My dad has a 98 that's just like yours. The only failure it ever had was the intake manifold gasket. It started leaking coolant after 200k miles. When I pulled it apart I found that the gasket was crimped from the factory. It still took it that long to leak. Oh, and the starter solenoid contacts...
What is very telling to me is the seats. If the seats wear out in less than a couple hundred thousand miles, then the designers knew the vehicle wouldn't last.
Yes. And I don't even question whether my 07 Tacoma with 218k or my 01 Camry with 230k will take me to Florida and back. I do it all the time. I wouldn't think twice about driving either across country at a moments notice.
That would be my answer too. I would put my 07 Tacoma against any GM truck of the same year with 220k miles any day. Mine feels like it's still new, and they all feel worn out.
I had one exactly like it when I was 19. Awesome truck and I'll be buying one again some day. Mine had an upgraded chip and flow master duals on it. It was nothing to do 110-120 on the interstate. Which is why my parents talked me into selling it.
I would have gladly called the cops and handled whatever ticket they gave me to be sure he answered for damaging my vehicle. I'm sure an alleged speeding violation would be a heck of a lot cheaper than him having to fix my car.