Purchase 4x4 to tow off road camper trailer

Hi Glen,

If you go for a Landcruiser or a Patrol they will last you for years and years. They are the toughest out there.

However there are many makes and models which will do the job you require.

My personal opinion is look at the latest model Cruiser or Patrol with the lowest kilometres you can find in your budget specs.

Test drive every thing to see if you like the feel of each brand and you will quickly find the one you like. Then it is a matter of finding the right one for you.

I bought a very nice 2003 Cruiser V8 petrol for $22.5K. There are more out there.
Don’t be phased by the petrol versus diesel debate. I have had both and either are good and all fuels out in the backblocks are dear.

The economy is slowing and it is a buyers market so do not be in a rush to part with your cash.

For the money you mention I would think you could expect to be looking at something around the year 2000 or a year or two each way for the right one.

Accessories???. A good steel winch compatible bull bar is a must if you get out in the country as a kangaroo can do some horrendous damage if you hit one at speed. A UHF is a pretty handy piece of kit as well especially if in a group.

That's my advice, see how you go.

Cheers, Bruce.

hi glen
there are lots of very good s/hand pajero's out there for that money and just as good very reliable and great on fuel consumption as compared to L cruisers and will go and tow 8oo kg trailers anywhere doesn't have to be a l/c to get you there some blokes are so set in there ideas when it comes to choice and some of them have never owned any other brands
cheers

Glenn, what awesome timing! I have just yesterday finished my search for exactly what you are looking for. We just picked up a 2001 100 Series Landcruiser. Petrol/LPG, ARB bar, winch and sidesteps. $17000, and ready to go. By far the toughest and best value for money vehicle you could get. There are plenty around,so look hard and long. Don't rush into it and do plenty of research. The only other advice I can give you is do not compromise on quality. In my opinion, you only have two choices, patrol or Landcruiser! I've seen all the others, and the truth is that they don't cut the mustard mate. Best of luck, Chris.

G'day Glen, This is a very biased opinion..but how does a 2003 V6 Auto Jackaroo with
only 125k, good tyres, reg & 2 year warranty, cruise control, 7 seats,full log book
service history, tow & nudge bar......all for $10k sound??.
You wont buy a better proper 4wd wagon for the money..& have $10k left for toys &
fuel. It's on Ebay,at a Sydney dealer. No association, just a satisfied Jack owner.
cheers......oldbaz.

Thanks for all of your input and advice. I have a friend who just bought a patrol and are very happy with it. I have always owned a Toyota so more inclined to go with them. What about Hilux dual cab, or is a cruiser the better option?

The landcruisers and patrols will both be great tow vehicles but would your wife be happy driving one or would she rather something smaller prado,pajero or a twin cab will it be an around the town car I know my wife wouldn't take my patrol into shopping centres .most of the 4x4 are quite capable of towing 800kg easy. I think any turbo diesel 4 or 6 cylinder would be good option for fuel economy and power and range. A petrol will be quite thirsty especially towing and in the high country. eg I had a 2.5ltr turbo diesel towing 1.4t at 100kph 16lph but my 4.2ltr 6cylinder petrol towing the same thing same speed got 26lph. You will need a trailer brake installed I would add some polyair bags or air bellows to the rear to support the load because of all the extra gear you will be carrying in the rear of the car when towing.