Anyone driven base model man diesel prado?

Submitted: Sunday, Apr 18, 2004 at 22:19

ThreadID: 12169 Views:2262 Replies:3 FollowUps:5

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Keith Scott

Looks like a half decent vehicle and so much cheaper for lack of gizmos and flares, and was just wondering if anyone has one or has experience of one in the current model. Does the lack of wheel arch flares mean limited wheel/tyre choices? How long is the rear cargo with seats removed and front seats forward(sleeping)?? It seems to have more than enough toys as standard. Are ABS really necessary in a car like this (troopy and most gq owners don't seem to worry). I'm not after an overly stressed motor. Was also checking out late model gq patrols (there's something I truly love about these honest trucks) and early gu in diesel manual (i enjoy driving). In no hurry but want to make the right decision so i can keep the vehicle a long time. Most of my driving will be in East coast NSW forestry trails and fire trails - especially New England area (mostly over 1000m alt and nice and cold and often wet).

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Reply By: The Publican - Sunday, Apr 18, 2004 at 23:18

Sunday, Apr 18, 2004 at 23:18

Have you looked at the Pajero. The 3.2l diesel engine is without a doubt the best available on the market. Overall seat comfort etc the Pajero is a far better buy all round.

AnswerID: 54903

Follow Up By: Keith Scott - Sunday, Apr 18, 2004 at 23:46

Sunday, Apr 18, 2004 at 23:46

Thanks Publican. What is the base model paj costing anyway. The prado is about 45k but essentially the same vehicle guts as the more exy ones. is this the same with the paj. I will check it out . Thanks.

FollowupID: 316586

Follow Up By: srowlandson - Monday, Apr 19, 2004 at 08:31

Monday, Apr 19, 2004 at 08:31

After searching the prado range, i opted for the Diesel GX... it was by far the most economical and best value in the range..

only missing out on a few features which i classed as not important.

With the use of $130 Flexi Flare i now have 285 tyres on my prado. The factory plastic flares scratch easily and are subject to damaging easily. I prefer the black grill and mirrors, and was not a fan of ABS.

For $5000 cheaper, its the perfect car... although now the VX has been released, that would also get a look in if you could afford the extra $12,000 or so..

Steve
03 Prado GX

FollowupID: 316597

Follow Up By: GO_OFFROAD - Monday, Apr 19, 2004 at 10:16

Monday, Apr 19, 2004 at 10:16

The paj would be fine, if the non chassis pressed metal floor pan didnt transmit so much drumming and road noise into the cab, let alone all those dangly plastic expensive bits which hang even lower than the 120.....

Also, the GX prado gets the smaller stereo, and lack of rear speakers etc, but like most toyotas Im sure you will find the wiring loom to be GXL+ spec, and alot of extra stuff can be just a install and plug into factory loom.

And having driven a 3.0 prado with dtronic recently, I can say it would be the best $ you could spend on the vehicle, because you get good use from it every time you drive the car.

FollowupID: 316610