If you're serious about importing and the 25 year requirement, danged if I wouldn't add a Nissan Patrol to that list. They're just flat tough vehicles from that era. I've no clue why this site pretty much ignores their existence. Turbo Diesel equipped ain't a problem.
Yah they are awesome, I got to see lots of them when I was overseas. But third row is only suitable for kids, even if that.
Not enough size difference to matter, they're of the same 'class'
2003 Excursion
Wheelbase 137.1
Track f/r 68.4/68.1
Overall Length 226.7
Overall Width 79.9
2003 Suburban
WHEEL BASE 130 in.
Track f/r 65/66
Length 219.3
width 78.8
Wow I guess I should have looked it up, but I didnt realize they were so close. The excursion just looks so much bigger
When I was shopping for my Suburban I came across at least two GMT800 Suburban 2500's that had been converted to LBZ diesels with the Allison 6 speed tranny. Asking price was round 20k - 25k depending on condition. I would think that would fulfill all your requirements and still be easier to find parts for than a Troopy or similar import.
.
Edited to Add: Here you go:
http://duramaxsuburbans.com/
I have seen those as well, but all of the ones I saw were like 40k I thought? If you find one for that price shoot it my way!
Get a gas Suburban. Convert it later if you want, but that's a lot of $$ to put into it. I'd imagine you'd break even....in 20 years.
I think that might be the ticket, however I am going to go look at a 97 K2500 Suburban that already has a Cummins swap sometime this week :Wow1:
Seems like importing a 25 year old vehicle, you would be fixing things more than driving. Companies like Eco-Offroad...seem like they have a long list of repairs just to get it road worthy.
My vote is a SLC Special.
I agree on the 25 yo vehicle, I'm sure they can be a hassle. My Unimog was easy for parts, but there are a few dedicated companies
And wow thats awesome! Much too big, but freaking sweet haha
wait wait wait, I have a solution....with a quad steering out of GM...
I wonder how strong that rear axle is....
In all seriousness, a van is probably the best option.
Have you shown her a Sprinter or Transit? Checks all the requirements. Diesel, seating, towing...
Not cheap though.
I have not seen the Transit van one, that is sweet! Going to look at them now!
It would definitely be possible and nearly all the Commanders in Europe are CRDs. The big issue would be that the Commander is definitely not a practical or comfortable proposition for transporting 6 people and their gear. As much as I loved mine, I now have to admit, despite appearances, it was not as practical as my WK. The rearmost seats could not be considered adult size as they sit virtually flat on the floor with no legroom, and with them deployed there is zero luggage space.
I have a feeling that would be much harder than it sounds. Not with any fab work or even mounting anything, but with the electronics and dealer programming and getting everything to talk.
The Mega Cab Ram with front and rear bench seats have a crap load of space in them.
Is the front middle seat really that comfortable?
