OT: Toyota Landcruiser

[WestCoastSVX]

I think of you all as family, and this is one of the first places I go when I am looking for opinions on things. We've got a diverse group here and accumulated knowledge on just about everything.

What do you guys (and gals) think of the Toyota Landcruiser? I know the old ones are legendary off roaders and the newer ones are great luxury SUVs/status symbols.

I'm interested in the 91-96 range, any information or opinions.

Thanks!

[Mr. Pockets]

I'll vouch for Toyota trucks. I had a pickup that was nothing short of my best friend. It very rarely required service. Mine was also loaded with every option - and everything worked right up to the end.

There were rumors that Toyota would bring us a new Jeep-like Land Cruiser like those of old. But that was a couple years ago, and I've heard nothing since then.

I would also take a look at the Mitsubishi Montero from the same period. I can't speak for their reliability, but they're fantastic vehicles. I lusted after one for some time and almost bought it. The 4WD system is very cool - 2WD, part-time 4WD and full-time 4WD modes.

[mattski]

I had an 89 Montero that was a great truck but it developed what appears to be a common valve seal leak which caused it to burn oil and ultimately forced me to get rid of it because it could not pass inspection.

Toyota is probably a better choice.

Matt

[Mr. Pockets]

Originally posted by mattski
I had an 89 Montero that was a great truck but it developed what appears to be a common valve seal leak which caused it to burn oil and ultimately forced me to get rid of it because it could not pass inspection.

Toyota is probably a better choice.

Matt

In terms of overall reliability, I'd be inclined to agree with you. But I thought I'd present Troy with another option that, while maybe not as reliable, is still a vehicle I'd recommend.

[WestCoastSVX]

Thanks Nick, the Montero was actually also something I was considering, especially since I believe they had a 3rd row seat option. In my opinion, Toyota is pretty much 2nd to none in reliability and I've always been a big Landcruiser fan.

Other options are welcome though, I'll shed a little more light on this to narrow down my criteria.

Without going into all the reasons, I'll state it simply that my wife and I really need a vehicle that can comfortably seat 6 or 7. We know what many will say is the most practical solution is a van, mini or otherwise, but hey, I drive an SVX so you can deduce where praticality falls on priorities. I might actually be swayed to reason, but my wife for whatever reasons, would never be.

So that pretty much leaves us with a larger SUV, but rest assured all of it's capacity would be used, and when it wasn't all being used it would be sitting in the driveway saving gas.

Only other criteria besides 3rd row seating is it would probably have to be under $20,000.

I actually know of lot of them, but about half just started having 3 rows in the last year or so, which puts the price out of reach. I'll see what people come up with though...

Thanks!

[Beav]

The Landcruisers are tough hombres but when something breaks you had better be caught up on your prayers. Can you say cha-ching?

[Subafreak]

Originally posted by mattski
I had an 89 Montero that was a great truck but it developed what appears to be a common valve seal leak which caused it to burn oil and ultimately forced me to get rid of it because it could not pass inspection.

Toyota is probably a better choice.

Matt

Come on, a Mitsu with a valve seal problem? I don't belive it!

[benebob]

Toyotas are decent aside from when they break down. That is one of the most complicated engines in a truck! Parts are very pricey. If you're looking for a 6-7 seater that doesn't need to tow that much what about a Volvo wagon? I know you're thinking it doesn't have the same kinda room but as far as 3rd seat comfort you might actually get me to agree to sit back there. Something I won't do in a Discover, Expoder, Expedition, Trailblazer, Land Cruiser. Plus I'm not sure who you are planning to put back there but keep in mind that there are very few regulations beyond having seat belts for 3rd seat passenger safety. To my knowledge all of the vehicles listed above aside from the volvo do not have side impact bars and other safety features you would expect to find on a vehicle made today. You're just as safe buying a SUV that doesn't have a 3rd seat and spending the $800 to have a shop put one in for ya.

[Mr. Pockets]

I was actually behind a Volvo wagon this morning on the way to work. We were sitting at a stoplight, and I saw the kids in the third row, so I thought of Troy.

The wagon was a V70R (I think) with AWD. Pretty neat.