01 LX470 or 06 LR3SE
Newbie post to an old thread.
My Goal: Purchasing a capable overland travel vehicle that requires minimal up-fitting
I’m in the process of searching for LX470 or LR3 to set up as an overland travel rig. Mainly its off highway use will be tracks, trails, probably nothing extreme. We’ll spend 10days +/- in it at a time, so its got to be able to carry a load, and be comfortable. I expect to drive it 1,500 -2,000 miles of interstate to & from my vacation spot to then head off road for extended 5-6 day trips, so its got to have nice road manners and has to be capable off road in relatively stock form. I’ve chosen theses two vehicles because they check several boxes for me: very capable in stock form, reasonable hauling capacity, comfortable and roomy. Both platforms are are well supported in the aftermarket (not with out opposing reputations). I’ve got a tight budget of $15k.
For $15k what can you get? 2001-2004 LX470/LC with 150+,000 miles, in a proven solid reliable Toyota platform. Or a 2006-2008 LR3 SE with 100k miles for under $12k with change left over to make repairs or upgrades.
I’ve studied at length the pros & cons, and fully aware of the LR3 reputation, but it is still on my list for these reasons: Compared to the LX470 the Yes LR3 has poor resale, the flipside is lower up front cost, 4-5 years newer ,lower miles and usually in better condition inside & out, and ofcourse very capable in stock form. I think the majority of bad rap the LR’s get are initial ownership; first 100k miles of ownership. I figure that the majority of major issues have presented themselves by 100k- with the exception of the airbag suspension and regular maintenance. The unknown for me is how will the LR3 stack up from 100,000k to 200,000k?
Considering that which ever vehicle I choose I will be initially putting $2k in service related expenses, sorting out worn items and doing some proper PM to create a reliable rig. We know the reputation the Toyotas have as pretty reliable vehicles that see 200-250-300,000 miles. Question is what is the cost of ownership & maintenance for the LC/LX470 between 150k-and 250k miles vs the LR3 from 100k to 200k miles? Are the cost of parts relatively the same? For work that requires a mechanic are the labor rates and flat rate hours similar? Once the major issues are sorted out I have the feeling that there isn’t much difference in cost to operate, which is why I posted this to learn from more experienced owners.
Circling back to my goal: On a $15k budget, buying a capable overland travel vehicle that requires minimal up-fitting. I am at a cross roads and looking for some input from LR3 owners and 100 Series owners to add some input to my decision process. I have access to a clean 06 LR3 98,000 miles for 10k, or a 2004 LX470 with 150K for 15k, or a 01 LX470 with 150K for $12,900.
Thanks