Value of 4wd 4runner with newer engine

Hey all, looking for some opinions on what you think the described 4runnner below is worth.

I'm interested in purchasing a '97 4wd 4runner with a newer motor (35k miles), installed by a professional. The rest of the drive train has 250k. Exterior and interior has been kept in great condition, no rust. It has a new battery, and newer tires within the last couple of years. My concern is overpaying and dealing with having to replace the transmission and other components within the next couple years that could be close to the end of their useful lives. Let me know what you think!

Thanks.

 

I'm going to sound stupid and/or intentionally obtuse but it depends on how much you want to pay and what your expectations are.

It's a truck that's about to tick over three decades of existence, no matter what - even with a strong foundation - it's going to have things go wrong or need attention like rubber bits, door handles, ball joints, suspension, if 4WD hasn't been used since the Obama administration parts may be stuck, etc.

The engine (assuming all stock which it likely is) is a plus.

But there's no crystal ball on how much life is left on any given part so this is a gamble you have to decide what you're comfortable with and what the seller is willing to accept.

If you get a mechanic to inspect it, you may get a better view of what condition it's in.

A comprehensive maintenance history would be nice. I'd pay more for a vehicle where the rear differential has seen a couple oil replacements (or more) as opposed to never like my dad's RAV4.

 

2k. Max

 

I'm looking at this as being a daily driver. Owner claims he has lots of service records, so hypothetically let's say it's in as good of shape as it possibly can be for that mileage with original parts / drivetrain (minus the engine). $7k too high? Even at this age, these vehicles seem to hold ridiculously high prices, and as much as I love them I think they're overvalued. But the point of the post is to get a feel for what everyone would be willing to pay if it was them.

 

7 is fine. Look closely at the frame, and hammer test. There isn’t much that can go wrong on these, but be prepared to change a lot of the rubbers over time