1st Generation Tundras vs 2nd Generation Tundras

Are 1st generation tundras more reliable than 2nd generation tundras? Are did each generation have a history of specific issues?

 

I'm not sure if either is more reliable but the 4.7L in the 1st gens is known to go the distance. Not that the 5.7L isn't. Both are great engines. There have been two documented Tundras hit 1,000,000 miles and both had the 4.7L V8.

You're really comparing apples to oranges though. The 2nd gens are going to be a much more modern vehicle with a lot more features and comforts. The 1st gen is a lot more of what a truck used to be. Now they are luxury vehicles. I'd love to have a newer Toyota truck but the size of the 2nd gens is a huge turnoff for me. They are way too big for my needs. And the gas mileage is abysmal.

You just have to determine what your needs are and then I believe the choice will become more obvious. Go drive one of each also.

 

1st Gen is smaller and I got way more for my money than the 2nd gen. I think there is some really weird styling details on the 2nd gens. The 2nd gens have more power and all around are just bigger. If you want a bigger truck with more power then get a 2nd gen. If you want a smaller truck for usually less money and generally better fuel economy then get a 1st gen.

My 1st gen with factory gears and 35" tires gets an average of around 13.5-14.5 mpg. I think that's about what a stock 5.7 gets in the 2nd gen.

 

I didn't realize the fuel economy in the 1st gen was better than the 2nd gen. I previously owned a 1st gen Tacoma with the 3.4 V6 and 5 speed manual, and I was getting mixed maybe 1 mpg better than the 2nd/3rd gen Tundra I have now. I wonder what the figures were like side by side for the 1st gen Tundras and Tacomas.

 

Not a fan of the 2nd or turd (3rd) Gens, but will probably end up in one in the future due to no better options. They are big and bulky styling wise. The 2nd Gen seats seem like they don’t offer the headroom of the 1st Gen.

The 5.7L engine is the best thing going outside of everything else better that the 1st Gen offers.

I hope a return to smaller trucks with better styling is in the future of all manufacturers.

 

I share your hope for a return to at least slightly smaller trucks. That said, in 20 years, the average "half ton" pickup will probably be as large as a 1 ton dually, will make 700 horsepower, and will cost as much as a house.

 

The 2005 Double Cab is only 2” shorter than a 2007 Crew Max and the width is within an inch apart.
The 07+ trucks just have body lines that make it look much bigger.

My 5.7 crew max gets 16mpg highway with a lift and 34” tires.

I bought a tundra specifically so I had a truck to tow with. I went for an 07+ for the 5.7L engine for max towing capabilities.