Overview The third generation of the Toyota 4Runner, produced for the 1996 through 2002 model years (with some markets extending to 2004), represents a significant departure from the truck-based origins of its predecessor. While the first two generations shared a chassis with the Toyota Pickup, the third generation moved to a platform shared with the…
Overview The Toyota 4Runner, specifically the models produced between 1999 and 2011, represents a significant era for the nameplate as it transitioned from a rugged, truck-based utility vehicle to a more refined mid-size SUV. During this timeframe, the 4Runner spanned the end of the third generation and the entirety of the fourth generation. The third…
Overview The second generation of the Toyota 4Runner, produced between 1991 and 1997, marked a transition for the nameplate from a utilitarian, pickup-based utility vehicle to a more refined SUV. While the first generation was essentially a Toyota Pickup with a fiberglass shell, this version featured a dedicated steel body integrated into the chassis. This…
Overview The second-generation Toyota 4Runner, introduced for the 1990 model year, marked a significant departure from its predecessor. While the original model was essentially a pickup truck with a removable fiberglass shell, the second generation transitioned into a dedicated SUV body style. This design change provided a more integrated look and improved cabin insulation, though…
Overview The Toyota 4Runner represents one of the longest-running nameplates in the mid-size SUV segment, maintaining a reputation for durability and off-road capability. The 2025-2026 model years mark the final phase of the fifth-generation 4Runner, a platform that has remained largely consistent since its introduction in 2010. By prioritizing mechanical simplicity and body-on-frame construction, the…
Overview The fifth generation of the Toyota 4Runner, produced between 2013 and 2024, represents a distinct era for the mid-size SUV segment. While many competitors transitioned to unibody crossover platforms to improve fuel efficiency and on-road comfort, Toyota maintained the 4Runner’s traditional body-on-frame architecture. This engineering choice solidified the vehicle’s reputation as a rugged, purpose-built…
Overview The 2010-2012 Toyota 4Runner represents the early years of the fifth generation of the nameplate. Introduced for the 2010 model year, this generation moved the 4Runner further toward a dedicated off-road focus while maintaining the body-on-frame construction that defined its predecessors. Unlike many competitors that transitioned to unibody platforms during this era, Toyota retained…
Overview The 1989-1992 Toyota 1-Ton Truck represents a specific configuration of the fifth-generation Toyota Hilux, known in the North American market simply as the Toyota Pickup. During this era, Toyota solidified its reputation for durability in the compact truck segment. The 1-Ton variant was engineered to bridge the gap between standard light-duty pickups and larger,…
Overview The Toyota 1-Ton Truck, produced between 1985 and 1988, represents a specific configuration of the N50/N60 generation of Toyota pickups. Known for its robust engineering and utility-focused design, this vehicle was engineered to bridge the gap between light-duty recreational pickups and heavy-duty commercial haulers. By utilizing a reinforced chassis and upgraded suspension components, the…
Overview The 1986 Texas Coach Company 500SL represents a specialized niche in the 1980s luxury market. Texas Coach Company, based in Dallas, gained recognition for its bespoke modifications and coach-built conversions of high-end European chassis. The 500SL model was engineered to offer a distinct alternative to the standard factory offerings of the era, focusing on…
Overview The 1986 Texas Coach Company 500SEL represents a unique chapter in the history of American luxury vehicle modifications. During the 1980s, the Texas Coach Company gained recognition for taking the Mercedes-Benz W126 chassis—widely regarded as the gold standard for executive sedans of the era—and applying bespoke interior and exterior enhancements. These vehicles were marketed…
Overview The 1986 Texas Coach Company 500SE represents a unique chapter in American automotive history, emerging from the specialized coachbuilding industry that flourished during the 1980s. Texas Coach Company, based in the United States, operated by taking existing luxury platforms and modifying them to suit a clientele seeking bespoke appointments, extended wheelbases, or specialized interior…