KAC:
The manufacturer's specifications will always vary from an independent source such as Four Wheeler Magazine. Manufacturer's base their specifications on in-house/independent tests. These tests use different methods and criteria to establish results. This means that manufacturers, like Toyota, will use their own set of means to produce favorable attributes in their advertising and data sheets for the purpose of attracting customers.
I could write a novel on the differences between a Toyota 4Runner and the Hummer H2. Reason being that I was once the unfortunate owner of a 4Runner. Needless to say, the 4Runner was my 1st and last Japanese nameplate!
The 4Runner topped at 45mph when ascending to 5000 ft. in altitude (with full load). My H2 will pull all day long, here in the mountains!
The 4Runner had numerous electrical glitches and the overdrive constantly slipped. In short, I absolutely hated that gutless Japanese tin can; it was the most worthless 4 x 4 I have had the misfortune of owning.
My Jeep, Chevy Blazer, and Yukon were all more capable than a STOCK Toyota!!!! I have first-hand experience with all of these vehicles and I rate the Toyota dead-last. I can provide details, but I'll be sucking pages and bandwidth beyond every one's interest.
The 4Runner may be a "decent" off-road instrument for some, but only after serious modifications. It lacks ground clearance, low gearing, stability [4Runners are prone to flipping at speed], and power. The new 4Runner has a V8, so perhaps the power issue is a thing of the past.
What's the domestic content on a 4Runner? Any one know? I'll bet odds that it's 70% Japanese in origin (regardless of assembly/part stamping location).
[This message was edited by SJ on December 17, 2002 at 10:19 AM.]
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