80---->60

[Arya Ebrahimi]

I guess I will go against the grain a bit and provide a dissenting opinion. I have an '88 62, two 80's('93 and '94) and an '06 GMC 2500 Duramax currently. I drive the Duramax daily, the '93 80 routinely(3-4 days a week) and the 62 about once every other month or so. The '94 is currently down for the count, but that's a topic for another discussion. When going from the modern amenities, comfort, and power of a 300+HP/600+Ft-Lbs IFS suspended diesel to the 80, I grimace slightly, but the character and handling of the 80 makes me smile. When going to the 62, I just feel destitute. The complete lack of power and radio flyer wagon ride is a sharp slap in the face. Sure it's nostalgic, but I feel like I will either end up doing an engine swap and put more comfortable seats in it, or it will move on down the road to my dad(his best friend was the original owner, and I acquired it when he passed away). I love the classic appearance of the 60/62s, but they are severely lacking in creature comforts.

Just my .02, YMMV

 

[zimm]

i miss my 60. moreso than the pig. i just used it as a DD tho, i couldnt imagine it loaded down.

look for a recent restomod with an autobox and a 5.3 chevy. its just as reliable a pure toyota, twice the power, and parts at any box store cheap. all the cool without the hassle.

 

[dcoy]

The complete lack of power

True. In this day and age I think many people would think of an engine conversion as part of the deal when considering a 60 series for practical use.

radio flyer wagon ride

I must say that is a little bit of a harsh characterization. Given that these are four wheel leaf sprung vehicles, my OME suspended '60 rides differently but not necessarily worse than other more modern vehicles such as the '80s and beyond. Off road or with terrible paved roads, I think it is much more solid. On curvy highways at speed, or in high winds, it's not so awesome. But then, it is 30 year old technology and many of us are buying it more for the former than the latter conditions.

 

[Mike S]

I have owned a 40, a 60, and now an 80. Here's my take on it...

The 80 has positives:
Power
Comfort
Excellent off road capabilities
Proven durability

And negatives:
Heavy
More complex
Poor fuel efficiency

I have a 1996 FZJ80 with factory e-lockers and a number of mods - OME suspension, long range fuel tank, dual batteries, front, rear and side protection, etc. A very nice and capable truck but heavy and thirsty. If this doesn't bother you - go for it.

The 60 has positives:
Rugged
Very simple and easy to work on
Easily modified with good aftermarket support
Good off road capability
A little more interior room than an 80
Better fuel efficiency than an 80 (but still not great

I owned a 1987 FJ60 for years. With OME suspension, H55F 5 speed, FF rear axle, rear sway control, dual batteries it was very driveable and capable. If you do not plan on suspension and transmission changes, it is less driveable. With them it is pretty good and will hold up to nearly anything.

 

[neptunehmb]

20 years from now, an FJ60/62 will be looked at similar to the model T ford as we see it today and the 80 will be the FJ40. Comfort is relevant. No one was complaining back then If you're in it for the comfort, go for a newer LR. If you want to have fun with a tractor, jump on that 60. I have a 2010 JkU rubicon and a 60. I love driving both. But I'm also a die hard manual guy. I wouldn't dream of a sports car without one even thought the autos are faster There's something great about the feeling of driving a vehicle. The JK is my top off driving in nature vehicle and the 60 is my soul surfer. However, that's me.

 

[dtotheatothevtothee]

I got some Mazda 626 seats in my FJ60...pretty comfy :smiley_drive: