which rig to get next? 100 series vs 1st gen tacoma?

I don't see 35's being easily achieved with a 2" lift on a 100 series; not comfortably anyways. 33" tires an a 2" lift will get you up the trails you're talking about. Maybe it's just me, but I'd rather suffer decreased mpg's due to full plated under-belly, sliders and bumpers then the weight of 35" tires. 33" tires, armor, and a locker or two... Good to go.
 
I know there's probably a lot but what are the differences between the 80 series and 100 series other than looks and price? Would they still make a reliable backcountry rig or not so much?
 
The 80 Series and the 100 Series both say Land Cruiser on the back. ;)

They're two completely different animals.

80 = solid front axle, more aged (higher miles), gas guzzling I6, tough as nails.
100= IFS, powerful V8, bigger than the 80, being proven to be tough as nails as 80 owners trade up for 100's
 
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Spork said:
They do make sweet rigs! If you can stick a doubler in them and fit 33" tires with a Solid axle you're golden. You just got to find some sucker that doesn't appreciate what he has. ;)
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:D

On a serious note I would reflect back on why you sold your Tacoma. I remember you having problems with the expensive steering rack and thinking it was too nice for what you wanted to use it for.

I am with Kurt on the 100 series being more relliable and overbuilt from the factory (less weak Links). A lot of car companies including Toyota do not overbuild their 4x4's like they used too. The Landcruiser is a premium product and that is why you pay more for them.

The 100 series is very popular among overlanding enthusiast for a reason, they are reliable and less likely to leave you stranded. If they weren't a step above the Sequoia or 4runner in quallity I think less people would be building them for the sport.

I also beleive that you get what you pay for. For example a loaded Landcuiser lists at $76,175. A loaded Sequoia lists at $63,080 and the 4runner lists at $42,820 (All vehicle were priced for the current model year). The lists of creature comforts are about the same with all models. The Sequoia has the same 5.7L engine as the Landcuiser so you can't tell me you are paying for more power. In the end I am sure you are paying for a better built vehicle below the leather interior.
 
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Max Power said:
:D

On a serious note I would reflect back on why you sold your Tacoma. I remember you having problems with the expensive steering rack and thinking it was too nice for what you wanted to use it for.
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Yeah, there are a couple downsides to the tacos: weak frame behind the cab, rack and pinion, and the ball joints. I actually loved my taco, it was a fantastic vehicle. The 100 series seems a bit big (wide) and quite heavy. But I could make it work if I had to. I'll take it to the swell this week and see how it does and see if I enjoy it.
 
I love my taco also. For all the weak links it has I have'nt had any problems and I have beat the hell out of it. All I have is a leveling kit and 265s. I have made every trail I have tried I,did have to get a little tug on rusty nail. I like my taco so much I think I would regret it if I sold it.
 
I vote IDI :D

I don't know what to recommend, but I can't wait to see what you come up with. I had a 01 Tacoma as well (3RZ 5speed) and I LOVED it, but for my current needs I would probably have to go with the 100 series. Have you considered something classic like an FJ60 or a Range Rover classic? :eek2:?
 
I test drove a tacoma today. It did not feel good at all. Over every bump it rattled and the front end had a shimmy.

I could definitely build a sleeping platform in the 100, there'd be plenty of room, and I have a few ideas of how that would work.
 
sixstringsteve said:
Yeah, there are a couple downsides to the tacos: weak frame behind the cab, rack and pinion, and the ball joints. I actually loved my taco, it was a fantastic vehicle. The 100 series seems a bit big (wide) and quite heavy. But I could make it work if I had to. I'll take it to the swell this week and see how it does and see if I enjoy it.
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I can certainly understand you missing your Tacoma. There are things I miss about my 98 4Runner. I was not saying Tacomas are not reliable, I was just saying they are not as reliable as a 100 series.
 
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man, I missed out on a great double-cab tacoma last night. Guy wouldn't answer his phone. If I'm not refreshing KSL every 2 minutes, I miss the good ones.
 
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