torque.
+Randy Cupp
Yeah it's pretty pathetic I agree. While I like the design and the offroad capability of the 3rd gen, the mediocre mpg isn't impressive. Most full size trucks will do 25mpg even with the v8's. They didn't even change the 4cyl it should have been a turbo or even better a diesel. I'm waiting for the Colorado duramax diesel or the Nissan Frontier diesel runner to come out
C Steele Before I settled for my 2015 I waited to see the numbers for the 2016s and was not impressed so I went with the 15 and I have not regretted my decision at all
I went to trade in my 2006, and test drove a 2018 and unfortunately I had to tell the sales guy I couldn't downgrade. He just smiled and said "I understand, have a great day"
The 3rd gen is a downgrade of the 2nd gen.
I need a Tacoma so bad. no other truck will do. Tacoma and Tacoma only.
Just make sure you get the year/engine you want. 3.4, 4.0, or 3.5 are all different and have pros and cons, but honestly any Taco is a good Taco
Same here. I live in Northern Wi with a 2WD ranger! Had it 5 years and only put 1,000 miles or so on it because it's always on jackstands. damn ford. Just can't trust it now
2008 is the best year. No issues. I have a 2006 and love it. I wish TRD was still offering supercharger kits...
TrebuShade I got a 08 v6 taco
Did you get a Tacoma?
First gen was and will always be the best, it saves gas and was powerfull for a truck so small. Engines last longer than most cars out there. Tacomas will always be the truck i buy
Just bought my first tacoma after two 4Runners. The 4.0 is such a huge improvement. I love the 2nd Gen.
Fresno4runner Did your last 2 4Runners have the 3.4 in it?
Kyler A I had a 2nd Gen with the 3.0 and a 99 with the 3.4
Fresno4runner I had a 2002 4Runner until someone hit it... However I've driven a 2014 4Runner with 4.0 and it's nice.
I love my 2015 toyota tacoma trd off road. Plan on keeping it for a long time
Thanks guys for this mash up! As a first time taco owner (2013) I appreciate this. I love the trucks because they aren't your ordinary "car like bow tie midsized truck" They are super reliable and at least around these parts (Pacific Northwest) they seriously hold their value..Toyota=quality and solid trucks.
1st gen is best, small quick and durable
I was in my supercharged 1St gen when I saw this dude cutting in n out of traffic in his 3Rd Gen driving way faster than traffic with all the TRD gear with new tags on it. It was a nice truck for sure and it seemed he thought he was hot stuff. The next red light we both ended up at the front next to each other. The light turned green and we both nailed the throttle. I beat him by at least a car length. Made me feel good about the old Yota :)
hahahaha, sick.
Well that was mean now wasn't it ;) I don't like the powerband on the 3.5L. Peak tq at 4600. I test drove a 2017 6mt and it did not feel near as torquey as my 6mt FJ with the 4.0.
I haven't had a fantasy that good in a long time. Kudos.
I have a 01 tacoma single cab 2.7. thought about selling it for a while, now I'm just going to keep it and renew it. it's a damn reliable truck.
H. Got a 2000 4runner 2.7 and its been leaps and bounds more reliable than my previous american trucks and SUVs. Its even faster than my old 4.6 f150 and pretty close to my 5.0 explorer all while getting better mpg. Ill keep this one for a while, but my next truck is definitely gonna be a 1st gen 3.4 tacoma
Just sold my 02 prerunner single cab 2.7l timing chain with 180,000 miles for $6,500
Never get rid of it bud
@@Judgemental_Crow bro haha I actually did get rid of it a while ago. But I bought a 1993 4x4 4runner a few months ago, fully rebuilt the engine and got it painted the same metallic blue, will be picking up this weekend.
the 2nd gen had the best looking grille
Yup 100% agree!!!
Thats why you pay like a hundred bucks and get a sexy insert for your first gen. Heck, you can even throw raptor lights in there and it'll look sick
Hey TFL Truck, I would check your figures.
2nd Gen @ 4.397 Gallons over a 100 mile trip = 22.742 MPG (My math) Your MPG 20.7
3rd Gen @ 4.406 Gallons over a 100 mile trip = 22.696 MPG (My math) Your MPG 22.2
Unless I am missing something or my math is off I believe you may have a little issue with your figures.
I'm a big fan of the show and just want the facts to be reported truthfully!
~Regards
Capt. Hall
I'm glad I'm not the only one that caught his math mistake.
Haha. I saw it too.
So the second generation has better mpg.
+Taylor Hall 4.397 gallons was before they let the pressure in the tank equalize. They continue to fill it after. Usually another 1/8 gallon goes in. Bad editing on their part.
+Taylor Hall They're also using 98 miles as calculated by the GPS.
My dad had a 2001 Toyota Tacoma. It was brand new and he kept it for the next 12 years. It was a the best truck ever. It was durable, strong, and came with some much good stuff. It even had a 5 speed manual with 4WD. Best truck ever made.
And the 1st gen is still best gen.
bayareasolarpower ‘01 3.4 here, still going on long trips with 260k miles. I have no fears with it whatsoever. I wouldn’t be able to say the same if I had an ‘01 Ford Ranger with that kinda miles!
The 2nd gen is far better then the 1st gen tacoma bro. I got the D-4D 4 cylinder turbo diesel and my MPG is 35+!!! 👊
@HAZOX
Outside look yes. I do agree there but the inside no, the second is still better, it feels like a truck and the seats are hands down better then the 3rd gens.
@HAZOX
Hand stitched leather? Leather doesnt belong in a truck man, its belongs in a BMW 🤣🤣
@HAZOX
Back pain? I have token lots of road trips and never once had back pain from my seats man. I'm actually going to Montana this Wednesday
What's better than 1 Tacoma!? 3 Tacomas!!! Excellent video guys!!! That 1st Gen Tacoma is beautiful. If I could travel back in time for a brand new one I'd get it over the other 2 any day.
Great idea comparing older versions of the same truck to it's contemporary. It may be hard to do this regularly, but it sure does give folks good context of how much improvement (or not) the current version brings.
I had a 2002 Tacoma Prerunner X-cab V6 automatic and, even with the slush box, was a sprightly truck. For a tall guy with long legs, the interior was cramped and uncomfortable. I traded that in on a 2006 Tacoma 2wd (5 lug) 4 cyl access cab automatic. The interior was much roomier, though the seats were still low to the floor. It doesn't look like they addressed that in the newest truck.
Have an 03 v6 4x4 I bought new 17 years ago. Now has 96,000 miles on it. Pull horse trailer and small camper. Never had any issues, not even dash lights burning out. I'm 71. It will outlast me!
I love the Mashups! This is one of my favorite. We need to see these three off road together!
Why am I just now seeing this? This video is nearly two years old, yet I never knew it existed until now. And it's great! Multiple generations of a pickup truck in the snow! What's not to love?
Awesome episode! You guys work very hard to review and test vehicles. You even include real MPG tests. Most guys just take a car out and look at the MPG the car came with on paper or look at on board computer. Also awesome real world car testing either off-road or hauling testing.
I like 2.7 liter motor Toyota Tacoma, 96 and my 2009 Toyota two door Tacomas both are cracking up about 250,000 miles mark
Nicely bought Nathan, I love your 1st gen Tacoma. I sure miss the days when you could find a small, simple, inexpensive pickup with a manual transmission pretty easily. I love the looks of the first gen, too-- it is not overstyled like the 2nd and 3rd in my opinion. If you haven't seen it yet, you should check out Toyota's modern Back to the Future Tacoma Concept. It has the styling of the earlier Toyota pickups incorporated into the new truck. What I wouldn't give for all Tacomas to be styled like that one.
This is EXACTLY what I wanted in a video. Plus I'm a 2nd gen Tacoma owner. Excellent vid, guys!
2nd gen best gen!
Had an 85, a 93, a 96 and now an 09. My wife had 05 Highlander, and now 08 4Runner. All 4x4s. Love them all.
I love the 2nd gen Tacoma, not to big not to small a perfect mix of old and new school.
Just picked up a used 2014 and I absolutely love it!!
Love watching your real life videos
I have a 2003 4 door TRD with a 3.4L V6 engine with 109k miles. I love it. It's really fast to which I sometimes catch myself to have to slow down. I can really hear and feel the power in my truck for being small. It's not a 4x4 but here in the city I can't do much off roading which is ok but putting on some "meaty" all terrains gives it a tough look. I can't say how much I'm in awe with my truck for it's year and the well kept appearance.
Victoria Zamora Take care of that gem
This show is getting better each time great job guys. The only show that makes mpg reviews awesome!
I test drove 2nd and 3rd gen and 2nd gen Tacoma felt wider , just one more reason why I went for a 2nd gen although both are great , very reliable , personally I liked better the 2nd gen and it’s been great
I had a 1998 Toyota Tacoma 2wd and have a 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD sport 4x4. I love them both.
did see that correctly the 2nd gen on needed 4.3 gallons of gas and the 3rd needed 4.4 so by my calculations the 2nd gen won
I just bought a 2004 Tacoma, it’s my first truck ever. It has 150k and it drives like a top. I’m already in love with it.
The 1st gen was such a reliable vehicle. We use to tear up the sand dunes at Camp Lejuene's Onslow beach, good memories. Thanks guys, great review. Nathan were was Roman? You guys make quite the duo.
+TheMeanmarine13 Roman was at CES when they boys had access to all three Tacos at the same time.
Nice review on these three Taco's!
Now, take all three off-road and test them out..
+Hiluxtaco this. offroad review is a need
+The Fast Lane Truck you should try that with other vehicles ex: suburban
The Fast Lane Truck Roger that, I just enjoy the videos more when two do your back and forth haha. Thanks for responding
I own a 2005 Tacoma SR5 with a manual transmission and a V6. It is crazy reliable despite having 225,000 miles on it and being utterly trashed by the previous owners. I love it.
great review! i still haven't driven the third gen tacoma, but i've owned the first and second gen and i loved them!
you're not missing anything special in the 2016. Engine is anemic.
I've seen your vids btw. thanks for posting them. They convinced me to get an '09.
thanks, since posting that last comment i got to test drive the 3rd gen tacoma. booooy was i ever disappointed when i tried to floor it on the highway, my 2010 i used to own felt like it picked up way quicker, even though it had like 40ish less horsepower. i honestly feel the 3rd gen isn't a big enough upgrade compared to the second gen. like when i went from my old 2001 to my 2010, MASSIVE difference, in both power and towing. the newest one was just "meh".
@@samwell707 I recently made a video of my '09. I race all the time in public and rip slides. The 4.0L pushes hard, but I push my truck really hard. I have a history with some other types of cars.
Throughout the video I was rooting for the 2nd gen, cause I have a 2015 almost exactly like the one shown, except in red. I like the 1st and 2nd gen the best. The 3rd is alright, it’s the one that I see EVERYWHERE around my state. I always smile whenever I see a 1st or 2nd gen, since they go more unnoticed. In 2023 it’s the last year of the 3rd gen, so I wonder what the 2024 model will bring. Not a fan of the upcoming styling and engine choice (plus the bump in starting price) however only time will tell- it might be good.
Great idea! Love it! Love to see an old T100 vs 1st generation Tundra vs the current generation Tundra!
What would be a great review is if you had the best towing half ton for 2015, 2005, and 1995 to show how improved all trucks are in the last 20 years. Great video by the way.
Pretty pathetic the 2nd gen kills the 3rd gen in a drag race. Where is all that newfound HP?
Only about 30 more and heavier
Watch it again....on both races the 3gen driver does not do a good straight line run...looses easily 5 to 10 seconds on the take off alone ..looks like he swerves to his left to avoid the starter .....that being said I can see the 2nd gen winning based on the better tranny.
It get's lost in that all new, power robbing transmission...
I'd like to see a drag race where they all have manual transmissions.
I’ve got a second gen and it runs. Easily one of the fastest off the line “stock” trucks on the road to this day
I have a a 2000 Prerunner V6 with the metallic green paint, TRD package, a canopy, new speakers with tweeters and amps, and a touchscreen radio. I polished the paint to look like it did from the dealership, and will be getting it new tires and a cat back exhaust this week! It's an awesome truck that has gotten me through flood waters, goes through a rough trail often without losing its alignment for awhile, and it has only needed maintenance and tuneup.
I guess I will be sticking with my 2008 TRD 4dr Off road. New ones have nice interior but nothing else much is improved unless you get PRO.
I've personally owned a 1st gen, a 2nd gen, and just ordered a 2016 3rd gen. Fantastic trucks!
I love my 13 TRD Sport
Thanks a lot for take your time to make this video. I enjoyed a lot, since I am a 2nd generation owner thinking to upgrade to the 3rd generation.
+Jose Rivera Upgrade to the first gen.
Jose Rivera Keep the 2nd, in the near future the truvk will be in demand plus the 3rd besides cosmetics isn't worth an upgrade imo when it comes down to it 2nd gen>3rd gen...
1st Gen is the true champ
This was a great idea! I would love to see you guys do with more trucks. Comparison to previous generations give's you an idea of how much (or how little) improvement has been made over the years. I'd love to see one of these for the Ford F-150. I own a 2011 F-150 FX4 5.0L. Would be interesting to see how it compared to it's older generations.
do a fuel efficiency test of the 1st gen, i bet it will get etter mpg than the 2nd and 3rd gen despite less power, less efficient engine, older design and a higher mileage truck
guaranteed
I don't know about that. My 1st gen 5 speed with the 3.4 gets around 16 on average. Maybe if you short shift the shit out of it you can get it above 20.
+InYo Face first of all, those aren't Tacomas. The Tacoma started in '97. Also that fact is also just not accurate. My friend has a normal cab with the I4, I have the extra cab with the V6. He can barely climb hills with his, I have plenty of excess power. Again, I have the EXACT same truck that's in this video, except mine is a 2003, a year older. I guarantee you that if they tried testing the mpg of the 1st gen, it would fall short.
+Mike Utoober i have a 3.4l 4wd 5 speed with 4.10 gears and i get about 18.5mpg in the city.
+InYo Face Tacomas started in 95 and anything before that is not the same truck as the 1st gen tacoma. All though the pickups were the predecessor for the tacoma name they are very different.
Amazing. Anytime I am curious about a truck comparison they somehow have a video. My 04 Double cab 3.4 has 210K miles, been looking at 4.0 and 3.5's just out of curiosity. The 3.4 runs like a champ still, and here they have a video comparing the 3!
Really great review guys, love it! I will keep my second Gen Tacoma forever, perfect truck for what I do.
I love my 2010 4.0 TRD OFFROAD with a manual transmission. Took me a while to find it.
I got a 2009 and a 2014 both four door automatic with all the packages, but I want me a first gen. manual now. or a ranger at least.
Just bought an 09 Tacoma TRD Sport Extended Cab 4x4, 4.0 V6. Only has 65,000 miles on it in 2020! 11 years later! It’s going to last me a looonnnggg time.
Was watching the racing again. Seems like the 2nd gen made the 3rd gen its bitch when it comes to power. I understand the move by Toyota to focus more on fuel economy though.
The new atkinson cycle engine is freaking awesome... a 3.5 liter atkinson engine uses the fuel of a 3.0 liter while making the power of like a 3.3-3.4 liter engine. The 4.0 was beat by 7k lb 90s diesel pickups for mileage too haha
@@glock19gen3 blame epa
Tacoma was never good on gas. So 2nd gen all the way. Hotrod machine
Well done! You guys should make more episodes like this comparing previous gen trucks to their newer counterparts! I would be very interested to see something like the different Powerstrokes being compared against each other or the 5.4 F-150 compete against the 5.0 and the ecoboost.
You guys should review the Toyota pick ups and how they evolved into the Tacoma
Had a 99 extended cab 4x4 for 20 years, had to have the frame repaired when the right rear shock bracket rusted off. Got $5,500 only had 238,000 miles, great truck. Purchased a 2013 4 door with 38,000, best trucks on the market.
ill take the 2004!
My 95 Celica no problems since high school 280k miles. Toyota 4 life. I have an Audi Q5 and its a nightmare at times.
could you do some more testing of the first gen?! That would be awesome!!! Thanks!!
Wouldn’t trade my beautiful 4.0 Tacoma for anything!
whoa whoa whoa, why didn't they say a WORD about why the 2nd gen (my truck's a 2nd gen) was so far ahead of the "more efficient and same power" 3rd gen? disliked the video.
the one to get is the 1st gen 4 wheel drive with the 4 cylinder 3RZ motor.
Most reliable, cheapest to maintain...easy to work on (although it most likely won't need much work if any).
Besides that 4 cylinders are what started the toyota puckup craze.
2nd gen best gen
Sir Josefsson RC agreed. I have a 2015
I have a 2013. DCSB?
wrong 1st gen is the best gen because our valves dont clutter (:
I have a 2nd gen (2011) and love it, but I think both 1st and 3rd gens are also great trucks for their own reasons. Besides Wranglers and 4Runners, there really isnt any other small/mid size trucks that are good daily drivers but also great off roaders. Everything these days is either a cross over or boat size truck you can't fit down most trails
I have a 2013 charcoal 💪💪
Had to be a lot of work for this review. Turned out great & I really enjoyed it!
My 09 Tacoma never get more than 19 MPG on highway....most of the time is 17 or 18
TRD Access Cab...17" FJ cruiser wheels on Nitto 32's...Funk gas mileage!!!...Luv my truck!!!
v6 doublecab rwd with camper shell here, I get about 23
My 1999 SR 5 4X4 2.7L I 4 lasted 376,000 miles before the head gasket blew. I wanted to re engine it but the Wife convinced me to replace it with a 2021 SR 4X4 double cab. It was the double cab which convinced me to replace it. We did a 120 mile camping trip with myself, my two daughter's, and two of their friends. The five of us in my 1999 extra cab! Talk about having to to take turns breathing! Then, loaded up with around 600 lbs. of gear, when going up the steep mountain grades, it was a case of "Yep! I only have 4 cylinders!" As much as I love my new truck, I miss my 1999!
Who is driving the 3rd gen. Damn. I can understand losing to the 1st cause its a manual. But at least drive straight
Wil D it's just an insanely slow truck lol
3rd gens are mega slow.
Hey guy's thanks for the review. I have a 1st Gen 2000 Pre-Runner w/ 3.4L, 235K still running strong. It still has the original spare and AC refrigerant. I think I'm going to buy another.
I wish Toyota would make a smaller pickup with a fuel efficient 4 cylinder. I've got an 06 Prerunner and it's more truck than I need nowadays. I really wish I'd kept my 98 b2300.
The base model tacomas have 4 cylinders
+Grip Maniac It's still physically too large. I'm thinking size comparison to early 90's tacomas, mazdas, rangers.
+tsnorquist yea I get what your saying, they don't make them like they did in the 90's at all
+Grip Maniac I'd go as far as to say I'd be interested in a hybrid nowadays with the type of work I do.
+tsnorquist a hybrid truck would be a cool idea.....
Finally someone measures the depth of these beds , thank you
Hah, the 2nd gen spanked the 3rd gen in a drag, nice, glad i have my 2nd gen, with a 6 speed manual to boot ;D
great review it was very interesting to see how they have changed. I have a 2007 TRD sport 4x4 V6 4.0 and love the truck.
I have the same engine of the 1st gen but mine is a 2000 but I've pulled well over 5000lbs with it😂
My 08 just rolled 304,000 miles. Toyota replaced the frame at 298,500. I swapped the rear axle with one out of a 14. Truck is in pristine condition...and doesn’t use oil between 5000 miles oil changes. It’s crazy how well these trucks are made.
do the same with f150s plenty of generations to go through
lol
I've had my 2nd gen for 2 weeks now and I'm already in love
I don't understand why he says the first and second gen tacomas are pretty much the same, and that the 2016 is way different... The jump from 1st to 2nd generation Tacoma's was way bigger then 2nd to 3rd
I got really surprised about that 04' vs 16' drag race! I need to try that myself
No first gen mpg
I know, I wonder why?
Ive got up to 19.5 MPG on the highway going 75 MPH in my ‘01 3.4 with 260k Miles; probably got better mileage back in it’s younger years. I believe stock they got 17 city and 20 Highway.
The 3.5 runs on the Atkinson cycle so it’s more efficient
3.5 should theoretically be more efficient, but the figures seemed off in the video (see one of the comment threads above) - in real world testing, the 3.5L doesn't really edge the 4.0L, returning roughly the same economy in most normal conditions. If you're driving purely around town or on short hauls (like as a farm truck), the 3.5L will return a few MPGs more, but scarcely enough to justify the drop in low-end grunt from the 4.0L.
I love my 2nd gen better then 3rd gen .good trucks no matter what
The 2nd and 3rd gens are almost exactly the same. They are about the same size internally and externally and they look very similar, not to mention that they have the same frame. The first gen is an absolutely different vehicle. Different frame, different technology, much lighter and much smaller.
+Chris Babb Different engine, different transmission, different front end, different bed, different interior, different electronics, wait, what were you saying again?
Different engine on the same frame, (except the four cylinder that's the same egine and same manual trans) different styling (who cares). Nearly identical dimensions, same bed construction, almost identical suspension, same infotainment technology (slightly refined in 3rd gen), similar weight. Of course they are different those basic things you listed cannot be exactly the same if they want to call it a new generation, but they are much closer to each other than the first and second gen are to each other which is what the video tried to claim.
Chris Babb Fair enough. 1 to 2 was definitely a much bigger change. I just hear a lot of claims that the 3rd is the same as the 2nd, when other vehicles have had even more subtle changes between generations without the same criticism.
No I agree they are definitely not exactly the same truck at all. They just have some similarities. I was just shocked when he said that one and two were more alike than 2 and 3.
Chris Babb Agreed. I had to double take on that, too.
Proud gen2 owner!!
Owned all three and I absolutely love the 3rd gen!!
Thanks for another great review. Have you considered in future "special" episodes to do a segment on accessories for trucks (i.e.: what to look for - what not to do etc). I know many of your viewers are experienced truckers but some of us aren't. Thanks - love the show.
Should have thrown in the Toyota Pickup 22re
Ohhh man. The storm you guys created over on Tacoma World is priceless. 3rd gen guys are not happy lol.
2nd Generation 2013-2015 look best...IMO
Joshua Hudson *2012-2015* they redesigned the front for the 2012 models
I agree & still say the 4.0 is a better engine
I have a 2012 4X4 TRD Sport in Spruce green with gold pearlesent coating and it turns heads everywhere when its nice and shiny. Love Tacomas
I don’t see how people like 2nd gen over 3rd gen. 3rd gen is the best looking mid size truck out there. No Chevy fans allowed here, bcox Colorado is uglier than me.
Don't care for the interior much. 1st generation had the right idea and stuck to a fabric and a plastic. 2nd gen used over three different materials on the dashboard alone and they used fabric on the door handles which I can't stand.
Thumbs up guys, my favorite truck show ever
2016 Tacoma TRD Off Road v. (mashup) Chevy Colorado Z71 V6 Please please please please
An outstanding comparison! This idea would make a great series for you to show.
2015 2nd Gen is by far the better looking.
sure 04 is considered first gen but really first gen is mid 90s, they will always be the best midsize off road truck, less options less things to break. I have a 95 tacoma 2.7l 4wd 5spd with v6 axle swaps ( stronger pinion bearings and 4.10 gear ratio as opposed to 3.56 and locker rear) no abs, no ac, no power locks or windows. perfect mud truck. keep it simple and less things break