Newbie LC questions, 80 and/or 60

[jeffryscott]

I am seriously considering selling the 2001 4Runner and going older with either an 80 or a 60 series. I want to simplify my life, get out of debt, etc, etc ... and the older LC is one idea, in combination with an economical daily driver like a Volvo 240. So, before I put anything into action, I wanted to test drive an 80 to see if I liked it. I made the mistake of driving an 80 today (1993, 131,000, clean Car-Fax) and am smitten. I do want to find a 60 to drive as well, but that will be another day.

In general, what are things to look for on 80s? 60s? Any common problem areas to be aware of?

The whole Land Cruiser bug is new to me, so help me out.

Thanks,

Jeff

 

[a.mus.ed]

Hey Jeff - check the usual places: Slee's newbie guide and the FAQ on mud. Also, there have been a few threads on here, I'll see if I can dig them up for you.

If you want to check out my 80 anytime you're welcome to look it over/drive it. It's not stock anymore, might give you an idea of what you want and don't want.

-cayce

EDIT: Here are some links:
60 vs. 80 thread
80's FAQ
slee

 

[esh]

Now that you've driven the 80, unless you are completely in love with 60 series styling or plan a conversion, you might as well keep to the 80s.

They are more comfortable, very easy to wheel, quieter, more powerful, cheaper mods.

If you *do* think you'll tackle a conversion, get a 60 (not 62). They are already setup for manuals and the later models are setup for an H55.

 

[Corbet]

Stick with the 80.

My 60 does not see much drive time anymore since buying my 80 four years ago. The 80 wheels better and is much more comfortable to daily drive.

 

[gotmud]

I did the same comparison before I got my 80. 60's definitely have the cool factor with regards to their styling. The 80 won out because of the creature comforts. In fact, I sold my '06 Tundra which was my DD and actually towed the 80 home, and made the 80 my DD. I also have an '06 Corolla I thought would make an economical DD because of my 80 mile/day commute. -It sits at home most days.

 

[Jacket]

I think you have to drive at least one 60 to be sure, but with the price of a used 80 these days they are hard to pass up. 60's are easy to work on, parts are everywhere, hardly any electrical stuff to worry about, and it has cool, classic lines. But it's older, has squeaky leaf springs, will always be the last one to arrive at the finish line. 80's aren't much in the power area either, but certainly include many more creature comforts, and coils at all 4 corners make the ride very comfortable.

 

[randito]

I think that you are on the right track with getting an economical daily driver, though it may be counter productive if you're trying to simplify your life. I geneally love working on my vehicles, but if I'm under a time crunch because I need it to get me to work the next day all the enjoyment is gone.

I recently picked up a 60, because I've always had older Toyota trucks and 4Runners and am comfortable with working on them, for the manual trans and for the possibility of swapping in a diesel in distant future. I also like the utilitarian nature of the 60. However, I do think that you get a much bigger bang for the buck with an FZJ80. You should drive a 60 that's in equal condition to that 80 and then decide.

 

[gotmud]

Also, if you have (or plan to have) more than two kids, go for the 80.

 

[Cackalak Han]

Nothing to input regarding the 60/80, but I will say that having owned an '02 4Runner, '98 4Runner and 01 Tacoma, they are far better on the pocket book than a Land Cruiser as far as maintenance goes. Expect parts and labor to cost twice as much (or more) on the Land Cruiser. If you're looking for ways to cut costs, factor that in. Good luck on the hunt.

 

[SoCal_80]

I have had both....And i love my 80. Fuel injection vs. Carb, coils, vs leaf springs....Go with the 80.

 

[gotmud]

Nothing to input regarding the 60/80, but I will say that having owned an '02 4Runner, '98 4Runner and 01 Tacoma, they are far better on the pocket book than a Land Cruiser as far as maintenance goes. Expect parts and labor to cost twice as much (or more) on the Land Cruiser. If you're looking for ways to cut costs, factor that in. Good luck on the hunt.

How so? If you are comparing OEM parts on each of the models you listed, the costs should be similar. Granted there are odd balls, such as a brake booster for your 100 series being close to $2K list, or Iridium plug$. But general maintenance parts shouldn't cost twice as much. Also, stealerships aren't going to quote you different labor costs just because you have a 100 - at least none that I am aware of. Not trying to pick a fight here; just in my experience I haven't known your statements to be true. YMMV

 

[esh]

I have had both....And i love my 80. Fuel injection vs. Carb, coils, vs leaf springs....Go with the 80.

Keep in mind 60s and 62s are completely different animals very similar to how 91-92 80s are so different from 93+, so driving just one will not get you the feel of both. If I were eyeing a conversion I would find a clean 60 that already has bits for an engine conversion.

Still think an 80 is the way to go for a truck you want to drive out of the box.


btw, my "60" has had two engines in its life, both fuel injected, the latter was an upgrade and not because the original was failing after 230k. :sombrero:

 

[Pskhaat]

Dr. Jeffry, I'm glad you're considering my dark side

I've owned both 60 & 80 and concur with everyone--as I think I know your driving expectation--you'd be happier in an 80. Flame bait I must be, but don't forget to at least consider the 91-92 FJ80s, they are not as HP happy, but can be negotiated much lower $-wise and have a few interesting perks over their younger and faster FZJ80 brethren.