The Toyota Tacoma is a classic example of 'looks don't matter'. This pickup truck is one of the most plain-looking models to have graced the industry, but even today, people swear by its durability and reliability. Despite the invasion of modern trucks, the craze for the Tacoma is still pretty high and it doesn't seem like it will die anytime soon. Because of this, the Tacoma enjoys a high resale value. Tacomas that have clocked five-, or six-digit miles still manage to sell in the used market without any effort. The latest example of the same was a mint-condition 2000 Tacoma that had just 7,000-odd miles on the odo. Despite being a 19-year old model, the owner demanded $14,000 for it, and I'm guessing it was sold pretty soon because the original poster has already deleted the ad.

That's One Particularly Well-Maintained Tacoma

If not for the basic layout, the truck in question does not look like a 19-year old example. It is in an immaculate condition inside-out. There is a side-step bed, which is not very common on the Tacoma. The cabin and seats are stain-free and nothing inside seems to be in a poor condition. Considering it's a work truck, people will have apprehensions about its low-running miles and may even think that the odometer has been tampered with. But, seeing the condition overall, one can put all such thoughts to rest.

Either way, power is sent to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The infotainment system in this truck is a classic cassette player that people from the previous millennium will remember. The handbrake is also a pull-and-twist type, which went into extinction almost a decade back.

Why Does It Demand Such A High Asking Price?

The Toyota Tacoma debuted in 1995, and the above example belongs to the first generation. It came with three engine options - a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 142 horses, a 2.7-liter, four-cylinder that develops 150 horsepower, and a 3.6-liter, V-6 unit that produces 190 horses. The former two could just about get the work done, but it was the V-6 that stole the hearts. Back then, pickup trucks were loud and not-so-smooth; but the Tacoma changed everything. The overall refinement and quality was par excellence as per segment standards, and they were very reliable and durable as well.

Final Thoughts

It comes as no surprise that the Tacoma sold pretty fast. We have seen examples where the truck has been treated like a stepson and still managed to sell at a high price. Perhaps, this is why even today the Tacoma is sold in huge volumes. People vouch for the older Tacomas, and if it has run just 7,000-odd miles, then its a gem waiting to be picked up. Oh wait, there's no waiting. It's probably gone. But don't worry, you will be able to find loads of Tacomas on the used market. What are your thoughts on the Toyota Tacoma? Share them with us in the comments section below.

Further reading

Read our full review on the 2020 Toyota Tacoma.