For Sale: 1986 Toyota 4Runner in Mesa, Arizona

Here's the SUV that launched the legend. This 1986 Toyota 4Runner is a preserved iconic SUV that has everything you love - from the removable hardtop to proper 4x4 prowess.


Today we know the 4Runner as equal parts cool and rugged. But since this one is early in the first generation, it was hard to know back then how much we'd be on the lookout for these over three decades later. That's why it's so nice to find such a complete example like this. The sheetmetal's straightness tells the story of a well-respected classic. And the red paint with matte red on the fiberglass hardtop is quite appealing. The presentation is not the kind you'd traditionally put on a car show lawn, but that's exactly how you want a proper 4Runner to be. After all, it has the 4x4 ability to tear through the lawn on its way to the mud hole. You even have nice extra-duty features like the BF Goodrich All-terrain T/As, rock shields on the headlights, and a Class III trailer hitch with proper wiring plug.


The interior remains quite stock and complete. The cloth seats and well-done dash are all part of a package that reminds us why these have such a well-earned rugged reputation. Plus, the high-back front buckets, grippy factory steering wheel, and the position of the gearshift all have a bit of a sporty feeling. The removable hardtop gives you a nice convertible SUV experience, and there's also a glass sunroof for added open-air fun. You can even get the R134a air conditioning serviced if you want full climate control when you're open to the world. And there's a power window in the rear that goes down to give you a nice tailgate for everything from the campsite to sporting events.


Under the hood is what makes these Toyotas so desirable. The 2.4-liter fuel-injected 22R motor is the backbone on which Toyota has built their reputation for reliability. This one has an original but tidy look with the right signs of good maintenance and even an aluminum radiator. The motor runs nicely, and you get full control over it thanks to the five-speed manual transmission featuring overdrive. And the way this all feels out on the road proves that this 4Runner has a lot of work and play left in it, too. The two-speed transfer case for true 4x4 ability, power steering, and power brakes with front discs all make this a fun choice to run around town or the trail.


This has been an Arizona truck its whole life, and so it's that ideal kind of desert classic. You already know how great these Toyotas are, so don't miss your opportunity at a preserved example. Call today!!!