2000 Land Cruiser as '07 4runner replacement ?

[Thai]

Well I haven't gone for a test drive of the 2000 LC yet.

Keep in mind, this is going to be a "financial" decision.... used car loan involved etc.

I have to make the numbers work for my "current" income (or lack there of).

So we'll see.

Well, if that's the case, then it is probably better to keep what you have. A 2007 4runner will be more reliable/durable than a high mileage 2000 LC IMO.

 

[fxoffroad]

Does the 2000s have stability control? That would be a big negative for me if it did not have it, esp. as a daily driver.

ditto that.

Well I haven't gone for a test drive of the 2000 LC yet. Keep in mind, this is going to be a "financial" decision.... used car loan involved etc.

Ah... you haven't driven an LC yet. Your story sounds a bit like my own.

And absolutely no offense, but if its partially a financial decision and its your daily driver - aren't you concerned about gas and repair costs?

Also... if you decide to turn in your 2007 - you might want to consider trying to sell it, rather than turning it in. (Ebay shows '07s ranging from 23-29K) I had a leased vehicle and instead of turning it in, I sold it and put some cash in my pocket. So call your lease company and find out what your payoff is, cuz you could make some $$$.

Before I purchased my 5th Gen 4R, I was pretty much sold on finding a 2006 LC. Then, I test drove a 2006 Land Cruiser and was surprised and disappointed. You actually do feel cramped (legroom) inside. I work @ home, so I didn't care (too much) about MPG.

Then last fall, I test drove a 2009 LC and was surprised that it felt more cramped (front legroom) than a 09 Highlander? WTF… I was extremely disappointed - though honestly it was good to finally put to bed my wonder if I'd be happier in a 09 Land Cruiser -- I wouldn't have and I just saved a bunch of cash. And when I'm at a stop light next to those 100 series, I'm reminded how much I love my 5th Gen.

In 2000, I think you'll get 200HP, that hurts unless you're all about torque - if you get a 2006, you'll get a 275HP.

Like you, I was seriously considering a used LC… when I finally drove a new 5th Gen, I was immediately sold. It's like getting a mini-me version of the Land Cruiser - but with more legroom, better gas mileage and a more modern wrapper (body) - though I'm still not completely sold on the exterior.

You don't know me from Adam, but my suggestions:

1. Go test drive a few Land Cruisers.
2. Test drive the 5th Gen - and if you like it, start looking for a used one.
3. See if there's anyway you can stay in your 07 4Runner.

Good luck!

 

[BassMiesterNJ]

The dealer wasn't even interested in selling the 2000 LC (too old). They were sending it out to auction.

Long story short, I can buy my 07' Sport off lease for well under average retail price and that is what I'm going to do (provided financing comes thru to my liking).

As for LC, probably better off going with a 2003 and up.

 

[stampeder2131]

2000 lc no way

Had a 2000 LC, no power, BADDDD gas mileage. Blew the head gasket at 68,000 and it cost $3,200.00 to fix. Now drive a 05 4RUNNER, flawless at 85,000. The LC was very comfy, well appointed but a brute.

 

[BassMiesterNJ]

Had a 2000 LC, no power, BADDDD gas mileage. Blew the head gasket at 68,000 and it cost $3,200.00 to fix. Now drive a 05 4RUNNER, flawless at 85,000. The LC was very comfy, well appointed but a brute.

Sounds like my 2002 Discovery. Talk about a love/hate relationship.

 

[BassMiesterNJ]

End result:

I bought the 4runner off lease.

Buy out was too good a value to pass up, so I'll drive it at least a couple more years.

Even with zero down, I am not upside down on the loan. Should be a painless transition to another car down the road.