Thinking About Trading for a 2000 LC

[Jeffrey_VB]

Thinking about trading my '06 Runner for a 2000 Cruiser. I have asked for advice/input over on ExPo and LC/4Runner sites on Facebook. Thought I would ask for that same input from the 4Runner side of the fence.

Used 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser for Sale in Virginia Beach VA 23464 Maguire and Sons

Maintenance looks good, based on Carfax. One owner. Interior is a little rough, some clear coat issues on the driver's door. I think I can get an even trade for my Runner, but my concern is the increase maintenance/repair costs.

Any thoughts? Input?

 

[phishtaco]

I personally would rather have a 100 series over my t4r. I would probably shy away from a 2000 MY because of the possible tranny issues. It seems like if you get the tranny past 100k miles they are fine. Check out ih8mud for more info. I like the size of the 100 vs my t4r plus I think I could use the 3rd row.

 

[RunnerAK]

It depends, what do you need the vehicle for? Do you need the extra space? Do you mind the massive mpg hit and higher cost of parts compared to your 4Runner?

I was originally looking for a 100 series LC before I bought my 4Runner, but they're as rare as hen's teeth up here and nice used ones go for a premium. I ended up with my '06 V8 which I consider a "baby" LC. It has a very similar drivetrain to the 100 series (4.7 V8, IFS, full-time 4WD) in a smaller, cheaper, more fuel efficient package. I still admire 100 series trucks when I see them, but my wallet thanks me every time I go on a long road trip, or have to do any maintenance.

If you do decide to go with a 100 series, I'd suggest holding out for an '03 or later so that you can get the 5 speed transmission. It improves the fuel efficiency a bit, and seems to have a better reputation than the 4 speed in that platform.

 

[chitown40]

I came from a 2001 Land Cruiser. Actually almost straight traded it for my 2006 SR5.

The cruiser is very comfortable, but slightly underpowered with the 4.7 when loaded up. Empty it's not bad, but you're still lucky to get 12-13 MPG mixed driving. On a long hwy trip I got one tank at 16mpg with the rest in 14-15mpg range.

Maintenance is slightly more expensive than a 4Runner. I think the 4Runner is a better value for an all-around vehicle that gets decent mileage for a Body-on-frame truck. Cargo space on the cruiser is nice. It's big. But, a rooftop cargo pod on a 4runner quickly helps it catch up for those few times a year you need the extra space.

I like the coil sprung front end of the 4Runner better than the torsion bars on the Cruiser.

Also, why is the last picture on your ad link of a 4Runner interior door?

 

[28.]

I have both and love both. The Land Cruisers are an exellent vehicle for long time travel and outstanding when choosing to take the road less traveled. It's also nice to drive something a little different. Just don't see that many compared to other SUVs..To be quite honest though I had my 4runner longer but the Landcruiser has always been a dream vehicle for me. Quite frankly id be lying if I sat here and said I could part with either one..

Just did Black Bear Pass on our 05 LX470 with a bunch of the IH8MUD guys.. Was a blast..

She cleaned up nicely afterwards lol

My 04 4runner

 

[boondoggle]

Yeah that's a tough one I think a lot of us pondered at some point.

I too consider the T4R a 'baby LC' but everytime I see an LC I start trying to justify the MPG hit and I just can't do it. Same drivetrain, both made in Japan (I know the LC is superior). Are the 5th Gen 4Runners even made in Japan (too lazy to google, sorry).

Maybe one of these days...

Most of the LCs out here have a lot of miles on them though so I keep thinking I better get a 'fresh' one while I can. I don't care for the design of the new LCs.

edit: yes, 5th Gen runners are still made in Japan.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/114449-2012-still-build-japan.html

 

[AKmoney]

Speaking as someone who daily-drives an E90 BMW and thinks the on-pavement dynamics of the 4Runner are barely adequate, I wouldn't consider swapping my truck for a 100-series Land Cruiser unless I absolutely needed the extra space. In fact, that's one of the reasons the 4th gen 4Runner attracted me in the first place: A relatively compact package that could easily share a 2-car garage with another vehicle, yet with very competent levels of power and off-road capability. I love Land Cruiser but I really don't need something that big.

 

[ironhippy]

There is some really great advice in this thread.

I have an 80 series (LX450) and I am going to buy a 4Runner to (sort of) replace it. The Land Cruiser is great, but has it's draw backs as others have mentioned.

check out ih8mud, it is quite a community, you will have access to cheaper parts, mechanical advice and community support simply by buying a truck.

I am keeping my Land Cruiser, but it will truly become a weekend/offroad rig. I had originally planned to use it as my travel vehicle, but the gas mileage is just so horrible, I can't justify the need for extra room.