It all comes down to budget. I prob. would have bought a LC 80 or sim if I had had the money at the time, I didn't though, and so I make the best of what I've got.

My 4Runner shares its engine with the LC 70, 73 and 77 as well as the early Prado's/Colorados. Modern Colorado's/Prados have the uprated KZ-TE engine (EFI) whereas the 4Runner has the older (non-EFI) KZ-T, less electronics are better for bush repairs. Best mod I did though was to increase the size of the radiator: from 3 core to 5 core.

If the LC you buy comes with a big 4.2L diesel lump then all the better - they go on forever, but the later models have more electrickery so look for earlier models. Good 76 and 78 series LCs can be bought from Gov auctions in Oz and they usually come with all the kit necessary for a long run: extra tanks, bullbars, snorkel, split-rims etc and NO japanese chrome!

4Runners have huge luggage space but are restricted for more than two adults. They are great for 2 adults and two kids but try sticking two adults in the back for any length of time then it wouldn't belong before the waste product hits the proverbial whirly bladed object. What I was going to do when I planned to take 1 client on a trans african trip was lose the back seat: suddenly you have ACRES of space to fill! And a few handy attachment points too. But you'll have to make a plan for the roof rack - I've got a full length one that is excellent and cheap to make up.

Anyway, you pays your money...

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Enzo