1988 Toyota 4Runner SR5

Location: Springfield, Illinois

Why It's Curated: This 1988 Toyota 4Runner SR5 is for sale in Springfield, Il. This exceptionally clean first-generation 4Runner represents a comprehensive restoration executed with meticulous attention to detail and significant investment. Originally from South Carolina, this rust-free example underwent a six-month professional restoration including a $10,000 paint job that showcases the truck's straight, original bodywork. The mechanical refresh centers around a replacement 22RE engine with only 76,000 miles, paired with the desirable 5-speed manual transmission and 4x4 drivetrain. The restoration extends beyond cosmetics with practical upgrades including a 3-inch Old Man Emu lift, professionally applied LineX bed coating, new rear differential, and fresh interior components while maintaining the vintage aesthetic. Complete documentation including CarFax, receipts, and the previous owner's detailed maintenance log demonstrates the care invested in this SR5. Sitting on 33-inch BF Goodrich tires with functional A/C and 4x4, this represents one of the finest restored first-gen 4Runners available.

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Model History: The first-generation Toyota 4Runner, introduced in 1984, emerged from Toyota's strategic decision to capitalize on America's growing appetite for compact sport utility vehicles. Built on the proven Hilux pickup platform, the 4Runner represented Toyota's answer to the Chevrolet Blazer II and Ford Bronco II, offering genuine off-road capability in a more manageable package than full-size SUVs. The 1988 model year marked the final year of this foundational generation, featuring refinements like improved interior appointments and the reliable 22R-E fuel-injected four-cylinder engine that became synonymous with Toyota's reputation for durability. This SR5 trim level represented the premium offering, including features like power steering, upgraded interior materials, and enhanced comfort amenities that distinguished it from base models. What sets the first-generation 4Runner apart in automotive history is its role in establishing the template for the modern compact SUV segment while maintaining authentic truck-based construction. Unlike contemporary competitors that prioritized on-road comfort, Toyota engineered the 4Runner with serious off-road credentials, including a solid rear axle, available locking rear differential, and robust ladder frame construction borrowed from the Hilux. The 22R-E engine, while modest in power output, delivered exceptional reliability and longevity that became legendary among enthusiasts. Today, clean examples of the first-generation 4Runner command premium prices due to their combination of nostalgic 1980s styling, proven mechanical simplicity, and genuine capability that modern crossovers cannot match, making them highly sought after by collectors who appreciate their honest, purpose-built character.

Vehicle Details:
Year: 1988
Make: Toyota
Model: 4Runner
Trim: Se5
Drive: 4 x 4
Miles: 76600
Mileage Verification: Actual Miles
Fuel Type: Gasoline
Transmission: Manual (3 pedals)
Number of Forward Gears: 5
Engine: 22re 4cyl 5 speed manual 4x4
Exterior Color: Black
Interior Color: Gray
State of Registration: Illinois
Vehicle Location: Springfield Illinois
VIN: Available Upon Request
Title: Clean

Details:

Engine & Transmission:
Replaced engine 22re with 76k miles. Have original odometer cluster that was paired with original engine that had been rebuilt three times and was not good enough for this restoration 312k miles

Drivetrain, Suspension, Tires & Brakes:

Wheel Size and Offset: 33’s
Tire Brand, Model, and Size: BF Goodrich K02 33x10.5x15

Exterior & Interior:
Full exterior paint restoration

Cloth interior 
Working Heat: Yes
Working Air Conditioning: Yes

Other Notable Features or Functions:
Full exterior paint restoration 10k alone

Recent Maintenance:
I’ve just finished a 6 month restoration (painted professionally) on a 1988 sr5 4runner. It’s a rust free original South Carolina car and I’m the third owner, clean car fax in hand ( I did put a new engine in it 22re manual with 75k miles). I’ve had the top professionally linexed the top/bed and it looks really sharp. It’s 100% rust free/straight and 3” lifted old man emu lift kit. It Runs perfectly and I’ve restored the interior as well but still has vintage appearance. New rear end diff, new power steering pump, battery, New dash, new altimeter , new instrument cluster and old instrument cluster included. With new full floor carpets, seats and new oem headliner/oem console etc. after market roof rack and bumpers. Undercoated. it’s ultra clean and the paint is brand new (over 10k on paint alone). Sits on bf Goodrich k03 33’s…ac/4x4 one of the best examples in the Midwest. I’ve got alll receipts/carfax and nice log of everything done since it was new from the previous owner in a spiral bound notepad.