I know I’ll hit the Toyota v’s Nissan nerve here, however please respond based on my particular requirements and comment objectively.
I currently run around in a LC80 4.5L and have been keeping a close eye on newer models. I am interested to hear peoples
views between the LC100 4.2TD and Patrol 3.0TD.
The vehicle will be required for medium to hard off road work with long range, remote touring capabilities. I will always travel with at least one other vehicle when travelling remote or pushing into the hard terrain.
Based on my particular circumstances this is what I see are the big differences between the Tojo and Nissan.
Price – Nissan 10-15K cheaper, although resale value isn’t nearly as good as the LC.
Motor is claimed to be better quality, refined and reliable in the LC, with fuel consumption being comparable between the two (at least compared to the 4.5L I currently fill).
Under carriage – Comments appreciated here. IFS in the LC, better on road and dirt tracks. I need to face it, this is a big country and as much as I’d prefer to always be knee deep in mud, sand or
water there will be a lot of black top and dirt roads that’ll need covering. V’s the solid bars front and rear in the Patrol as a trade off for on road comfort. How much more comfortable is the LC100 over the solid axel Nissan and how much worse is the IFS when the going gets tough? The under carriage of the Patrol has always been
well respected, practically the rear LSD. If I were to go with a single lokka, contrary to the norm, would you keep the good LSD in the rear of the Patrol and put the lokka in the front, or not? I hear the front diff in the IFS LC isn’t as strong as it once was or should – fact/fiction? How would a lokka go here? With that in mind and knowing the LSD in the LC isn’t as effective as the Patrol I would opt for rear lokka. In serious off road there wouldn’t be much of a contest, rear lokka and IFS v’s front lokka and good rear LSD with solids bars.
Tailgate – In my opinion the horizontal split in the LC is much more practical then the
barn doors of the patrol as far as shelter, sitting and loading goes. Haven’t decided yet about relocating the spare, not too exp though with Kaymar system.
Interior – I’ve heard the build quality here is better in the LC and is more comfortable for long drives. Opinions?
All comments and opinions are much appreciated.
Alex