Patrol or Cruiser cab chassis???

i would look at the weight capacity on each, i think from memory the patrol has less capacity and with 500 - 700kg as the "normal" load you dont had "light" loads .......
Other than that it is really down to personall choice but dont make the mistake of getting one with lots of "accessorys" as a selling point as you can always add it later and those sort of things wont stop you if way out bush, good condition basic vehicle and start adding your own personal touches..
Cheers ...
Joe
((( must add, if you plan on coming along the Savannah Way past us then it is closed to Patrols, Toyotas only, sorry bout that ..... hahahaha)))

Just buy a Cruiser!!

Landcruiser for mine to Dave, all those mines and govt depts use them for years so I think that says something about them.

Cheers

Dave I am possibly makeing the same decision soon for a second 4wd.

My short list would be a factory turbo cruiser which I think is 2002 on, or an intercooled GU. In round terms the GU seems to be 10K less expensive than a 70 series for like to like.

The main adivce I can give at this stage is that if you decide on a GU get the chassis around the rear axle insepcted by someone who knows what to look for. Apparently chassis cracks are very common and many owners get the chassis reinforced, especially with loads like you intend to have. I think it is not a matter of when, not if if you regularly have loads on it.

Google 'GU chassis crack' for more info or take a look at patrol4x4.com for feedback from people with real experience. If it was me from what I read, I would get the chassis reinforced and allow $1800 on top of the price if you decide on a Patrol. Given that I would probably go for a Patrol for my needs, and I am a Toyota owner.

Good luck, it will be interesting to see what feedback you get.

I think you have just answered your own question. Take the passion out of the argument and both vehicles are as good as each other so it comes down to the points you mentioned:
1. The Toyota is worth more (is it worth it.... No there is nothing wrong with Patrols). Toyota charge more for their badge and their spare parts are more expensive.
2. The Patrol has lower mileage and is cheaper but just as capable.

Seems like a no brainer for me.

Cheers,

Hi

What about a GU leaf sprung trayback. Easily carry the loads your talking about.
No need to worry about air bags. Just use good quality rear leaf springs.

If you wish to go further you can use the same suspension used in a GVM upgrade. Plus you can get passenger and drivers airbags and a larger cabin than toyota. The Nissan also lets you use all the fuel in the second tank as its pumped to the main tank. Fuel ecomony is on a par but the Nissan would have slightly higher servicing costs.

Cheers Teza

G'day,
I did this myself a couple of years back. Have always had cruisers, but when it came time to change over there was $12,500 between the price tag in favour of Patrol Cab Chassis (leaf rear). It was too much to ignore. I've had the Patrol for 120,000km now as a farm ute (often overloaded, often pulling trailers inexcess of 6tonne!) and have been very happy. Happy enough that when it came time to change the car we bought a Patrol Wagon!
Both are good vehicles, which is obvious as if one of them really was rubbish they wouldn't sell very many!
One thing that may change your mind if you do alot of driving, the Cruiser is a more upright driving position whereas the Patrol you have your legs more out in front (like a car). That is a personal preference for you to sort out.
In my case money talked, and I can't fault the Nissan.
Happy decision making!
Corrugate

Thanks everyone for the awesome replys! i cant beleive how good this forum is and the people on it and who genuinely want to help.

I knew this would start a Nissan vs Toyota battle, but the no bulls... approach is very much apprieciated.

I am also a Toyota owner and so is the old man and bro.. so itll be interesting to see a Nissan in the driveway.

Theres the homework done.. now the search is on, scales tipped in favor of the Nissan. Sorry to all the cruiser owners out there!