What is the best forerunner to buy

Well, it all depends on a lot of factors... what year(s) are you looking at? What's the repair and use history of the vehicles? How many miles on them?

I don't think either is more _reliable_ than the other on a general scale, really.

The third generation 4 cyl engines actually out power the first and second generation V-6's. In 1996, the v-6 also came in a 5 speed, there might be a few other years they did that as well. Might also be harder to find a standard transmission 4runner, as people who have them tend to keep them. So if you do find one and it is in good shape, you might get a better resale price out of it later for that reason. The V-6 has a timing belt, which needs replacement at regular intervals. The 2.7 liter 4cyl has a timing chain, so less worry if you keep it maintained well.

What do you plan on doing with the vehicle? Are you heavy on the clutch use? Want to tow with it? Mud/snow/offroad? Like I said, it all depends on the individual vehicle and how well it was taken care of as to how well it will perform for you in the long run. Dee