I'm adding clarifying comments to my original posts. You're changing the content and structure of yours all together.
I'm not angry and you don't need to apologize for anything. Like I said earlier, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Nor am I attacking the FJ Cruiser. I actually consider it to be a very competent and affordable overland option. I'm just curious why you consider the 5th gen 4runner a "mini van" while deeming that the FJ Cruiser (and the 4th gen platform form which it is derived) is not? Which differences between the two platforms create that distinction? Even in comparison to the FJ 80, I really don't understand why you'd use that analogy for the 4runner.
I've driven both the 4th and 5th gen platforms quite extensively. I like them both, but I think Toyota made nuanced, but important, improvements to the 5th gen (better ground clearance, wider availability of lockers, better interior to name a few).
I saw Apollo the other day and man I can say that sure is one sweet minivan. I wonder what they would drive if they were spending their own money. Look at real deal people who aren't selling maxtrax and what do they use? pretty sure that T4R is not very high on the list.
Lets look at those crazy SOBs in Australia. What do they drive? Land Cruisers, pretty sure they are a bit past the beating the snot as far as beating their rigs. Whats that? They don't sell T4Rs in Australia? Hmm... wonder why. Same with those crazy Russians.
let me paint you a picture: Lets say you you dump 40K into a brand new 5Gen or an 80 series.
You drive the 5G off the lot. its going to be fine for most people. Probably fine for the first service roads most will see. its going to be pretty plush and a lot more comfortable. you get a warranty. that's important to some people.
You look for a year to find the right triple locked rust free candidate for your build. Once you find it you rebuild or service everything replace whats needed etc. Lift sliders tire carriers, re-gear etc. Get to that 40K price tag pretty quick. Probably more. You now have spent a lot of time and effort but what you built is your own and maybe you learned a thing or two about your rig. But your 80 series is going to eat up anything you can throw at it, and do it class. You can do the Rubicon on 33s on a 3x80 and OME lift without to much effort. Try doing that in your minivan off the lot. But guess what, this ain't no take it into the dealership for oil changes kinda car. and its not going to be as plush. They could use a couple more cup holders. And banks aren't going to finance your 25 year old 80 series.
But, the 80 series is a globally known platform. A real land cruiser. For when not making it back is not an option.
So again, it sounds like "FAN BOY" mantra but thats ok. some people just dont get it.
"The 80 series is ALWAYS THE ANSWER. the real question is are you worthy?"