MySwag.org The Off-road Camper Trailer Forum
General => General Discussion => Topic started by: briann532 on December 17, 2012, 04:17:29 PM
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After 3 new patrols over the last 13 years, I am thinking of trading in again. Please no grenade jokes I've heard every one time and time again and other than the usual clutch at 160K kms I've had 13 years of trouble free nissaning all over the Gillard ruined land.
As most would already know the new patrol comes out in January (supposedly) but I would never ever buy the first of anything.
I also don't like the idea of a petrol V8 - Well actually I really really do, but I don't want one for towing in the outback. (Can we please not go there either!!! I've heard every petrol vs diesel argument there is. I prefer diesel, its my choice, can we let it be?)
The problem I have is I don't really want the new 'landcruiser' rip-off-looking patrol, that is sizing up to be overpriced and a first series that is going to have teething problems.
The only alternative is a cruiser which I can't afford, a defender which I'd rather walk, (sorry to all the landy lovers, but I reckon they're ugly - choice again please don't shoot!!!) or a discovery.
Now I know there are plenty other options, but I've had utes and I don't really like them for travelling. The boss lady also uses it as her daily driver and doesn't want a ute.
This leaves me with the relatively well priced and extremely well optioned discovery 4 TDV6.
Now I would never had considered one, but damn they look good, have heaps of features, plenty of power, good economy and go well off road.
Only downfall is the small tank - 82 litres I believe.
Can someone please talk me out of it with factual or at least slightly true opinions of why not to get one.
I'm worried, I'm going to have to starting drinking soy latte and wearing a sweater.......... :-[ :-[ :-[
Seriously - they do look like a great option.
If any swaggers have one or have knowledge of them, any advice appreciated as its an expensive long term investment.
Cheers
Brian
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Love mine so far, only 25k on it so far. Also running the 2.7l engine. Has plenty of get up for me and plenty of options. I have not had one hiccup yet. Service prices can vary abut from place to place. AULRO forum is great for a wealth of information and tips and how to tips. (http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/12/17/e4ydyha8.jpg)
A little eye candy for ya!! I think the fuel economy is very reasonable as well. If you work for a company that grosses over 30million a year you qualify for 3 yrs of corporate servicing. (http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/12/17/usege5e3.jpg)
Have not taken it that seriously of road yet, but what I have done can't fault it..
I am taking it to the cape next year for a month.
Mods done. Arb winch bar, red arc remote head brake, Arb compressor under bonnet and traxide dual battery kit.
Things to do still. Snorkel, roof rack, spotties rock sliders and of road tyres.
Feel free to ask anything
Cheers billy
Sent from Billy's iPhone using Tapatalk
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Is that rig parked on a rock to try & slow the oil leaks or is it easier to wipe oil off a solid surface ??? ;D ;D ;D >:D
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Is that rig parked on a rock to try & slow the oil leaks or is it easier to wipe oil off a solid surface ??? ;D ;D ;D >:D
It had to happen didn't it...............
I must confess I'm a mad toyota v nissan nut............
It never stops at our 4wd club......... ;D ;D ;D
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Is that rig parked on a rock to try & slow the oil leaks or is it easier to wipe oil off a solid surface ??? ;D ;D ;D >:D
Ya there's always one or two that stir it up....lol. My good mate has a 200 series so I'm sure we will be having the good ole mines better....... Yadda yadda. Ole weldin did come for a drive a couple of weeks ago and commented on how comfortable it is.
Not a single drop of oil or fluids to speak of, also have not had to TOP up my oil as others do( cough cough) and service schedule is every 24k though I do mine every 12.
They are a nice vehicle with a host of features and well priced!
Sent from Billy's iPhone using Tapatalk
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Have you driven one yet? It is a unique driving position.
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Actually I have driven one.
I also had the opportunity to drive one round the 4wd test track at Eastern Creek a while ago.
I think that's what gave me the idea....
I do know exactly what you mean about the driving position though..... :D
I drive a lot of different cars regularly for work and have just bought a hyundai i-load. Now that takes a lot of getting used to.........
I reckon it would just be a case of drive it a few k's till you get used to it.
Clutches, gear levers etc all seem to feel different when you change vehicles.
The misses gives me heaps when I drive the patrol after I haven't for a while. The heavy duty clutch is pretty much bang on and bang off. Very little give in it.......
Still up in the air and I guess a little disappointed, as I was pretty sure I would be getting a new patrol next year.
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Well you know what you're in for then :)
I am also looking for a new 4by as the Prado is coming out of lease soon, dunno whether to keep it or trade it. The issue I have is a 2050mm height limit from the car park at the office. I was looking at the 200 Altitude but at 1950mm stock it would be well over 2050mm with tyres and suspension. The Prado squeezes in now with a full load of fuel on-board. You can get into a 2012 200 Altitude diesel auto for $90K drive away, that's down from $100K a few months ago.
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Disco4, I'd have one...... if I could afford it
Comfort and features, capable off-road. Its only a rangerover or g wagon that rivals for same.
I'd have one. I'd love onê.
Sorry,if you can afford it, I'm not going to attempt to talk you out of it.......
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I was a landy nut for 5 vehicles, the thing that turned me off was shipping one back to fix all the tricked up electronics from central australia, LR "request" they are the only ones who can fix the broken stuff, if not no warranty.
Distance between service intervals is also reduced if driven in harsh conditions, ie not blacktop.
The driving position is unique, i liked having the drivers window open all the time :)
There are heaps of accessories available from the UK
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How is resale standing up for d4
(Not stirring just a serious consideration)
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At least it isn't a Jeep.
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According to the RACQ the following won the best 2012 All Terrain 4WD - Land Rover Discovery 4 SDV6 SE
2nd Jeep Grad Cherokee Laredo CRD
3rd Toyota Prado GXL
Kevin
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I've got one mate, had it for just on 12 months and I love it.
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............ the new patrol comes out in January (supposedly) but I would never ever buy the first of anything..........
Can understand what you're getting at, but I bought my Series 1 GU brand spanking new in Jan 2000, and it's been great.......
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G'day Brian,
After a Paj, and two 3 litre Patrols I went Landcruiser, mostly because I was so p!ssed off at Nissan. For the period I wasn't a Cruiser owner, I could never see the value in them.
Now that I am a Cruiser owner, I can better see the value (though I admit their price is a bit OTT) and don't regret for one second my purchase. In actual fact I lease it (Novated) and the repayments on the Cruiser aren't much more than the old ST-L 'Trol it replaced.
And I'll tell you, towing with 650nm of torque, is wonderful. ;D
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And I'll tell you, towing with 650nm of torque, is wonderful. ;D
......skite....... ;D ;D
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Firstly, Id love to be in your position of buying anything new/near new.
Secondly, you seem to change over pretty regularly.
That being the case, if you are thinking of a vehicle with a 4 to 5 year lifespan, I cant see a downside with the Disco. Perhaps if longer, cyclic maintenance costs may hit you harder?
They do seem like good value for that kind of price point.
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My main reason for asking is that I am giving serious consideration to buying one instead of a new patrol.
I figure that if I have to spend around that sort of money (new nissan set to be around 85k) then I want to get something better for the money.
I realise the cruisers are in the same price bracket, but when I looked into it and started adding options, the disco seems to have a lot more bang for bucks.
And not just a little, quite significantly more.
I have always gone for the patrol as I do actually prefer the cruisers ( may god forgive me for what I just said ??? :-[ >:D), but I could never justify the money for a wagon that my kids would spill milkshakes in and trash with sand, maccas toys and the odd spot of leakage. I really didn't believe the extra cost warranted a better vehicle.
Now that the patrol is a similar price, (o.k. it seems to come with more toys now) but it has got me thinking.
My off road needs have changed a lot over the years too.
I no longer swag it through the high country or drive up Zeka spur. I avoid mud puddles as I hate cleaning the car, and sadly, I'm growing up.
These days I pull the camper along dirt roads and or tracks to a quite spot on a river, do an outback trip once a year and lets face it most tracks these days are 2wd.
Last time I drove the Oodnadatta it was better that the Hume highway.
My thinking now is that if I've got to fork over the dollars, at least when I buy a disco, I'm getting power comfort and a bit more luxury for my money.
I really cant afford a VX Sahara or a TI patrol and don't think it would be value anyway.
Now the kids are a bit older 5 and 7, I think I could keep a Disco clean for the next 6 or 7 years till I trade again.
I guess I'm not only asking for thoughts on them, but any troubles or advice that would sway my decision.
My only negative would be serviceability in the outback, but really you can get that with any car.
What happens if a new patrol or cruiser blows a sensor or meter in Dalhousie. You're no less screwed than if a disco does the same.
I also like the idea of a more comfy car around town.
I was also hoping someone could tell me or prove I had gone mad, so I could rethink, but now I'm even more confused as I think I really do want one.
As far as money goes................................. I have a little secret.
Miss 5 starts school next year so no more day care fees................WOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.
And yes at $92 a day, it more than covers the repayments.
:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
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I really cant afford a VX Sahara or a TI patrol and don't think it would be value anyway.
Have you looked at the Altitude? It is a GXL with some VX fruit.
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havent read teh whole thread, but what about a Paj or Prado? I'd have either 10 times before a disco.
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Personally I'd steer clear of Land Rover / Range Rover. Heard way too many horror stories. Might be ok if you plan too change it before the warranty is up, otherwise it may get costly. A mate of mine had a Range Rover Sport and absolutely loved the way it drove, the power it had and the economy it gave, but in the end just got sick of taking it back for warranty issues, some minor some not so. Also apparently service costs were nasty.
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I bought a 2nd hand 2008 Disco 3 TDV6. As for holding its value, redbook had the value of these cars listed 5K less than the actual market. This was for un modified SE spec with med-low KMs.
A major plus for the Disco's is air suspension...all I can say is its bloody fantastic...never knew that safe comfortable offroad travel could exist.
Oh and the 7 seats are a godsend for anyone with longer legs! I can fit into rear most seats no worries and I am 6'4".
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We had a landrover for a couple of years,I personally thought they were great, we had it serviced by a landrover specialist and his advise to me was if your going to travel a bit stick with the likes of the nissans and landcruiser, as it's a long tow back to the garage. We now have a landcruiser.
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My friend and colleague Allan Whiting has just sold his D3, it did nearly 200kkm all over Oz, around half of that was off road, doing magazine travel articles, i don't think he had any dramas with his and it was loaded with Long Ranger tank etc
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Just went through this myself and choose the 200, I haven’t ordered yet but will soon.
just some observations. price wise i see little between them, you talk of cruiser options but the minute you want a LR option its bend over big time. The final clincher for me was
My 3 kids were more comfortable in the 200
There is more usable rear compartment room in the 200
On the day i went out to make a decision the Disco that had been relocated to the showroom did strange things, the windows wouldn’t work properly and the GPS wouldn’t work. The salesman blew this off as low battery voltage, which i had read is an issue but it didn’t sit well with me.
The other thing is the lift compressors seem to fail if given a hard time, source JK and Aulro, i like the high country and although i don’t get there enough that appears to be were they will fail.
I always think of Dazzlers quote in a similar thread some time ago. With Landrover you have to want to own one.
The GX cruiser for $78k the GXL $84 VX cruiser for around 93-94k, sh1t load of money yes but resale on the cruisers is still damn good. if you look at residuals, know your miles etc you can keep repayments down with confidence.
Many of the above reasons are irrelevant to you so good luck, I think they are a pretty good thing. BTW someone has to say it, have you look at the new Jeep with pneumatic suspension? I had one follow me down the high country in dead standard form and it went up monument track pretty comfortably even with HTs.
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No I'm not talking you out of it, love our D4, I'm not going to lie, I was pretty pissed off when the compressor failed in the High Country, but there were 2 other makes that failed on the same trip, LR replaced the compressor with the new upgraded AMK compressor, which is supposed to be a lot better(Made in Germany) the Old compressors were made in Japan.
I wouldn't swap our D4 for anything, on road they are amazing, offroad they even more amazing, 50,000ks on the clock now in 12mths, love it.
Would I buy a new 200 Cruiser, yes I would, to be honest, the difference between the D4 and the 200 Cruiser is only brand loyalty, both cars are brilliant and both have there issues, something all electronic vehicles have nowadays, both hold there value well too, you only have to look at Carsales to see that.
Baz.
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I know you said not to mention V8 petrols ... but the V8 petrol 200 has better fuel consumption than you might think (judging by a number of reports on lcool, and also the official numbers are pretty good). Large tank (140L??) also gives you better range than the disco.
Going for the petrol would save you about $10k versus the diesel.
Or get a second hand 100 TD.
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Personally I like all new 4WD, comfortable to drive, all the mod cons etc.
BUT I will stick to my 2000 model 100 series with less electronics and less chance of hassles. I can do water crossings and not have electronic problems which is the big problem these days with new 4WD's. I bought my cruiser for $17,000 last year , have only 130,000 klms on it and spent $1500 for extras on it and it does me. ;D
Good luck with your decision.
Mark
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They are cheaper for a reason........ some times you dont want "bang" for your buck... just saying >:D
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I know it wouldn't work as a daily driver but in that price range I would at least look at the Iveco Daily 4X4. Not a lot of info on them as they are a truck but 6 speed 3 transfer case ratios (=24 gears) and > 2 tonne carrying capacity with such handy things as cruise contro,l ABS etc. The twin cab has great seating. Here's an early review http://www.goannatracks.com/Home/Iveco_Daily_4x4.html (http://www.goannatracks.com/Home/Iveco_Daily_4x4.html)
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I came from a patrol myself, GUIV that I had for six years and now I've had my disco for 18 months. It's like chalk and cheese, the comfort and ride difference is extraordinary. Corrugations that made the patrol jump sideways don't even get felt in the disco.
A couple of my friends have 200 series, and they trucks in every sense of the word...they are big! Comfortable but big, depends how good a reverse Parker you are, or how tight the tracks you might drive would be.
Horses for courses, every brand has their pluses and minuses and all have their horror stories (mostly told by the jealous opposition), but I love my disco! :-*
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I love Minibloodhound's D4 too, mind you I am a Land Rover lover (we have a Defender and a Range Rover Sport), but the comfort level not to mention the ease with which the Disco seems to tackle every obstacle make it a great choice.
Straight off the showroom floor, this 'truck' will go anywhere. I think this was Clancy the D4's first time off road, and was still on street rubber: D4 Official Offroad Test.mov (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aBsaYpijlo#ws)
Yes Land Rovers do have the odd problems, but what new 4wd doesn't these days with all the electrics in them?
Land Rover Australia can be a pain if your 4wd is still under warranty as they don't like anyone else to work on their trucks, but they do look after you and pay for transportation and accomms costs where a lot of others wouldn't.
The main downside with the D4 is that when the windows are up, you're insulated a bit from the outside world...you don't hear road noise or feel any bumps ::)
Here's another mates stock 200 series on it's first (?) off road outing. I can't comment on the comfort factor, though the owner of this Land Cruiser was impressed with how comfy our Sport was to ride in, and it's pretty much the same as the D4. Landcruiser 200 series GX Official Offroad Review.mov (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMuBrtzaEwk#ws)
For the record, I think the Defender 110 is the sexiest 4wd ever built though :cup:
Good luck with the search ;D
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Gclan,
Thanks for your input.
I agree about all 4b's coming with electronics these days and that is something we cant change.
I know I'm probably better off buying a newer version of my old Nissan, sticking with the diesel, replacing the clutch after 160,000, and keeping a lot of money in my pocket..........
BUT :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[
I figure that if I'm going to shell out some money, I may as well move up a bit.
As previously stated the new nissan is a no go as petrol only, large V8 and a bit pricey (for a nissan!!!!)
For the same $ I get a D4 with a lot more features and comfort. Although the "altitude" cruiser does kind of fit the profile.
The D4 is just so good looking and sooooooooooo comfy.
????????????
damn damn damn.
Also, that 1st video looked a bit like a track I know in the Watagans. Is it?
Cheers
BRian
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Sure is Brian. Mt Warrawalong, though it's a lot more washed away and only single/motorbike track in from the south now, though we did scratch and scrape our way along it a couple of weeks ago(pinstripe alley ;D).
Karen
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If you are buying new and it's the 3.0l bi turbo engine (2.7 being discontinued, or so I read somewhere) just remember the wheel/tyre size is minimum 18in which limits the range of offroad tyres available, especially in remote areas. And they are dearer. Just a thought, if that does not bother you I can think of no good reason for not getting one. The only thing they really need is the bigger tank as said previously, else they are better specced than a cruiser. Yes the options are just as dear, if not dearer than Toyota, but in base form you get WAY more from what I have seen & read. I base this on my father in law having bought a brand new 200 GXL 5 months ago, around same time as I got the used Sahara, and it is SOOO budget for the money. He got a real bargain ($84k driveaway, no BS) but it is just bare bones, almost taxi like. Compared to people we know who got a SE disco for around $10k less which is near enuff the same as my Sahara in fit out and options.
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Have a look at the 200's payload (or lack thereof) & do some calcs i.e. passenger weight + fuel, loaded fridge weight etc, etc. You'll need an aftermarket ungercarriage to bring it up to scratch.
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If you are buying new and it's the 3.0l bi turbo engine (2.7 being discontinued, or so I read somewhere) just remember the wheel/tyre size is minimum 18in which limits the range of offroad tyres available, especially in remote areas. And they are dearer. Just a thought, if that does not bother you I can think of no good reason for not getting one. The only thing they really need is the bigger tank as said previously, else they are better specced than a cruiser. Yes the options are just as dear, if not dearer than Toyota, but in base form you get WAY more from what I have seen & read. I base this on my father in law having bought a brand new 200 GXL 5 months ago, around same time as I got the used Sahara, and it is SOOO budget for the money. He got a real bargain ($84k driveaway, no BS) but it is just bare bones, almost taxi like. Compared to people we know who got a SE disco for around $10k less which is near enuff the same as my Sahara in fit out and options.
Thanks for that. That's what I've neen thinking, but I still have a niggling feeling telling me I'm wrong and I'm only doing it cos I want one...............
Although that's reason in itself isn't it???? ;D
Brian
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Brian, just do it. You know you want to. Stop listening to the voices in your head.
KB
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Brian, just do it. You know you want to. Stop listening to the voices in your head.
KB
I took Steffo1's advice and looked up some stats..............
SH!TE now I'm scared............
LC has a payload of 597 Kgs. Minus the 130 odd for fuel = 467 Minus me (ahem) 75 kilo's =392. Minus the missus (browny points here we come) 40 kilos (yeah yeah, but I like living = 327
Minus fridge with some drinks leaves less than 300 kgs. Chuck in 2 kids, their crap treasures and I'm left with pretty much nothing.
Whack on a 160 kg drawbar weight and my roof racks with some firewood and hellloooooooooo officer.
This leaves no room for the chainsaw envirobags of clean burning daisy petals, tools, safety kit and recovery gear (All of which I'm sure adds up the 300kgs :'( :'( :'()
The Disco at least has a 670 kg payload which includes 74kgs of fuel and a 75 Kg driver, so a comparative payload would be 819kgs.
An extra 222kgs
The fuel usage is also lower albeit probably 3 litres per hundred, but on a 600k trip this would save about 18 litres. (stats off the internet only - probably not true, but what I have to work with)
This slightly compensates for the lower tank capacity, but really with 82 litres even at 13l / 100k I would get a range of around 600k's. More than enough for what I do.
It seems like I'm convincing myself here.
Might have to take a look in the new year........
(Now to try work out how overloaded the trol is - ....................nah, beer oclock :cheers:
Brian
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IMO they shouldn't be allowed to sell an 8 seater wagon with such a low payload.
IMO is is NOT FIT FOR PURPOSE.
Add fuel and then leave 470kg for 8 passengers. It's just not enough.
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Fit an ARB GVM upgrade suspension and away you go.
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Silly question but why are you buying new?
Its a buyers market out there and if the 'new' thing isn't an issue why not just keep an eye out for a low k's cruiser or disco with all the gear on it already?
The reality is that they are all bloody capable 4wds regardless of the badge so its really the best deal out there.
Bit left field.
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Hubby says he'd only get one with an e-diff fitted.
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I took Steffo1's advice and looked up some stats..............
SH!TE now I'm scared............
LC has a payload of 597 Kgs. Minus the 130 odd for fuel = 467 Minus me (ahem) 75 kilo's =392. Minus the missus (browny points here we come) 40 kilos (yeah yeah, but I like living = 327
Minus fridge with some drinks leaves less than 300 kgs. Chuck in 2 kids, their crap treasures and I'm left with pretty much nothing.
Whack on a 160 kg drawbar weight and my roof racks with some firewood and hellloooooooooo officer.
This leaves no room for the chainsaw envirobags of clean burning daisy petals, tools, safety kit and recovery gear (All of which I'm sure adds up the 300kgs :'( :'( :'()
The Disco at least has a 670 kg payload which includes 74kgs of fuel and a 75 Kg driver, so a comparative payload would be 819kgs.
An extra 222kgs
The fuel usage is also lower albeit probably 3 litres per hundred, but on a 600k trip this would save about 18 litres. (stats off the internet only - probably not true, but what I have to work with)
This slightly compensates for the lower tank capacity, but really with 82 litres even at 13l / 100k I would get a range of around 600k's. More than enough for what I do.
It seems like I'm convincing myself here.
Might have to take a look in the new year........
(Now to try work out how overloaded the trol is - ....................nah, beer oclock :cheers:
Brian
Remember though you can increase the GVM on a landcrusier by up to an extra 500kg and you can't on the D4.
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If you are buying new and it's the 3.0l bi turbo engine (2.7 being discontinued, or so I read somewhere) just remember the wheel/tyre size is minimum 18in which limits the range of offroad tyres available, especially in remote areas. And they are dearer. Just a thought, if that does not bother you I can think of no good reason for not getting one. The only thing they really need is the bigger tank as said previously, else they are better specced than a cruiser. Yes the options are just as dear, if not dearer than Toyota, but in base form you get WAY more from what I have seen & read. I base this on my father in law having bought a brand new 200 GXL 5 months ago, around same time as I got the used Sahara, and it is SOOO budget for the money. He got a real bargain ($84k driveaway, no BS) but it is just bare bones, almost taxi like. Compared to people we know who got a SE disco for around $10k less which is near enuff the same as my Sahara in fit out and options.
You have to option the 18's down from the 19's first and they are a bloody fortune. Better off just running the 19" Cooper Zeons at $520 a corner, not a bad looking tyre.
Also the SE was on some sort of run out promotion, on the 1st of this month the price jumped up by some insane amount. I guess that's preparing for the 8 speed model coming in MY13.
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Saw a disco 4 downtown earlier.
Good looking 4by.
Though,............. had the most hideous looking snorkel on there. Genuine landrover part it seêms.
Not saying I wouldn't have one, no reason to attempt to talk you out of it, but surely they can come up with something better looking than that.?
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I really like the D4. On two occasions looked into buy one. I live in Rockhampton and the two closest dealers are Townsville (600km) and Harvey Bay (400km). With my average of 4000km + per month I didn't want to spend another day driving just to get a service. If Rocky or Mackay had a dealer then the D4 very well could have been in my Driveway.
If your close to a dealer I would go for it.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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I really like the D4. On two occasions looked into buy one. I live in Rockhampton and the two closest dealers are Townsville (600km) and Harvey Bay (400km). With my average of 4000km + per month I didn't want to spend another day driving just to get a service. If Rocky or Mackay had a dealer then the D4 very well could have been in my Driveway.
If your close to a dealer I would go for it.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Well you are in luck as Mackay has a Land Rover dealer as of 2-3 months ago!
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/12/22/ynyne7ed.jpg)
Now that's a dirty D
Sent from Billy's iPad using Tapatalk
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Too late by 11 months...
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OOOPS............ :-[
I've been busy procrastinating about the car and tooing and froing.
I was in Passing Alto today and decided to call in at Land Rover and finally do something about it.
Well I ended up on the phone in go home mode and that was that idea out the window.
When I got home, boss lady wanted to have a look at Toyota and try a Prado. Kids in the car ready so off we went.
An hour and a half later, I own a prado............
Guess I may have to join pradopoint now???
Pick it up on Tueday, just got to have the towbar etc fitted.
Boss is happy and I just got home to my rego renewal and 200k major serive is due now, so timing was good.
So now the journey begins......
Where to start first...........???
Lots of nights in the man cave me thinks :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
Cheers
Brian
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Well done mate, what model/specs?
Swannie
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Nice to read some genuine honest opinions on this thread and especially this forum. This would have turned in to a Toyota bashing landrover thread and vice versa on another forum I am a member of. I am so glad I joined this forum.
Good luck with your Prado; did you get the diesel?
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I actually consider this forum, my religion now................ :angel: :angel: :angel:
Other than the odd leccie thread going haywire, everyone is up to help, offer insight and banter.
Believe it or not I gave in to the boss only because I see so many people on here with them and not many bad comments about them.
I ended up with a GXL turbo diesel auto in white. Got a towbar added, but stock other than that.
I picked it up for $58,700.......... not a bad deal I don't reckon. 3 year fixed price servicing and 6 year warranty ( 3 on everything then another 3 on some stuff - fine print!!!)
Brand new, 2013 manufactured and plated, not ex demo or old stock.....
I also couldn't believe they didn't try to push for extras. They asked of course, but politely accepted no.
Helpful, caring and nice. These guys are ruining a car salesman's reputation................ >:D >:D >:D
If the service department are as good, I'm hooked.
Now to start modding.
Snorkel, dual battery, cargo barrier, UHF, DVD players for kids, 12 volt sockets everywhere, fridge, brake controller, anderson power to rear, bullbar, and of course I'll be searching for one of those glass screens in the chauffeur driven cars to block out the kids!!!!!!!
Looking forward to some comfort, mod cons and good fuel economy.
It will be sad to say goodbye to the patrol. Its been 9.5 years and many miles of love. :'( :'( :'( :'(
Cheers all,
Brian
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Well done Brian, welcome to the world of Prado ownership. I'd have a sniff on Pradopoint re the towbar. I know the 120 OE bar was a POS hence I swapped to a HR. I think there is some conjecture about the OE towbar on the 150.
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Prado is a good buy.
With so many of them on (and off) the roads, we see very few of them in for any sort of major repair work.
If that size of 4x4 was what I was looking for it would be high on the list.
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Well done Brian, welcome to the world of Prado ownership. I'd have a sniff on Pradopoint re the towbar. I know the 120 OE bar was a POS hence I swapped to a HR. I think there is some conjecture about the OE towbar on the 150.
Please don't hate me...................BUT........
I'm seriously considering a smartbar. I had one on 2 of my previous 4b's and loved them. They are very forgiving and work really well. (even in an accident)
My only gripe, is they are butt ugly :-[
I think first mod will be a lift and some airbags to take the drawbar weight of the hawk (about 140 kilo's)
Brian
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A smartbar :o You can't play with the cool kids now :)
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A quick side track to this thread.....is the turbo diesel engine in the prado the same as the turbo diesel engine in the current model hilux????
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Congratulations brian on the new toy! Let the mods begin!
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A quick side track to this thread.....is the turbo diesel engine in the prado the same as the turbo diesel engine in the current model hilux????
I believe so but IIRC the lux is detuned.
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Congratulations Brian - I hope you have many, many trouble free miles in your new vehicle ... I look forward to reading your trip reports. I'm glad this topic didn't sink to the landy vs toyota/nissan
insults that occur on other forums, we all drive what we like and enjoy our time out in the bush.
cheers
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Please don't hate me...................BUT........
I'm seriously considering a smartbar. I had one on 2 of my previous 4b's and loved them. They are very forgiving and work really well. (even in an accident)
My only gripe, is they are butt ugly :-[
I think first mod will be a lift and some airbags to take the drawbar weight of the hawk (about 140 kilo's)
Brian
Good on you.
My question is always do you REALLY need one at all? Can the coin be better spent?
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Yes I really do need one.
I tow through a lot of scrub and bush and I don't mind scratching a bar, but scratching duco isn't on.......
I also need to mount a winch, antenna and possibly some lights. I would assume new standard lights are pretty good though.
I have also had a few meetings with skippy that I wouldn't want to have without a bar.
This is my primary reason for going the smartbar. They do tend to "absorb" the energy of a roo hit. Where a steel or allot bar doesn't.
I have had a couple before so I know they work.
Its just getting past the "ugly" factor
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Congrats Brian
The Prado is a good thing, and it's great to see Toyota doing decent pricing on them now (thanks to Mitsibishi & Jeep pricing more than Toyota being generous!)
Look forward to your mods.
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Well done Brian. Hope you enjoy your new toy as much as I enjoyed getting my gxl 150 last year.
Std headlights are pretty good. A big improvement over the 120 std lights. The fact you can tweak the alignment whilst driving means you can always get the best from them regardless of load.
Have fun with the mods and yeah, check PP if you want lots of ideas
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The 5 Day Sale has some good deals. I saw that great price for Prados and wished I was in a position to do something this weekend myself.
Well done Brian.
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Yes I really do need one.
I tow through a lot of scrub and bush and I don't mind scratching a bar, but scratching duco isn't on.......
I also need to mount a winch, antenna and possibly some lights. I would assume new standard lights are pretty good though.
I have also had a few meetings with skippy that I wouldn't want to have without a bar.
This is my primary reason for going the smartbar. They do tend to "absorb" the energy of a roo hit. Where a steel or allot bar doesn't.
I have had a couple before so I know they work.
Its just getting past the "ugly" factor
All makes sense. Pity they cant do them in a colour to match the paint!
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If had just bought a 150 I'd be making an offer on the deluxe ARB bar in the for sale section.
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A smartbar :o You can't play with the cool kids now :)
What he ^ said.......
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If had just bought a 150 I'd be making an offer on the deluxe ARB bar in the for sale section.
....and him ^ too...... ;D
(might be gone, though......unless you've already got it)
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Oh Brian, was loving this thread as I am planning an buying a Disco. All the fruit and way better value than a cruiser. I have had a Pajero and a Prado, now a Hilux SR5 but when I sat in the LR I thought this is it. When you were talking about spending enough to buy a Disco I was disappointed to hear you settled for a Prado.
Are you concerned about the lack of clearance inside the rear wheels where the suspension hangs?
Stu.
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Stu, I have no concerns over the playdos ( or prada for the ladies) ability.
I've been in a 4b club for so long I have forgotten life without it. I have learnt to drive properly through or around things that are going to break my car.
Also these days I', a lot tamer with my kids in the car.
We really only use the 4wd to get to the places we need to go, not to tackle mountains or bogholes.
I too would have loved the disco and intended to buy one.
The boss lady preferred the prada and it is actually her daily driver.
I also wasn't opposed to the $25k saving by buying the playdo ;D ;D ;D
That buys me a hell of a lot of fuel. It also gives me toyotas relatively good resale value.
All in all I think I'm happy with it. Time will tell.
:-[ [Still would love a disco 4 ...............) :-[
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If had just bought a 150 I'd be making an offer on the deluxe ARB bar in the for sale section.
Looks like someone else had the same idea..............
Its gone pending payment. :'(
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Well done Brian. You will love it. They are great vehicles. We love our 120 and it was the best investment we made. :cheers:
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Well done, we went through the same thing 12 months ago. D4 or 150? Unfortunately for us Land Rover did not take us seriously so we walked away. Was not overly fussed on the 150 and made the "mistake" of test driving a 200, the rest is history.
On the smart bar, can you now get one and use the winch you were talking about. I didn't think you could get them winch compatable?
Cheers, Craig
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We picked it up last night......................
Boss is VERY happy.
Me - happy wife, happy life.
Now to get onto prado point and learn about all the good bad and indifferent mods............. Maybe see some swaggers there???
As far as I've been told the smartbar does come in a winch compatible as did my patrol. Hope I'm not wrong.....
I was going to ring and let a few mates know, but with everyone's wives on spaceoutbook - everybody already knows!!!
I'll get some pics up as soon as it doesn't look like a soccer mum car.........
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Welcome to the club :cheers:
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As far as I've been told the smartbar does come in a winch compatible as did my patrol. Hope I'm not wrong.....
Ask Jasen on PP, you'll find the thread :):):)
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Spoke to smartbar today.
It can take a winch.
Size is rated for the standard warn 9000 winch, but assures me it will take most brands of that size.
I had a warn on my patrol and changed it to a generic brand one and it was exactly the same size.
He emailed me a photo of a tigerz winch on one of their bars on a pajero.
First and foremost job is to get the brake controller in so I can tow the hawk.
Then I'll worry about the rest, but getting mobile again is a priority.
Best time for camping coming up as the weather cools off...... :D :D :D
I think I could get to like this car. VERY comfortable.
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OK - the boss loves the car, but so far I'm banging my head against a wall with mods.
Can't find a spot to mount the P3 brake controller due to the plethora of airbags (not the missus this time, actual inflating ones)
Can't fit the GPS I want cos of the dash size etc.
Cant integrate the camera cos the OEM is 6 volts
Can't do the dual battery system I want due to the ECU controlling the alternator.
Can't fit the battery I want due to the air con pipes in the way ( What a stupid spot for them)
Cant have the UHF radio I want due to airbags again and nowhere to mount it. (dash has buttons everywhere)
Diff, box etc breathers are all about half way up the engine bay (seriously, how much coin did you save??? spend a dollar and run them up another 500mm )
Drain for water trap is in the most akward spot to get to. ( A bit more thought and you could have put it in the guard to make it that little bit harder to get to >:( )
Now I know it sounds like I'm whinging, but I'm really not :-[ :-[ :-[
Its a great car with heaps of potential, I just have to rethink my normal mod practices and work in with them.
Looking forward to getting stuck into it and doing some stuff...............
BUT
I rolled my ankle yesterday and tore a heap of ligament and can't walk on it for 2 - 3 weeks...............
BUGGER BUGGER BUGGER :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
Ah well, I'll just self medicate and get on with it.
report back soon
Brian
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Sounds like you need to put a few ads on the Trader section and get down to the show before the deals finish.
Redarc brake controller
GME or ICOM UHF with mic controls and speaker
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OK - the boss loves the car, but so far I'm banging my head against a wall with mods.
Can't find a spot to mount the P3 brake controller due to the plethora of airbags (not the missus this time, actual inflating ones)
Can't fit the GPS I want cos of the dash size etc.
Cant integrate the camera cos the OEM is 6 volts
Can't do the dual battery system I want due to the ECU controlling the alternator.
Can't fit the battery I want due to the air con pipes in the way ( What a stupid spot for them)
Cant have the UHF radio I want due to airbags again and nowhere to mount it. (dash has buttons everywhere)
Diff, box etc breathers are all about half way up the engine bay (seriously, how much coin did you save??? spend a dollar and run them up another 500mm )
Drain for water trap is in the most akward spot to get to. ( A bit more thought and you could have put it in the guard to make it that little bit harder to get to >:( )
Now I know it sounds like I'm whinging, but I'm really not :-[ :-[ :-[
Its a great car with heaps of potential, I just have to rethink my normal mod practices and work in with them.
Looking forward to getting stuck into it and doing some stuff...............
BUT
I rolled my ankle yesterday and tore a heap of ligament and can't walk on it for 2 - 3 weeks...............
BUGGER BUGGER BUGGER :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
Ah well, I'll just self medicate and get on with it.
report back soon
Brian
New vehicles are getting just to damn difficult to modify...
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Its Karma,...
Shoulda gone with the disco? >:D
;D ;D ;D
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Its Karma,...
Shoulda gone with the disco? >:D
;D ;D ;D
They aren't a lot better. For example, can't fit snow chains IIRC.
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Brian,
Hope I can help with a couple of bits, mine is a 200 but they are similar in a lot of bits.
Dual Batteries and voltages can be fixed with a diode fuse in the ALT-S position. Adds about 0.6V to alternator output
(http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k80/cam_champion/Image00006-2.jpg)
(http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k80/cam_champion/Image00007-1.jpg)
(http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k80/cam_champion/Image00005-2.jpg)
(http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k80/cam_champion/Image00008-1.jpg)
Remote mic UHFs make installations a breeze
(http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k80/cam_champion/DSC_0070.jpg)
Primus IQ brake controller is a proportional controller that should do most of the P3 stuff (except maultiple trailer settings) you just do not get all the pretty displays, and it is the right size to take the place of your ash tray and much cheaper than the P3
Does not help with all your issues, but hopefully will help you get started :)
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Thanks for all the tips guys.
I'm pretty sure I'll get it al sorted, but it just wont be as simple as I thought.
I just need to rethink my way of doing things.
Mods started already. Just picked up my new springs with 50 mm lift.
King springs and Bilstein shocks.
I went for the heavy duty to take the extra weight of the bar, battery and winch in the front and gear and camper in the rear.
I reckon I'm not going to airbag it till I see whether it needs it or not.
The patrol never needed it, but it did have a 5" lift in the rear and sat higher than the front.
I also really like the idea of the UHF with the head being the speaker, buttons and all. I can then remove the mic and keep it in the glove box when not in use.
(My OCD hates clutter in the cabin when driving.)
I realise this should probably go in the leccie section, but I'm not in the mood for an argument so I'll ask here....... :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[
The voltage boosting diodes???
I have read mixed opinions of them. Having a leccie background I know what they do and how they work, but I am keen to try a more primitive method?
I was planning on just using a VSR that has a 13.2V cut in and a 12.7V cut out. I have tested the playdo and it seems to maintain at least 13.5 while running. This was even after an hour of driving so perhaps my system is as bad as claimed.
What are your thoughts, and does anyone know better / differently???
MODS PLEASE DONT SHOOT ME__________________BUT
I also was reading this morning in the general section some threads that kind of gave the impression we're all a bit bored or grumpy with each other.
I have found this forum to be extremely helpful. Some good, some bad and some indifferent, but always helpful and most people happy to help and give advice.
Lots of tongue in cheek banter and humour, but always friendly and helpful.
Top bunch of people who are happy to help.
Insert love emoticon here.........
:-* :-* :-*
Insert "lighten up everyone"emoticon here.
Cheers and MANY thanks
Brian
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I also really like the idea of the UHF with the head being the speaker, buttons and all. I can then remove the mic and keep it in the glove box when not in use.
(My OCD hates clutter in the cabin when driving.)
I was planning on just using a VSR that has a 13.2V cut in and a 12.7V cut out. I have tested the playdo and it seems to maintain at least 13.5 while running. This was even after an hour of driving so perhaps my system is as bad as claimed.
Hey Brian, that's why I fitted the Icom IC440, all in one handset and you can hide the main unit behind/in the glove box. Although I have fitted a GME with the speaker in the main unit in a mate's 120 in the glovebox and you can still hear it ok.
The diode will give you around 0.5V increase which will get you to 14V so just enough to kick in your VSR and charge the batts. Keep in mind once you turn on some lights etc you'll drop the V more.
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Hey Brian, that's why I fitted the Icom IC440, all in one handset and you can hide the main unit behind/in the glove box. Although I have fitted a GME with the speaker in the main unit in a mate's 120 in the glovebox and you can still hear it ok.
The diode will give you around 0.5V increase which will get you to 14V so just enough to kick in your VSR and charge the batts. Keep in mind once you turn on some lights etc you'll drop the V more.
Thanks - good advice.
My only problem now, is as I do it I get so involved I forget to take pics.
Must remember....
Cheers
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Hey Brian, now that you have not bought a Discovery how about renaming the thread? Fair enough to keep the discussion going but it has moved on from the OP. No criticism intended, just a thought. Makes interesting and informative reading.
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I know I'm a bit late to the party. But lets just say I know a Land Rover mechanic. There is a reason why he drives a Lexus. Thats all I have got to say. >:D
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Hey Brian, now that you have not bought a Discovery how about renaming the thread? Fair enough to keep the discussion going but it has moved on from the OP. No criticism intended, just a thought. Makes interesting and informative reading.
Good point - thanks
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I saw a Smart Bar on a new Prado the other day.........looked terrible........IMO
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I saw a Smart Bar on a new Prado the other day.........looked terrible........IMO
the prado or the bar Geoff ;D
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the prado or the bar Geoff ;D
......was talking about the bar, but the Prado's no GU, that's for sure :P........(waiting for the obvious response.....)..... ;D ;D ;D ;D
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My inlaws have a 150 Prado. They love it, and so do I. Comfy, powerful, cheap to run, and very capable.
they have a Bar, rack, 2" lift, airbags. They have done the Simpson, Cape, Fraser and off to the Canning this year and fully confident with their truck.
I have an 80, and love it to bits. But if I had the coin, my Mrs car would be a 150.
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My inlaws have a 150 Prado. They love it, and so do I. Comfy, powerful, cheap to run, and very capable.
they have a Bar, rack, 2" lift, airbags. They have done the Simpson, Cape, Fraser and off to the Canning this year and fully confident with their truck.
........
They're very nice, and very capable, but they're not a truck.........
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Yeah, sadly my patrol is gone.
But it was bought by a young bloke who lives nearby so I'm sure I'll see it around. Its hard to miss............
The prado is the boss's daily driver most of the time.
When it does get me behind the wheel its only going down the odd track to go camping and usually its a couple of hours on blacktop to get there then a short stint off road.
Once a year it goes on a real trip where dirt is predominant.
This usage suits the playdo perfectly.
I'm also loving the 10 litres per 100 and less...... ;D ;D ;D ;D
Auto is a big bonus in the city now and the comfort level is miles apart.
While I reckon the big patrol wagon is a great tourer and she'll be sadly missed, the playdo suits our current soccermum needs.
Horses for courses as they say.
Oh and just to add - YES the smartbars are as ugly as Julia, but they are practical and from my personal experience (had 2 before) a lot better for me.
Again horses for courses.
I'm not bulldozing blackberries or pushing trees out the way, just want something that can cop a hiding from the bugs and odd rock or three and provide a bit of safety when communicating with a roo. Also gives me somewhere to mount the antenna and winch of course.
Some would say that its also a guideline for parking - stop when you hit something, but some of my "friends"on here know my wife, so I would never say that. >:D >:D >:D
Just started buying stuff for it like radios, brake controller etc, and I jotted down some expenses..................
When I'm done I reckon it will be around $8,000............
Heart attack material, but I LOVE it.
Can't wait to see how it tows the Hawk.
Planning the maiden voyage now.
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Going to move this thread to MY 4WD as it seems appropriate now.............
Cheers
Brian
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I'm a bit disappointed you didn't go with the disco :'(, but the Prado is a very nice truck and probably what most of the cruiser drivers should be driving - it does everything the cruiser can at a fraction of the price.
As far as the smart bar goes, yes they are not very nice looking, but I had one of my work patrol a few years back and absolutely loved it. Took uncounted too strikes with no dents and no damage to the truck, they just don't do one for the Disco.
Have fun and just get out there and use it!
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Ithink you have made a great decision, the Prado is a great 4WD, comfy, great fuel economy, good off road and a great tourer.
Have fun mate, maybe we'll see you out and about and have a beer around a campfire, because that's what it's all about after all, getting out there and enjoying the bush.
Baz.
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Hope to do that bl00dy soon.
Lift kit went in today, ordered radios, brake controls etc etc....
I'll post it all up in "my4wd"section.
Cheers
Brian
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They're very nice, and very capable, but they're not a truck.........
Well its not a train, and its not a boat, Truck is just easier to say than 4WD Offroad Recreational Vehicle.
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Well its not a train, and its not a boat, Truck is just easier to say than 4WD Offroad Recreational Vehicle.
How about "car".....??
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Well its not a train, and its not a boat, Truck is just easier to say than 4WD Offroad Recreational Vehicle.
god, at least we are not calling them SUV's on here. That is all that matters ;D
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How about "car".....??
taking the car for a drive on the beach just doesn't sound rite stick with truck or you could call it " the god of 4wd's" as other prado owners would surely agree
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but the Prado is a very nice truck and probably what most of the cruiser drivers should be driving - it does everything the cruiser can at a fraction of the price.
Why should Cruiser driver's have Prados? I test drove Pajero & Prado too but settled on the Cruiser as far superior to the other two.
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I love me prado but it ain't no cruiser. The effortless nature of the LC needs to be experienced towing. Then it's in it's own league and prado/Pajero are way behind.
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My dad had a WW2 mate on a rural property who used to talk about his 'bus'... was a late 1930's straight 8 Chevy! 8)
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Pretty fair call about the landcruisers in a league of their own, but it of course comes at a price.
Unfortunately I don't work for the Gillard government so I can't get copious amounts of cash rorted into my account. I have to go to work to get it.............
Seriously though..............
The price for a cruiser with similar specs was nearly $30K more. That buys me a lot of fuel. and helps keep the mortgage down.
The reality is that the playdo will do everything we want to with ease and comfort.
Yes a LC would have been nice, but its too big for the boss and too pricey for us.
All I do is tow a Jayco camper into the bush and home again.
Suits me perfectly.
Now if anyone does have a new LC they think is too big and wants to do a straight swap, Just PM me and I'll think about it........... ;D
Brian
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Why should Cruiser driver's have Prados? I test drove Pajero & Prado too but settled on the Cruiser as far superior to the other two.
My comment would probably be more directed at the 90% of buyers in the general public who use them as shopping trolleys and on the school run. Most of them don't know how to drive or park them and must think they are about a meter bigger than they are as they need two spaces to park and two lanes to drive.
If you are towing a horse float or caravan it's a fair call to buy one even though I would never get rid of my D4!
We have a LC200 in our group and a few places we have driven and I know how capable they are, just not as good as a landie!