My son turns 16 this year, and income tax money will be here next week.

I've been torn between the S-10 (1994 through whatever year I can afford)
or the Ford Ranger

I'm leaning more toward the S-10. I've been told to find one with the 4 cylinder engine, and automatic. I like the looks of the extended cabs, and I like the 4wd models.

My price range is $3500 or less. I know absolutely nothing about the S-10's. We've only owned full size Chevy (with a 2005 Tahoe in the current fleet)

With that price range, what would you look for? 4 cylinder, 6 cylinder? 2wd or 4wd (We live in Tennessee, so it's not like we are driving in snow, or taking it off road for that matter) What are some common issues to look out for?

I really don't want him to have a stick shift unless the auto's are a problem area.

Thanks in advance for your suggestions and help. Until then, I'll keep reading through the posts in this section.

 

One thing you should also look at is insurance. I think with an automatic it would be cheaper. Also with a 4 cylinder vrs. a six. I'd prefer a six over a four cylinder even if the insurance was a little higher.

 

With the cost of gas rising the thing to look for is a truck that will give fuel economy. A 2WD and a 4 cylinder is the way to go for a 16 yr old who will probably have trouble keeping gas in it.

 

My mother had a blazer (87 or 88 I believe) that had the 4.3 v6 and it had no power at all. I've driven a 1995 s-10 with the 4cyl and it wasn't too bad. I'm figuring the 4cyl would be easier on the boys pocket book and keep him from smoking the tires.

As gas as insurance, I'll have to call and find out.

 

I have a 99 with the 4.3 V-6 and it has plenty of power and pickup. There must have been something wrong with that Blazer. Anyway for a 16 yr old I still think a 4cyl. is better.