Angus Grant

New Member
Looking to purchase a new 4WD, and deciding between an early 100 series cruiser and a GU from around the same year. Budget is $6k-$10k, and it needs to be an auto. Will probably end up with a petrol model due to budget.

Would like to know what people think are the main differences, particularly in regards to
-4WDing (touring and tough tracks)
-reliability (and how many kays is too much)
-FUEL ECONOMY

Would be highly appreciative of some advice :)
 

madmonk

Active Member
Generally speaking, a GU or a 100 series are pretty much on par in terms of reliability and suitability. There will be slight differences such as the driveline in the Patrol described as being stronger than the Cruiser; whilst the 3.0 litre diesel (ZD30) Patrol motor has a reputation of being a bit of a bomb. Then there is the whole IFS via solid axle debate. If you want a solid axle then you should look for a 105 as is basically a 100 series body mounted on an 80 series chassis

Fuel economy. You will probably get much better fuel consumption with a diesel than a petrol of either make. However, this makes the diesel variants a lot more popular so you may find it hard to get a good version in your price range.

This are generally comments and observations as I only have owned an 80 series.
 

2002GU3

Well-Known Member
G'day mate, welcome to earth, if you get a petrol motor they are both much of a muchness, the Patrols have stronger diffs and drive train in general, comfort and features will depend on what you like, I personally think the Patrols are more comfortable, as for fuel economy - they will both use heaps but a petrol engine is a lot cheaper to maintain than a diesel engine, K's will depend on the way the car has been looked after over it's useage, a well maintained petrol engine can get 500.000-600,000 K's ........................
 

Jaye

Well-Known Member
Between the two, I would just go with the best value for money on the day. It could be the best kept/maintained or lowest km. It could be which one has the most mods vs price. Both choices are pretty much equal in pretty much all areas with pretty much just a badge separating them. Some pretty nice petrol 4x4's getting around which are a bargin if you can afford the fuel.
 

Albynsw

Well-Known Member
Between the two, I would just go with the best value for money on the day. It could be the best kept/maintained or lowest km. It could be which one has the most mods vs price. Both choices are pretty much equal in pretty much all areas with pretty much just a badge separating them. Some pretty nice petrol 4x4's getting around which are a bargin if you can afford the fuel.

Agree with this 100%. You will have those with personal preferences but they are both fine vehicles so just look for the best value for your money
 

Angus Grant

New Member
Thanks for the advice it’s much appreciated. Probably going to go with a petrol 105. Does anyone have an idea of how many kays is to many if the car has been kept in good condition with little off-road use?
 

Superdad

Well-Known Member
Thanks for the advice it’s much appreciated. Probably going to go with a petrol 105. Does anyone have an idea of how many kays is to many if the car has been kept in good condition with little off-road use?

The key thing to be aware of is the timing belt. These have to be changed every 150,000km. The water pump is usually done at the same time too. as long as this has been done and it has been services you should get 400,000+

Mine (2004, V8 petrol) is at 280,000km and still runs as smooth as silk...
 
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