Mikell replied:

Been looking for a newer patrol for a while myself.

The 2.8 lt is a good motor but a bit underpowered for the size vehicle. Economy is reasonable from what i can find out. I ruled out getting one of these as i tow a van and a horsefloat a fair bit and the lack of power put me off.

The 3.0lt sounds good but all the problems they have been having and the cost of spares frightened me off.

the 4.2lt is ideal for my purposes but i just have to find one at the right price. Everyone seems to want one and second hand still fetch good prices. Economy is good, power is excellent and reliability is proven.

Both petrol motors have plenty of power but are too thirsty to be used off road on extended trips or for towing (compared to the diesels)

Hope this helps some

Truckster (Vic) replied:

What do you want it for?? Towing? Treking, or just a daily car??

They are a bit underpowered... good for doing engine swaps with as they are cheap as chips!

Brian replied:

I would consider the 4.2 diesel. I believe the post 1999 models are factory turbo'ed?? (I may, and no doubt will, stand corrected on that).
I have a 4.2 naturally aspirated diesel and off road the low down torque is superb, whereas in a 2.8TD you're using a 2.8 L engine to push around a 2.5 tonne truck until your revs build up for the turbo to come on. (I may, and no doubt will, stand corrected on that as well).
As far as economy, most large fourbys are thirsty, they're big heavy vehicles that require a squirt of fuel to get 'em going.... and accessories cost heaps too!!!!
BUT.....
It's a great form of entertainment/travelling/sport/relaxation!!!!!!!!!!
Just my opinion
Cheers
Brian

Nav 80 replied:

Gday Dave,,,I have just traded my 1999 2.8 turbo diesel owned since new and heres my opinion it was the second 2.8 i owned as I had the GQ befor that.
I towed a 17 foot van over thousands of Ks and found it no problem for power except it was sluggish at low revs but on the road not a problem.
Off road it was not the best for sand driving again very sluggish at low revs,other conditions it was fine. I got an average of 15L/100Km pulling the van if you dont push it. I have just bought a new 3Ltr ST-R Navara and have done a 2000K trip with the van, it tows much better than the 2.8 with plenty of low down torque and in sand driveing is streets ahead of the 2.8. I got an average of 13.5/100k pulling the van. I had no problems with the 2.8 at all but so far am more than happy with the Navara I also think the problems with the 3Ltr have now been sorted but only time will tell.