I'm debating between a 100 series and a 5th gen 4runner for the wife. The 4runner would be 3 times the cost of the LC, have new technology, lower miles, and about the same cargo capacity. Any glaring reason to go for one over the other?
Knowing you a little bit and your amazing fix it skills and frugality, I would put you in a low mileage 4th Gen 4Runner and claim it as the best of all worlds:
1. Cheaper than the 100 - easier to work on the suspension - best IFS design out there with swap-able (not pressed) hubs, 2-bolt on LBJs, tons of mods available, etc.
2. Also made in Japan - so a quality product like the 100
3. I personally love the 2UZ with the A750f 5-speed, which is available in all 4th Gens, no V8s in 5th Gens
4. Save on a lot of depreciation vs the 5th Gen
5. Better gas mileage than the 100
6. More rear leg room vs the 5th Gen
7. Seems to be the real "value" sweet spot in pricing as a REALLY clean later model one can be ~$15k
The unicorn is the 2009 Sport Edition with the rear locking diff . .

- -but I think only comes in the V6.
Of course this recommendation will also open up the GX470 to the list
