The '89 - '95 truck is probably the best truck Toyota built up to that time, in terms of overall quality, but for pure 4x4 capability it's hard t beat a solid axle truck or 4runner from '79 - '85. Of course it all depends on what you want the truck to do. And what you are willing to do and spend on the truck. If you just do trail running an IFS truck may be good for you. If you want to get into really technical terrain you will need a solid front axle.

If you are willing to spend and/or do major modifications you might buy that '93 and do a solid axle swap (SAS). You will also have to buy an adapter so you can replace the chain drive transfer case with an R1FA gear type case (or two cases. If you are going to go that far you'll also want lower gears and lockers in the differentials. And then there's the question of what tires and wheels to run. And don't forget rear suspension bits to match the SAS front. Figure you'll spend about $5000 (if you do most of the labor)in addition to the price of the vehicle.

I'm a fan of the '84 -'85 xtra cab pickup and the 4runner of the same years. Unfortunately they're not so easy to find these days; when you do they can run $5000 (especially the xtra cab) if they are rust free and in good condition. Of course there are sometimes deals to be found for less.

There's my two cents worth. -- Matt