What is a 1st gen 4Runner worth?

Prices for a first-generation Toyota 4Runner vary widely but typically fall in the low to mid five figures for pristine examples, with many driving-condition cars landing in the mid-teens to low-20s. In practice, expect roughly $12,000–$28,000 for running vehicles, with higher figures for well-preserved, original, or restored units.

Market snapshot: current value ranges

Market values reflect how close a given vehicle is to original condition, its service history, and the seller’s location. The bands below capture typical asking and sale trends seen in the U.S. market as of 2025.

• $8,000–$15,000 — Project cars, rust issues, or non-running units needing significant work


• $15,000–$25,000 — Running, driver-quality examples with some cosmetic wear


• $25,000–$40,000 — Clean, stock or well-maintained units with documented history


• $40,000–$60,000 — Restored or very low-mileage/original survivors with strong provenance


• $60,000–$90,000+ — Show-quality, ultra-original, or rare variants; auctions can occasionally exceed these levels

Prices above reflect current market tendencies, but exact numbers hinge on condition, maintenance records, originality, and regional demand. Always compare with recent listings and auction results for a precise read on value in your area.

Variants that influence price

Not all first-generation 4Runners carry the same value. The following factors can push a car higher or lower in price depending on buyer interest and restoration quality.

• Trim and provenance: SR5 vs base models, factory options, and documented original specifications


• Drivetrain and condition: 4x4 capability, transmission type, and whether the engine is original or rebuilt


• Documentation: service history, receipts, and VIN matching numbers


• Originality vs modifications: factory-original cars often fetch premiums; highly regarded overland builds may appeal to a different buyer pool


• Condition of body and frame: rust on the frame rails, floors, and undercarriage heavily influences value

In practice, a well-documented, low-mileage, stock example in good condition will command the highest prices, while heavily modified or high-mileage units may attract buyers who value specific upgrades or restoration stories.

Buying and selling tips

To price, negotiate, or assess a 1st-gen 4Runner accurately, use a structured checklist and compare multiple sources. The list below helps buyers and sellers align expectations with market realities.

1. Inspect the frame and undercarriage for rust, especially along rockers, floor pans, and cross-members


2. Evaluate the engine, transmission, and 4x4 system for leaks, smoke, idle quality, and engagement


3. Check the interior for wear, reseats, and proper functioning gauges and A/C


4. Verify authenticity: VIN numbers, engine stamp, and title to confirm matching numbers


5. Review maintenance history and receipts to confirm regular servicing and major replacements


6. Assess originality vs modifications, noting how changes affect value for your target buyer


7. Test drive on varied terrain to evaluate suspension, steering, brakes, and steering angles


8. Factor regional supply and demand, plus shipping or import costs if buying from or selling to distant buyers

A thorough inspection and clean documentation are the best indicators of value and help set realistic expectations during negotiations.

Regional notes

Prices can vary by region due to supply, shipping costs, and local demand. In the United States, typical value bands described above apply to many markets, but in Canada, Europe, or Japan, import costs, compliance, and language of provenance can shift pricing. If you’re buying across borders, factor tariffs, transport, and potential restoration costs into your budgeting and negotiation.

Summary

For a 1st-generation Toyota 4Runner, the value hinges on condition, originality, and documentation. Expect the typical driving example to sit around the $12,000–$28,000 range, with more pristine, original, or restored units reaching well into the $40,000–$60,000 territory and beyond for show-quality survivors. Use current listings, auction results, and a careful inspection to gauge a precise value, and tailor your sticker price accordingly to local market realities.

How much is a 1987 Toyota 4Runner worth today?

Typically, you can expect to pay around $16,100 for a 1987 Toyota 4Runner in good condition with average spec.

What's special about the 1st gen 4Runner?

1st Generation
Launched with the 1984 model year, the 4Runner was more pickup truck than anything else, featuring two doors, a fiberglass frame over the rear seats and cargo area, plus the now-signature retractable windshield in the rear tailgate.

What year 4Runner to stay away from?

Years to stay away from include the 2001-2002 models due to frame rust and poor crash test scores, the 2003-2005 models for head gasket issues, significant body/frame rust, and dashboard cracking, and the 2015 model for potential airbag inconsistencies and electronic problems. 
Third Generation (1996-2002)

• 2001-2002: Prone to significant body and frame rust. They also have lower crash test scores than other years. 
• Note: These models had the manual transmission and locking rear differential eliminated, which could be less desirable for off-roading enthusiasts. 

Fourth Generation (2003-2009)

• 2003-2005: These models are considered the worst for the fourth generation due to multiple serious issues, including: 
  • Head gasket failures (especially with the V6 engine). 
  • Significant body and frame rust. 
  • Cracking dashboards. 
  • Poor safety ratings due to subpar headrests and seats. 
• 2015: This model year is notable for issues with the infotainment system, steering, and warped brake rotors. 

Fifth Generation (2010-Present)

• 2015: Had some electronic issues, like infotainment glitches, Bluetooth problems, and a tendency for brake rotors to warp. 
• 2010: Reports of electrical faults, including dashboard light and sensor malfunctions. 

How much is a 1986 Toyota 4Runner worth?

A 1986 Toyota 4Runner's value ranges from approximately $8,000$ 8 comma 000$8,000 for a project vehicle to over $30,000$ 30 comma 000$30,000 for a pristine, rare example, with a well-maintained, good-condition model averaging around $16,100$ 16 comma 100$16,100. Factors like condition, mileage, trim level, history, and modifications heavily influence the final price. For example, a clean SR5 Turbo model can be worth significantly more than a base model in similar condition.
 
Factors affecting value

• Condition: Excellent, original, or professionally restored 4Runners with no rust command the highest prices. Vehicles needing significant work will be at the lower end of the spectrum. 
• Mileage: Lower mileage is more desirable, but a well-maintained vehicle with high mileage can still be valuable. 
• Trim and Engine: SR5 models are more sought after, and the Turbo models are particularly rare and valuable. The 22RE engine is standard, but modifications can increase value if done well. 
• History: Clean titles and a documented history are positive factors. Accident history or salvage titles will significantly decrease value. 
• Modifications: Some modifications, such as those done professionally, can increase value, while others may detract from it. 

Price range examples

• Average good condition: Around $16,100$ 16 comma 100$16,100 
• Project/lower condition: As low as $8,000$ 8 comma 000$8,000 
• High-end/excellent condition: Up to $30,000$ 30 comma 000$30,000 or more for exceptionally well-preserved or rare examples 
• Recent auction sales: Recent sales have ranged from $13,912$ 13 comma 912$13,912 to over $20,000$ 20 comma 000$20,000 for specific models