I think I'm getting ready to buy a 1998 4Runner and had a couple of questions I was hoping some people could help with. Right now, one of my main concerns is whether to look for the 4 or 6-cylinder. I realize the 4-cylinder is underpowered, but I'm willing to put up with that if the gas savings are fairly significant. So, my two questions are:
1) What kind of gas mileage do people with this engine typically get on the highway?
2) Does the added strain to the 4-cylinder mean that this engine ends up needing more repairs?

Many thanks to anyone who can help me out.

The gas milage really isnt any better with the 4-banger. The 4-banger has to work a lot harder than the V6, so there is no fuel economy advantage.
The 4-banger wont need more repairs in the long run, it just wont get better fuel economy.

I OWNED A 97 4RUNNER SR5 3.4L V6 {4SPD AUTO INCLUDING OD, 4X4} BEFORE I BOUGHT MY 07 TUNDRA AND IT WAS REALLY GOOD, IT GAVE ME FROM 19MPG UP TO 27MPG. THAT SEAMS WEIRD BUT IM TELLING THE TRUTH. I HAD A CUSTOM EXAUST, COLD AIR INTAKE K&N, AND A VENOM CHIP. MIND U I DROVE IT HARD AND STILL GOT 19MPG, BUT WITH JUST THE EXAUST AND K&N STRAIGHT TRIP WE GOT 27.SOMETHING WITH IT. IT WORKED REALLY GOOD, HAD NO PROBLEMS, AND WOULD IT EVER MOVE. GREAT CHOICE FOR A SUV.

I have a 97 4runner Ltd, 3.4 V-6, and I get on average (20% highway, 80% city) about
19 per gallon. Straight Hwy gets me about 23-26, depending on me. Go for the 6 cyl engine. Actually, I think I'm going to sell mine since we don't take 4-person family vacations anymore.

26 MPG on the highway with a 4Runner??? Im calling BS on that one!

Depends on how I drive, really, and I drive like a grandma (no offense to grandmothers). Usually about 23 on average on the highway, but I have gotten as high as 26 before.