Jwestpro
Explorer
Aside from pricing whenever it's the new model, would anyone here really consider buying a new G class of either US build for overlanding?
It seem to be a general consensus that nobody will buy a new G class for overlanding or that the people who will buy at new price levels, do not visit any forums so we end up with a biased representation. Currently plenty of you users will say "sure, buy a 2005, or maybe even 2008 G class. This always seems to be a reasoning based mostly on price but back in 2005, who would say to buy one new for overland use? Therefor, how can it be "wrong headed" to buy a new G now and just live with it, indefinitely.
I have mainly had Land Rovers since 1999 with my first being a 1996 Discovery, then I added a 2007 LR3 and upon doing so, realized the days of a true rugged Land Rover were quickly ending so I also added a 2004 Discovery in my all time favorite color scheme, Aspen interior with Vienna Green paint. I was simply in love with the funky UK design ergonomics of high function with quirky design and the large tall box shaped interior......just like a G class, which at the time, I didn't know existed or else I'd probably be living now with one I'd bought back then, new.
Which leads me to the current model G class. Tweaked into perfection or tweaked beyond perfection? The body and frame seems to be better and better in terms of tolerances, less squeaky, better corrosion protection, newer paints and basic materials such as for the door and window trims, gaskets, carpets, etc.
How is it fully sane to buy a well used G while seemingly not sane to buy a new one with plans to keep forever, and ever.
My 2007 LR3 cost me $55,000 new in 2007, plus taxes, then it begged for $25,000 in modifications and additions to be what I wanted it to be. I'm in it for $85,000 plus the practically required extended warranty so really $90,000...for an LR3!
Had I bought a new G500 or G55 back then, I would basically be into it for the same total over time but with a lot less consternation over the past 6 years. I see the G, even a new one, as the only vehicle which will put me back into the place of satisfaction I had when I first drove my 96 Discovery. I cared about almost nothing except what I was doing on any given trip or "where are we going on the next trip?"
So now, present day, what to do? I am ready to move on from the LR3. It's actually quite good, I think it's just not for me though. I have an Audi S4 4.2 v8 6 spd I bought new and love the muscle car feel and and tones it provides, plus it just feels solid and awesome. The new G appeals to me the same way but is obviously also suitable for all my box-on-wheels needs.
Does everyone love the new-newer G class but just find the cost to purchase simply too far out of budget to make sense of it?
I've been very seriously considering a new 2013 Land Cruiser and right now, it's a battle between the two: new G vs new Land Cruiser
1- In the budget column, there's an obvious difference.
2-There are a few other things which are marginally important in the big picture such as a new LC runs on 87 octane specification while any recent G is premium spec.
3-they both have ventilated seats if you like that. I do because many trips are minimum 5 hrs but often multiple days and 8+ hrs each day.
4-I find the G more ergonomically suited for me. It's narrower cabin, nice snug window sill for left arm, very upright seating and view of the world.
5-view, I LOVE the view out of the older Land Rover or the G. Tall windows, low window sill, great sight lines to edges/corners, the scenic experience is wonderful and it's a big part of what drew me into the first disco. Much of my enjoyment in the world comes from the visual experience so the view is key. The LC is ok, but sort of just a taller version of my view out of a ground hugging euro wagon. Nothing like the G view experience.
6-trail use, parking, dimensions: G is 9" shorter bumper to bumper, narrower by a few inches, 4" taller.
7-build concept main differences: G is both solid axles with heavy duty recirculating ball, LC is IFS (great on the road), LC has KDSS which allows more articulation off road while retaining nice highway handling. Both are body on frame, both can use steel springs of choice for loading or towing or lifting. G still uses gutters which allows for multitude of roof uses and solid rack mounting.
8-2013 G550 still uses front brakes that allow 18" wheels from factory, as spec. G63 got brake size increase only allowing 19" factory wheels (this can be remedied by either using previous size brake set from G55 or other 18" wheel/spacer)
*9- tow rating of LC is 8500 lbs while G only states 7000 lb. Yet but are on solid axle and steel springs with G having significant shorter rear overhang and thus a plus on towing stability in that regard. Both have same wheel base. G brakes are far superior. LC brakes could be upgraded simply by fitting Toyota Tundra set.
10-for long drives, LC is far quieter inside at speed and steering/handling is far easier. General comfort on long trips is marginally different. Tank size is similar but LC will have 50 mile more range or better due to 10% better fuel economy.
11-Fuel cost will always be 10% less in LC due to low grade vs premium pricing. Long term LC should be significantly cheaper to maintain from a fluids and parts stance.
12-aftermarket support: LC has many, many options and sources at reasonable costs while G has very few options but they are out there. For example, want supplemental long range fuel tank on the LC, sure, pick from 4 sizes and combinations just from Long Ranger. Want a steel rear bumper/tire carrier for LC pick from a few already made. For the G there are few in these options but at least the tire is already in a good place and on the G, you don't need to buy lockers or all that's involved with many of the "modifications" people go after simply because it's basically ready to go aside from proper tires.
So, where I am on this is that if towing is the primary purpose, putting you out there with a highly capable exploration rig after dropping a trailer, then the LC is an obvious winner. It is of course hard to not see the obvious cost aspect: $ G = $ LC+new Airstream. Yet, if I will always be looking at the G and wishing, might as well get one so I can get on with life.
It seem to be a general consensus that nobody will buy a new G class for overlanding or that the people who will buy at new price levels, do not visit any forums so we end up with a biased representation. Currently plenty of you users will say "sure, buy a 2005, or maybe even 2008 G class. This always seems to be a reasoning based mostly on price but back in 2005, who would say to buy one new for overland use? Therefor, how can it be "wrong headed" to buy a new G now and just live with it, indefinitely.
I have mainly had Land Rovers since 1999 with my first being a 1996 Discovery, then I added a 2007 LR3 and upon doing so, realized the days of a true rugged Land Rover were quickly ending so I also added a 2004 Discovery in my all time favorite color scheme, Aspen interior with Vienna Green paint. I was simply in love with the funky UK design ergonomics of high function with quirky design and the large tall box shaped interior......just like a G class, which at the time, I didn't know existed or else I'd probably be living now with one I'd bought back then, new.
Which leads me to the current model G class. Tweaked into perfection or tweaked beyond perfection? The body and frame seems to be better and better in terms of tolerances, less squeaky, better corrosion protection, newer paints and basic materials such as for the door and window trims, gaskets, carpets, etc.
How is it fully sane to buy a well used G while seemingly not sane to buy a new one with plans to keep forever, and ever.
My 2007 LR3 cost me $55,000 new in 2007, plus taxes, then it begged for $25,000 in modifications and additions to be what I wanted it to be. I'm in it for $85,000 plus the practically required extended warranty so really $90,000...for an LR3!
Had I bought a new G500 or G55 back then, I would basically be into it for the same total over time but with a lot less consternation over the past 6 years. I see the G, even a new one, as the only vehicle which will put me back into the place of satisfaction I had when I first drove my 96 Discovery. I cared about almost nothing except what I was doing on any given trip or "where are we going on the next trip?"
So now, present day, what to do? I am ready to move on from the LR3. It's actually quite good, I think it's just not for me though. I have an Audi S4 4.2 v8 6 spd I bought new and love the muscle car feel and and tones it provides, plus it just feels solid and awesome. The new G appeals to me the same way but is obviously also suitable for all my box-on-wheels needs.
Does everyone love the new-newer G class but just find the cost to purchase simply too far out of budget to make sense of it?
I've been very seriously considering a new 2013 Land Cruiser and right now, it's a battle between the two: new G vs new Land Cruiser
1- In the budget column, there's an obvious difference.
2-There are a few other things which are marginally important in the big picture such as a new LC runs on 87 octane specification while any recent G is premium spec.
3-they both have ventilated seats if you like that. I do because many trips are minimum 5 hrs but often multiple days and 8+ hrs each day.
4-I find the G more ergonomically suited for me. It's narrower cabin, nice snug window sill for left arm, very upright seating and view of the world.
5-view, I LOVE the view out of the older Land Rover or the G. Tall windows, low window sill, great sight lines to edges/corners, the scenic experience is wonderful and it's a big part of what drew me into the first disco. Much of my enjoyment in the world comes from the visual experience so the view is key. The LC is ok, but sort of just a taller version of my view out of a ground hugging euro wagon. Nothing like the G view experience.
6-trail use, parking, dimensions: G is 9" shorter bumper to bumper, narrower by a few inches, 4" taller.
7-build concept main differences: G is both solid axles with heavy duty recirculating ball, LC is IFS (great on the road), LC has KDSS which allows more articulation off road while retaining nice highway handling. Both are body on frame, both can use steel springs of choice for loading or towing or lifting. G still uses gutters which allows for multitude of roof uses and solid rack mounting.
8-2013 G550 still uses front brakes that allow 18" wheels from factory, as spec. G63 got brake size increase only allowing 19" factory wheels (this can be remedied by either using previous size brake set from G55 or other 18" wheel/spacer)
*9- tow rating of LC is 8500 lbs while G only states 7000 lb. Yet but are on solid axle and steel springs with G having significant shorter rear overhang and thus a plus on towing stability in that regard. Both have same wheel base. G brakes are far superior. LC brakes could be upgraded simply by fitting Toyota Tundra set.
10-for long drives, LC is far quieter inside at speed and steering/handling is far easier. General comfort on long trips is marginally different. Tank size is similar but LC will have 50 mile more range or better due to 10% better fuel economy.
11-Fuel cost will always be 10% less in LC due to low grade vs premium pricing. Long term LC should be significantly cheaper to maintain from a fluids and parts stance.
12-aftermarket support: LC has many, many options and sources at reasonable costs while G has very few options but they are out there. For example, want supplemental long range fuel tank on the LC, sure, pick from 4 sizes and combinations just from Long Ranger. Want a steel rear bumper/tire carrier for LC pick from a few already made. For the G there are few in these options but at least the tire is already in a good place and on the G, you don't need to buy lockers or all that's involved with many of the "modifications" people go after simply because it's basically ready to go aside from proper tires.
So, where I am on this is that if towing is the primary purpose, putting you out there with a highly capable exploration rig after dropping a trailer, then the LC is an obvious winner. It is of course hard to not see the obvious cost aspect: $ G = $ LC+new Airstream. Yet, if I will always be looking at the G and wishing, might as well get one so I can get on with life.