100 series 1998-2002 vs 2003-2007

[alethal]

Hi everyone, I'm a complete new comer but am looking at getting my 1st Land Cruiser. I've always wanted a 100 series but as someone who has little first hand knowledge I was hoping I could get some opinions. Is there a major difference in the 4-speed automatic transmission and the change to the 5 speed and the other transmission changes that came in 2003?

 

[DFXR]

I love my 2000 (4-speed), but if I had to do it over again I would hold out for an 03+ (5-speed). Slightly better mileage with the 5-speed but mostly you're spinning at lower RPMs on the highway, which is nice if you put a lot of miles in. I've driven both and it's noticeable. But the pre-03s will be cheaper, so there's that.

 

[alethal]

Thanks for the input! Now to find a 2003+ without the integrated navigation

 

[MidTex]

Finding a 2003+ without nav is like finding the proverbial needle in a haystack. I'm not saying you can't find one but it will be very difficult. If you want the 5 speed you will probably have to accept that it comes with the nav system.

 

[Sandroad]

http://www.sleeoffroad.com/newbie/newbieUZJ100.htm

 

[CurbsEnthusiasm]

While I would love to have the 5spd, if you find a great deal for a clean 98-02 I'd say go for it.

 

[LX5708]

So if I cruise at around 2k Rpm's at 65mph in a 4 speed 99, what would the 5 speed cruise at?

 

[alethal]

Thanks everyone who has chimed in. The Slee guide is great. As I said I'm new to the LC world. So I can read the differences between the 2005 and the 2006 models. So the vvt-i change to the engine. Big upgrade? The active height control, is it something I want? Something that would make upgrading the suspension difficult? Something to seek after or to avoid?

I'm finding not a huge difference between 2005 and 2006 pricewise when looking at models with 115k to 140k miles. So the million dollar question is to buy a 2003, 2005 or 2006? I see pluses and minuses to each on paper but from a practical application I don't have enough experience.

I'm planning on using it for a daily driver, Mountain biking and camping weekends, hauling a small trailer around. Over the course of a year or two I'd like to slowly make upgrades.

All thoughts and recommendations welcome.

 

[Junglejack]

The change to a 5sp will make a far more meaningful impact than the change to vvt-i in MY 2006-2007. Considering the price delta between 04-05 and 06-07, I really do not think the juice is worth the squeeze. Moreover, with the vvt-i using different parts in certain areas, replacement parts are not nearly as plentiful with the attendant typical higher pricing.

 

[LandCruiserPhil]

On the highway the VVTi is well received. Some worry about the air pump but these days is a ~$200 bypass will end any worries. My advice is to buy the newest model in the best condition you can afford.

 

[Cruzin00]

07 non nav in OKC @ thoroughbred motors. Just saw the listing today!

 

[alethal]

Ooh nice eye! I'm not sure I really want to pay a $4k premium for no nav though. There is a very similar 2007 with nav in Chicago for 22k. And there is a 2006 and 2005 in my town (Charlotte NC). Some tough decisions. I get my moving expenses reimbursed on 9/1 and then it's time to buy.

 

[LandCruiserPhil]

I want it all and dont want to pay a penny more

 

[alethal]

Who doesn't And you forgot, no matter how great of a deal you might find, deep down you have to know as soon as you buy it a cheaper one with lower miles will hit the market.

 

[TeCKis300]

If you tow at all, I would highly encourage you the look at the later models. 5 speed or even 5 speed +vvti. When loaded, the VVTi makes all the difference in the world.

 

[Bubba68CS]

Ooh nice eye! I'm not sure I really want to pay a $4k premium for no nav though. There is a very similar 2007 with nav in Chicago for 22k. And there is a 2006 and 2005 in my town (Charlotte NC). Some tough decisions. I get my moving expenses reimbursed on 9/1 and then it's time to buy.

Chicago is far more likely to have significant corrosion issues than OKC...not saying it does, just that chances are very, VERY high...

 

[alethal]

Excellent point Bubba. I grew up in Arizona where rust was a myth. 4 years in Connecticut made me realize how bad it could be.

 

[Cruzin00]

Chicago is far more likely to have significant corrosion issues than OKC...not saying it does, just that chances are very, VERY high...

The Carfax shows the OKC came from Puerto Rico. I just bought my 2000 from them a few weeks ago. The owner is a great guy who's son has an infatuation with LC's like we do!