Decisions, decisions: '07 FJ Cruiser vs '01 LX 470

[willgabriel]

Okay, first of all, I know I am on the 100/470 forum. Bias is expected. However, I am looking for wise advice.

I have owned two 80 series (a '95 and a '97) and loved them. Recently, I have realized I'd like to get back into a Toyota SUV after owning a 2000 BMW 540i (M sport, 6 speed manual; GREAT car!). The Bimmer just doesn't haul a yellow lab or my road bicycle though it is awesome to drive.

So, there are a plethora of used FJ Cruisers out there. I know they are lauded for their from-the-factory off-road capabilities (not perfect, but good), and frowned upon for their bumpers and sight lines.

I have several offers from dealers involving 2007 FJC's (4x4) in all colors with manuals and auto's with anywhere from 32k miles to 43k miles ... the best offer thus far: $19500 (silver, 4x4, 43k miles, clean, two owners).

My other choice is a 2001 Lexus 470 with 88k miles. I know this is an apples to oranges comparison. I am not a serious off-roader, and do mostly commuting with some off-roading, so the Lexus and 100 LC seem more practical if I am choosing b/w the FJC and the LX/LC.

The current offer from the Lexus dealer on a very clean, white LX470 with 88k miles is $18,700.

Opinions? I know the Lexus will last for many, many miles, but the 88k miles vs the FJC's 43k miles is a factor. Then, there are the other issues: the Lexus is nicer by far, but the FJC is seemingly more rugged (and I like the way it drives; sight lines weren't an issue). If I could get the dealer down to $17,700 for the Lexus, the choice may be easier. Oh, and I like 100's, but this Lexus is the best value (features, miles, and price) I have found in three weeks ...

Sorry for the L O N G post. Again, thoughts and opinions?

 

[4Peanut]

LX/LC.

While you may purchase the FJ and think, "I wish I got the LX/LC," if you purchase an LX/LC I don't believe you'll think, "I wish I got the FJ." Also, if you do regret the LX/LC purchase [which I have already stated you won't] an LX/LC should be easier to sell--and possibly at a profit--than an FJ.

I look forward to hearing others' opinions.

 

[willgabriel]

Good point, 4Peanut. What about the price and mileage for and on the LX470? What do you think of both?

 

[dclee]

I would be a little wary of a truck that new already having had two owners.

My sister has an FJC and I have a bit of saddle time in it. Altogether it's actually a pretty impressive vehicle. Yeah, there are definite sight-line issues and huge blind spots, and the fuel tank hangs down below the axle, and the lamps bulge out waiting to be crushed by the next tree you drive by, but overall pretty capable and fine for the daily commute.

Still, I'd take the 100. But I have a family. If it's just you and your dog, the FJC might actually be a better choice.

My $0.02,

 

[spressomon]

88K on the Lexus, assuming its been given care by the PO(s), is just getting broken in: Seriously! Get the dealer to do the 90K PM. This normally includes the timing belt but most will find a seeping water pump around this mileage and possibly idler pulleys along with a coolant flush and refill with Toyota Red; so get them to do that as well. Then you've got your deal.

Remember the '01 is going to be difficult if not impossible to finance compared to the '07 FJC. This bodes well for you if you have cash...as I doubt they have tons o'folks clamoring to take it off their hands given the current state of economic affairs.

Be patient...this is a great time to purchase a Land Cruiser!

 

[willgabriel]

Excellent points by all. The FJC's are good vehicles. I simply think the novelty of it may grow old after a few years - especially as it is a daily driver.

Otherwise, spressomon, I do have the cash, and will ask them to do the 90k PM. I sent a counter-offer of $17,700 ... if I could get them to accept that PLUS the 90k PM, you think I should go for or it? I'm thinking a better deal may be hard to find considering this one is close by, and the LX470 in question is immaculate.

 

[spressomon]

Excellent points by all. The FJC's are good vehicles. I simply think the novelty of it may grow old after a few years - especially as it is a daily driver.

Otherwise, spressomon, I do have the cash, and will ask them to do the 90k PM. I sent a counter-offer of $17,700 ... if I could get them to accept that PLUS the 90k PM, you think I should go for or it? I'm thinking a better deal may be hard to find considering this one is close by, and the LX470 in question is immaculate.

One last thing: Be sure to get down and look closely at the undercarriage. The upside/body may be in near perfect condition, as mine was, but be sure to check for surface rust underneath. Another potentially good bargaining chip. LC's are not tolerant of salted roads and/or coastal salt air.

Other than that it sounds like it could be a very good deal for you.

 

[LandCruisers4Life]

Well I have had both. Really like both, but both also have their points. If you want lots of room, go for the LX/LC. If you really like the FJ, go for it but remember you will have limited space. I don't really consider mileage on Toyotas unless they have over 200,000 and then that becomes an issue of whether maintenance was done or not.

Like Dan said, have the dealer throw a 90,000 mile maintenance into the deal for no extra charge and change the coolant and I'd go for the LX. The ride is much better, and you can do PLENTY off road with a big 100 series, believe me.

 

[socalsuv]

Recently, I have realized I'd like to get back into a Toyota SUV after owning a 2000 BMW 540i (M sport, 6 speed manual; GREAT car!). The Bimmer just doesn't haul a yellow lab or my road bicycle though it is awesome to drive.

I had 2000 540i. I now have a 2001 LX470. I use it to transport dogs, bikes, camping / climbing gear, building supplies (unbolt and remove all rear seats and you can put a hurtin' on the Home Depot), as well as long road trips with the wife. It will appeal to your "luxury car" side as well as the practical.

Go for the LX. You'll love it.

 

[KY Longhunter]

What would you do? 100 series

If you had $20,000 would you buy an FJ Cruiser or a 100 series???

P.s. I'm posting this on FJ Cruiser tech too...

 

[uzj100]

I would buy a 00 or 01 LC, do PM, add lift, front rear arb lockers, sliders, front arb bumper and winch and call it a day. I prefer the wagon layout. If the FJ was offered with a removable roof, then my choice would maybe change.

 

[Marco7]

no love?

No love for the X5 eh? LOL
Can't blame you there.

I'd go with the 100 series over the FJ. I've been taking my time in looking for one also. The FJ is a fine vehicle but I prefer 4 doors that open & close independently.
And the FJ's bold styling is a bit too bold for me.
Just make sure the 00 or 01 LX isn't the Smoky Topaz color. Or if it is, be sure it's been repainted already. Otherwise you will have problems with the paint fading.

Also make sure any 00 or 01 LC/LX shifts properly, the potential tranny issue is well documented here too.

 

[BManning`]

Two great vehicles, two different 'specialties' in my mind.

Any year LX/LC is unbelievably versatile; floats down the road like an oversized lux sedan, but can hang with Jeeps* off-road all day. It's that dual-nature of the vehicle that many (myself included) find extremely appealing.

The FJ Cruiser, to me, would shine most for the person who rarely needed to carry people or gear, perhaps didn't drive a ton of miles, and wanted something to take out on weekends and really bounce around.

If was 20 again and going camping & off-roading with buddies all the time, I'd go for the FJ. At 37 with my current lifestyle and the amount of time I get to 'play,' the LC is the best choice for me.

* = where it fits!

 

[KY Longhunter]

I would buy a 00 or 01 LC, do PM, add lift, front rear arb lockers, sliders, front arb bumper and winch and call it a day. I prefer the wagon layout. If the FJ was offered with a removable roof, then my choice would maybe change.

What does PM mean?

 

[4Peanut]

PM [in this context] = Preventative Maintenance

 

[willgabriel]

Thanks again to all of you for all the helpful advice.

Here is another option I am seeking comments on: I have also found a 1999 Lexus LX470, gold, in very good condition, with only 59,000 miles on it. The lowest I have been able to get the seller (dealer) down on it is $18k. Book values are all over the place for this vehicle with NADA and KBB giving more credit for the low miles ($4-5k credit; $18-19.5k total), and Edmunds (w/ fair market value estimator) giving $1700 for low miles, and saying $15k is a good price. The dealer came down $1700 already and claims he doesn't have room to go lower.

Thoughts? How much is a 59k 1999 LX470 worth (yes, I know this is subjective, but there must be an agreed-upon intrinsic value b/s informed "Mudders," right?)?

Thanks ...

 

[Trunk Monkey]

'99's are down to just over $10-11. Figure super clean and low miles, maybe $14ish.

 

[willgabriel]

Yea, that was what I was thinking as well, TM. Perhaps this Chevy dealer does have too much in the vehicle, but I can't imagine - with the Black Book value being $13.5K, that he would have given much more than that. The low mileage and condition are very attractive, but not at $18k. $14-14.5K seems like a best offer IMO.

 

[uzj100]

Check for all the VIN stickers and make sure it was not wrecked. The price is way to high, dealers never have to much in it. They probably got it in on trade and paid the person 10k at the most for it.

 

[willgabriel]

Yes, sir, uzj100. That is exactly what I thought too. I emailed the dealer back and said I had cash and would not pay more than $14k tops - if that considering fair market values, and expert advice. We'll see. I do think the vehicle is solid (no wrecks, etc) otherwise.