What kind of vehicle is best for Puna?

[birdmove]

We have a 2004 Toyota Tacoma 2 wheel drive, automatic, standard cab. We shipped it to Hilo form Seattle via Matson at a cost of about $1100 in 2011. It is the perfect vehicle for us. I can haul full sized 8' x 4' plywood, 8-10' 2x4's, etc, etc. I think I could sell a dozen of these here in no time at all. Mine was bought new, and came here pre-dented (thanks to my son), and fit right in. I get strangers walking up to me to ask if it's for sale. None has taken my tailgate. I think 2004 was the last year for the small sized Tacomas. I don't need 4 wheel drive, and I think it just adds unneded complexity and extra maintenance. We have a Toyota dealer in Hilo.

But, if you are going to move somewhere where the roads are REALLY bad, or that floods often,maybe 4 wheel would be desirable.

I ride motorcycles, scooters, even bicycles quite often, as I much prefer 90 mpg to 24-25 mpg.

Jon in Keaau/HPP