VVT engine considerations

[Evan Northcutt]

Hello all, hope everyone had good holidays

I am going to be buying a 100 series this year, especially since it seems weather extremes are now the norm in my state >.>. I have been looking at slees comprehensive list of the differences in the models and I see where in 2006 they changed the motor some and increased HP by about 35. Thats about a 9% increase in horsepower which in the grand scheme of things isn't super major but could make a difference. So I have been looking at 2006-2007 100 series which seriously limit my options.

I am aware of the mods and performance enhancing options, I was just curious if people are getting over that HP gap fairly easy? Because if Im going to be spending my money I want the best model I can get. I dont want to keep being limited by 35hp difference on trails or be wishing I had more of that power going down the road, which I feel like I would but yall are way more experienced than I.

So, is it make or break to get those years with the engine?

(please dont blast me on some technical vehicle terms or lack of automotive knowledge)

 

[jLB]

Short answer: No.

Longer answer: The VVTI engine breathes a little better on the top end. Nice to have but not mandatory. I personally would put more weight into the 5spd (03+) vs. 4spd than I would VVTI vs non-VVTI.

(This subject has been discussed ad nauseum on this forum. Try "VVTI" in the search box.)

 

[Evan Northcutt]

Ah I really didn't think to search, felt stupid for asking in first place so I figured no one else would ask lol but thanks for answer

 

[SWUtah]

The vvti has a air pump for emissions, costly and or bothersome to fix. If your handy and have the skills you can fix it with a work around. There are threads on this issue and the fix. There are other owners of 2006-2007's that have had a problem in hot conditions with engine stalling, but after awhile it starts back up. Don't know if anyone has figured out a solution or even what is causing since it is not real common but is happening. Other then these two things buy the most rust free lowest mileage that has the most service records 100 you can afford. Basic difference between LX and LC is the AHC suspension, except a lot of 2006-2007 LC's came with AHC. I went with an OME 2" lift suspension at 120 k miles on my LX. Love the look the ride and it's simple and dependable. Just do a lot of reading ask questions and buy one.