Hey guys,
I am looking at purchasing a 2003 V8 Sport. I would really appreciate if you could take the time and give your thoughts on this vehicle. I know the 03 doesn't have the hp of the later models... but it is what i can afford.
i will not be towing ... but it will be my daily driver. Anything that is a problem area on this year? I drove the 05 Limited... but liked the all wheel driveand suspension on this 03.

Thanks for taking the time.

Brian

 

I have the 03 Sport V6 4x4,and love the truck, the reas suspension is awesome. Didn't know they make them in all wheel drive. You have to ask someone with a V8 about the gas mileage, because i hear there not the best.(only if it's a concern).

 

Hi there! im new to the board and this is my 1st post!

I have an 03 Sport Edition V-8 and I absolutely love it. However, as I appreciate its performance, i show that through religious routine maintainence, changing the oil every 3000 miles (even though its suggested at 5000 miles) at the dealer where they check the machine and use the 50/50 oil (50% oil, 50% synthetic) along with the other routine checks, etc.

Maybe im not "down with the lingo", but you stated in your post that the 03's "dont have the hp of the later models"....what were you referring to when you wrote "hp"? Did you mean the horse power? If so, id say to look at the torque that the v-8 puts out! My v-8 might not have the high horse, but its a SUV...and its made to tow and do some off roading....i'll take the torque over the HP when im going through some hardcore New England winter weather!

My gas mileage is 20-21 highway with my V-8. As long as youre not pedal-to-the-medal and using cruise on the highways at highway speeds, then you'll be fine. I saw the difference in gas mileage on the V-6 was 21, while the V-8 was slightly less. It was a very very VERY small amount, so id go with the V-8!!! The AWD with the V-8 feels completely different than the 2WD-4WD switchable V-6. The steering with the V-8 is tighter, more responsive, and I prefer it over the V-6. Others might not agree, but thats what i felt when i test drove them both.

My only complaint: The typical moonroof cable-rattle. A very very common problem in early models (03 and up). Other than that, im loving my 4Runner. So happy i waited til i found one that was exactly what i wanted.

Good luck!

 

Your mileage is pretty good. Mine is only 16 on Highways.
Time to get it checked

 

Yeah, sounds that way. I just put new BFG Long Trail TA's on mine for winter, and i do need to warm it up in these winter months (a balmy 8 degrees this morning in Boston!) but im still upwards of 20mph on my 13 mile ride to work in the morning!

Good luck!