Saguache
Adventurer
The XJ and the Delica aren't even slightly comparable. It's like comparing apples to Baby Star Crispy Noodle Snack. All kidding aside, they're extremely different. The Delica is forward control, so you sit right atop the front wheels. Handling is way different, as you sit very high up. Power. I guess you could call it that. The 4D56 (non intercooled turbo version) makes 104 hp or so and like 147 lbs/ft of torque. It's slow at best. It'll cruise at 60 on the factory 215-SR-15 tires. Bump up to a 30x9.5 (the largest without rubbing), and you can do 65 ... at least until the speed chime comes on (make sure you speakers are on).
Towing: I'm told you can tow. Rising Sun out of British Columbia makes a hitch. It's like $400 or something. I don't intend on towing with our L300. I think you can tow 600 kg (1,300 lbs.) without trailer brakes.
Hills are slow going. I still need to get an EGT (exhaust gas temperature) gauge.
That being said, I love this thing. It's a hoot. So long as you're not in a rush, they're a lot of fun. They're decently capable off the pavement for a tall-*** van. We had ours on Lippincott Grade in Death Valley, and it did well. But it takes some getting used to because 1) you're on the wrong side of the vehicle and shifting with your left hand 2) aforementioned forward control 3) it's top heavy 4) not a ton of suspension travel.
My advice for those who chose this route is much the same as when I drove VWs. Chose to make 'good time' with an emphasis on 'good'.