99 prado

hatto
great truck, but the rattle in the dash will send you bonkers!!!

tesa

The 3.4lt V6 is a reliable motor but lacks power and is very thirsty.

Apart from that very good.

Heaps of aftermarket parts available.

Extremely capable off road in standard trim.

Typical Toyota build quality.

Check these reviews by owners.

http://www.carsurvey.org/review_96300.html

http://www.carsurvey.org/review_104796.html

Have a look at "Pradopoint"

http://www.pradopoint.com/index.php?c=3&sid=8a93457db8bfd573f44550f1b8fe2486

I have a bit of info Here at my site

Very thirsty vehicle, is it auto or manual ? Log books ? How much? What are you going to use it for ?

Compared to equivalent petrol wagons they aren't that thirsty. Running BFG A/T tyres and a 2 inch lift I manage 12.5 to 13L/100kms on the highway doing 100km/hr. Last year towing a wind-up camper to the Centre and averaging 110km/hr (often more in the NT) I managed 16 to 17L/100km, which I thought was excellent. Recently travelled 25,000kms in 6 months towing a Trak Shak camper, Rhino roof bars and basket/bag on top. Had it converted to LPG for the trip and averaged around 22L/100km on LPG. I was initially hoping for better but considering the weight (me, missus and 2 kids) and roof basket, I think that's good for a medium petrol wagon.

Most will have a 'hum' around 2800rpm, that's normal. Recalling a write up in 4wd Action some years back they supposedly get noisy water pumps and one head is prone to leaking more than the other. Mines done 207ks and no problems with anything.

Great turning circle, comfy, great air con/heating/stereo/brakes. The front seats need more thigh support and they could do with a wider track like the 120 series. Shocking handbrake, useless. Even when 'fixed' they quickly revert back to useless! Very good offroad, although low low in the petrol auto is nothing flash.

Overall a great vehicle.

Cheers,

Mark.

Thanks everybody for your answers, I am just doing a little research for my sister, she's not really going to use it for serious 4wd, just to take kids moto riding and camping etc

cheers Hatto

With the price if fuel I would go a manual if possible. Not sure about Prados but with Jacks the manual will do and extra 50 to 100ks per tank. The newer 5 speed autos are much better.
I have a old comparo between Jacks, Pajs and prados all auto and the Prado was the most economical by 1.5l/100.
Condition of the vehicle is most importent, should be able to pick up a 98/99 model with 200ks for arround $12000.00. As they are selling at auction for a lot less then that.
Cheers Pete