Tuesday, May 22, 2007 at 21:20
" it is not likely that I will be taking my
young family (we're talking ages of 1,3 & 9 through dense scrub and heavy 4wd tracks."
Why not? They'd probably love it. My kids are 1, 7 and 11 and love going bush, the rougher the better. SWMBO is not so keen, but that's OK - we leave her chained to the sink (OUCH - only joking dear!!).
I'd say get rid of the Hyundai, even if you have to set a match to it, before it costs you any more. Then get a reliable and
well-looked after (mechanically) 4WD for your rough trips. I would NOT buy a cheap 4WD - not that there is such a thing anyway. The last thing you want on a rough track is a 4WD that will break down and leave you stranded.
Have you thought about ditching both cars, and getting a Patrol or Landcruiser? Then you can have the best of both worlds without having to compromise on comfort or safety. Scratches and dents are not the end of the world, in fact not even a real problem. IMHO when the vehicle is 10 years old, it won't make enough difference in the resale value to justify running a second 4WD, if that's the only reason. Vehicles are liabilities, not assets, and worrying about maximising future resale value only lessens enjoyment of the vehicle in the present.
Cheers
John
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