Hilux vs. Landcruiser
 

Ok I now, Probably a fresh Landcruiser (BJ75, HZJ, HJ61, 80, etc) is the prefferably choice for a Europe to South Africa trip..But have anyone any experiences with a Hilux? I have a -98 Hilux, 4x4, Diesel as a suggestion for a trip down to SA. PRobably west-africa way. I can not realy find any good Landcruiser to the right mondey.

So is Hilux sturdy enough?

thanks
anders

Don't worry, I've got a 1994 Toyota 4Runner (hilux Surf). Best bloody light 4x4 around especially with the non ECU 3.0L 1KZ-T engine.

Built on a Hilux chassis they are strong, and more importantly, light, so they give good BHP:GVM ratios,

There are plenty in Southern and Eastern Africa, just don't go for a 2.4 engine - they are prone to overheating.

See my w'site for evidence!
Rgds

enzo
http://www.bundubasher.com

hi!

I got 96' Hilux 2.4D, and I must say, Its a great reliable vehicle, maybe not so comfortable as Land Cruisers, maybe not so powerfull like....Land Cruisers but anyway I love these car and Im sure yours will do that trip with no problems, of course if you take care with it and do a very good preparations for a trip to SA.
In July 2004 I done the trip from Poland via Marocco to Mauritania and here a big loop along the desert. In my hilux was four persons + all the luggage, 150l water and about 140l of fuel for hilux and a motorcycle of my friend, so It was a little bit overloaded i think http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/smile.gif
and what I was so happy about, the water temperature needle was ALWAYS in its constant position, so despite very high temperatures, overloading and weak (only 75KM!!!) engine I have no overheating problems.
I used 10W60 Castrol RS engine oil, very good for high temperatures.

good luck!
Peter