I am in the market for a used TOYOTA pickup, and Im trying to learn the
differences between different years, options packages, engines, etc.
I especially would like to know the differences between the Tacoma
(1995-on) and the Pickup (up to 1995), as some have told me that the
older engine is actually better in terms of longevity.
I found one great website (http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/faq/) with a
toyota pickup timeline but it only goes up to just before the Tacoma. 
Something like that would be perfect.
Dont necessarily need it all typed just for me, a really good link(s)
to this information would be Great.
Im looking for extended cab (required),  a/c, sliding rear window,
bedliner, manual trans, slightly bigger than stock tires, 4x4.  these
things would all be bonus features for me.  Im pretty sure they are
all available all of the years, but I would like to know what else
separates the years, and especially WHAT DIFFERENTIATES (in style AND
substance) the TACOMA FROM THE 1995 PICKUP??

thanks!

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Clarification of Question by ralph_desmond-ga on 08 Dec 2004 23:48 PST

THANKYOU so much for your comments. more later - no time to type right now.

THANKS!

I'm just going to share with you a bit of information as I was a happy
owner of a 1993 Toyota Extended Cab Deluxe 4 cylinder 4X4 pickup for
four years. I purchased the truck with 141k drove it to 199 and sold
it to the third owner, still ticking strong.

My model was manufactured in 11/92, and had relatively few changes
since the 1990 body design change (from sharp angles to smooth lines)
some minor details exist like the front grill emblem is the toyota
symbol rather than the letters t-o-y-o-t-a. Other subtle design
changes include different side mirror positioning, speedo layout by
model, and light covers. (believe it or not I can even tell the model
year by the side graphic in the pre-94 models.) Out of chronology, the
biggest design offering in the early 80s was the raved about solid
front axle. My friend actually purchased a 94 when I owned the 93, my
other friend had an 88 and yet another a 90. SO in this pool of
toyotas and my keen eye I was able to note the many subtle
differences.

Aesthetically there are some other slight changes from 93 to Tacoma
era, no more key lock on the gas cap and a cheaper factory bumpers.
Internally and mechanically most things stayed the same through 95.
Interior colors and the discontiuation of the side decal. No
mechanically the 22-RE which I believe is a DOHC has been hailed by
toyota enthusiasts as the best engine ever built by toyota. My 200k
and sale for more than 3k is a testament to this statement. the 3.3 V6
was also a formitable beast.

To my knowledge the toyota's today are even more refined than their
tough forefathers. I pushed my truck to the limit, 45 degree sand
walls, door panel swamp water, 1200 mile loaded hauls to college and
back, donuts through the snow, low gear pulling, and on and on. They
are tough as nails. For value the 4 cylinder is the ticket. How many
1990s Ford Rangers and Dodge Dakotas are on the road with 200k and
original engine and one replacement clutch? Not too many, open your
eyes and you'll see how many Toyota's are still out there working
hard.

Well I guess my knowledge is on the older models, a low mileage v-6
with all options from 94-99 would probably serve your every need,
unless you have the cash float for the 05 model, but remember you're
paying for depreciation.

Unfortunatley I sold my Toyota, and now I drive a newer but far
insuperior Ford Explorer. The Japanese refinement and simplicity of
design of the older models was and still is a functional thing of
beauty.

This is a little off your topic, but may be helpful:

http://www.brian894x4.com/Hiluxdifferences.html