FAST

FACTS

The DOHC 3.4L V6 (5VZ-FE), which replaced the SOHC 3.0L in 1995, offered a substantial power boost of +40hp and +40 lb ft
The 3.0L SOHC that came before it featured a forged steel crankshaft, despite making only 150 horsepower. This is because the 3.0L was engineered in the ’80s – a time when manufacturers were overbuilding engines as a safeguard due to the lack of modern computer software and tooling (when in doubt, make it stronger). This is why the time period produced bulletproof blocks like Toyota’s 2JZ and Mitsubishi’s 4G63
When it came time to develop the 3.4L, Toyota’s new software made them realize how unnecessary a forged crank was for a sub-200hp motor. The decision was made to switch to a cast crankshaft, despite putting out 40hp/40 ft-lb over the previous powerplant
This does nothing to take away from the fact that the 3.4L is one of Toyota’s most dependable V6 engines ever made. And quite frankly, the more powerful (and fuel-efficient) 3.4L cars can hit 60 MPH over 3 seconds faster than 3.0L cars

Key Model Year Changes:

2002 (pictured) is the final year of the 3rd gen 4Runner, which is only available with an automatic transmission. 2002 also sees extra exterior chrome and 15″ aluminum wheels as standard. New trouble Codes: P1782 and P1783 for detecting 4WD transfer position
The 2002 4Runner came in two trim levels: SR5 and Limited. Each could be optioned with either 2WD or 4WD (shown here). 4WD can be engaged at speeds up to 62 mph
2001 is the final year for the manual transmission option
The most significant changes occur in 2001

Specs:

3.4L V6 (5VZ-FE)	4spd auto (A340F) or 5spd manual (excl. 2002MY)
183 hp @ 4800 RPM	217 lb/ft torque @ 3600 RPM
0-60 MPH: 10 seconds	Top Speed: 110 MPH
Base Price in 2002:	$26,845