A 25-year-old 1996 Toyota 4Runner SR5 with a five-speed manual just sold for $12,000, and that’s strong money considering its mileage and market trends.

This 4Runner is a well-loved SUV that’s spent a quarter-century with the same owner. Under the hood, you’ll find the reliable 3.4-liter 5VZ-FE V6, paired with a five-speed manual transmission. That’s a combo that appeals to buyers looking for a driving experience that’s both engaging and dependable. The Anthracite Metallic finish and Oak cloth upholstery are classic touches, while features like a sunroof and a cassette player linked to a three-disc CD changer give it that vintage charm. With 272,000 miles, this 4Runner is positioned as a capable daily driver or an interesting project vehicle for restoration.

Now, let’s talk dollars and sense. The bidding hit 34 bids, showing genuine interest in the auction. However, it sold for $12,000, which is 14% above the fair value estimate of $10,500. That means this sale is not just a little above market but a solid chunk over it, especially given the high mileage. While some may argue that a well-maintained 4Runner can command a premium, it’s hard to ignore the fact that a vehicle with this kind of mileage typically doesn’t fetch such a price.

Community feedback was predictably sharp, with one commenter noting, “Good luck finding another manual 4Runner in this condition.” That sentiment resonates with buyers who value the manual transmission option, which is becoming increasingly rare in the 4Runner lineup.

For buyers on the hunt for a similar vehicle, keep an eye on the mileage and the service history. A high-mileage SUV can still be a great daily driver, but you’ll want to ensure that the major components have been well cared for. Look for receipts and documentation proving regular maintenance. That’s often what separates a good buy from a money pit. In this case, while the final sale price was steep, someone clearly saw potential and value in this well-loved 4Runner.

See all Toyota 4Runner (N180) listings on [Friday's Watchlist](https://fridayswatchlist.com/search?make=Toyota&model=4Runner%20(N180)).