100 Series vs 80 Series

[DesertCruiser]

Hi. I have a 97 80 Series and am considering picking up another LC/LX. I've had this 80 series for a year and am quickly becoming a LandCruiser fan.

I usually read the 80 Series posts, but would like to know from this group a little more about the 100 Series. I can read the posts to get the basic differences between the two, so I won't bother you with those questions. What I want to know is what are the pros and cons to the 100 Series? Those of you who may have owned both, which would buy over again? Any input would be greatly appreciated!

Brian
97 L/C CE
91,500 Miles
Phoenix, AZ

 

[Gary_UZJ100]

I personally like the comfort that comes with a 100 series. Yes the 80 are nice but i like to be able to ride down the trail in comfort.

 

[jditom]

Depends on your needs.
I love my 80 for off-road. My 100 is a DD. A 100 can be a nice trail rig as well but I like my 80 because it was cheep to buy, easy to modify, smaller/lighter and it has a beefier front end. But if I have to drive 20-100 plus mile on tar the 100 is the only way to go. More power, comfort, fuel efficient, quiet, way better brakes and safety features.
I feel very lucky that I have both.

 

[spressomon]

Hi. I have a 97 80 Series and am considering picking up another LC/LX. I've had this 80 series for a year and am quickly becoming a LandCruiser fan.

I usually read the 80 Series posts, but would like to know from this group a little more about the 100 Series. I can read the posts to get the basic differences between the two, so I won't bother you with those questions. What I want to know is what are the pros and cons to the 100 Series? Those of you who may have owned both, which would buy over again? Any input would be greatly appreciated!

Brian
97 L/C CE
91,500 Miles
Phoenix, AZ

There are several of these threads comparing the 80 & 100. This is but one found in the 100 section. Please search both 80 and 100 forums and you will find more info than you probably want (some info/opinions is subjective, some is objective and some is, well, plain worthless dribble )

https://forum.ih8mud.com/showthread.php?t=127366&highlight=80+100

 

[tech_dog]

I recently wrote this up regarding my observations on the differences. This was on a cross-country trip with the kids, with time in snow and some light off-roading.

https://forum.ih8mud.com/showthread.php?t=127366&highlight=mission+accomplished

Which one would I buy over again? Both.

If I had to choose between them, it would be a very hard choice. It says a lot for the 80 that choosing between a $70K vehicle and an $8K vehicle would be hard.

 

[hoser]

Both great SUV's! If I had room for both, I'd have both. Drive the 100 and you decide.

 

[Filmpros]

I had a 2001 LC 100 Series and just sold that and purchased a 2006 LC 100 Series. I also have a 1997 Lexus LX-450 (80 Series).

I love both of these vehicles. For longer trips, I prefer the 100 Series for the technology (Stereo, Navigation, Bluetooth, Etc.), comfort (More room, heated seats, quieter and the most silky smooth engine on the planet) and ride on the road (Rides more like a luxury car than a truck). This is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned....outside of the 80 series that is. However, I know one thing for sure...I could never be without a 100 series in my driveway.

There is something very special about the 80 Series. These things are built like a bank vault and they feel solid....you can tell immediately when you get behind the wheel and drive one. My 80 series rides more like a truck ... but still has a similar characteristic ride quality when compared to the 100 series. The more "truck" like feel is a big part of what I like about the 80 series.

I think I also prefer the styling, looks, and overall visual appeal of the 80 series over the 100 series. However, I do have one negative comment. I am 6'8" tall and no way is there enough leg room in this vehicle. Head room is OK...but not great. Thank goodness someone here on the forum has a mod kit to extend the seat by a few inches.

Also, the 80 series has a different feel to the engine but not in a negative way at all....just different. The torque seems to come on sooner and stronger. Despite the fact that the 2006 is rated at 57 Foot Pounds and about 63 horsepower more....the 80 series does the job and I do not feel like I am missing anything when it comes to the power or torque I need.

Bottom line, now that I own both, I would not give up owning either. They are both great vehicles.

I would take a 100 series and an 80 series out for a test drive and see for yourself. I would be curious which one you choose...so post back and let us know..

Rich

 

[tech_dog]

I had a 2001 LC 100 Series and just sold that and purchased a 2006 LC 100 Series. I also have a 1997 Lexus LX-450 (80 Series).

I love both of these vehicles. For longer trips, I prefer the 100 Series for the technology (Stereo, Navigation, Bluetooth, Etc.), comfort (More room, heated seats, quieter and the most silky smooth engine on the planet) and ride on the road (Rides more like a luxury car than a truck). This is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned....outside of the 80 series that is. However, I know one thing for sure...I could never be without a 100 series in my driveway.

There is something very special about the 80 Series. These things are built like a bank vault and they feel solid....you can tell immediately when you get behind the wheel and drive one. My 80 series rides more like a truck ... but still has a similar characteristic ride quality when compared to the 100 series. The more "truck" like feel is a big part of what I like about the 80 series.

I think I also prefer the styling, looks, and overall visual appeal of the 80 series over the 100 series. However, I do have one negative comment. I am 6'8" tall and no way is there enough leg room in this vehicle. Head room is OK...but not great. Thank goodness someone here on the forum has a mod kit to extend the seat by a few inches.

Also, the 80 series has a different feel to the engine but not in a negative way at all....just different. The torque seems to come on sooner and stronger. Despite the fact that the 2006 is rated at 57 Foot Pounds and about 63 horsepower more....the 80 series does the job and I do not feel like I am missing anything when it comes to the power or torque I need.

Bottom line, now that I own both, I would not give up owning either. They are both great vehicles.

I would take a 100 series and an 80 series out for a test drive and see for yourself. I would be curious which one you choose...so post back and let us know..

Rich

I completely agree with all of this, except for the engine. I definitely like the extra juice the 06 100 has over the FZJ80.

It's a lot of fun deciding which one to drive on any given day. I'd say it's 60/40 in favor of the 100.

 

[Cruiserdrew]

I hesitate to post in the 100s section, but here goes. I'll post about what I've said before. The 80 is unique. It's weirdly overbuilt in an old school way. Solid axles, full float rears, 6 x 5.5, straight 6 with all the torque down low. It's a dressed up utility vehicle. If you want to remember what Land Cruisers were, 50 years from now, the 80 is the one to keep. It, is a truck. Nothing will be made like this again (for the USA).

The 100 is a great vehicle, almost too good, it just isn't unique. Can you tell me it's that much different than a Tahoe? It's obviously better made, more capable, stronger etc, but it's just Toyota's vision of the same thing. I saw a guy at Sierra Trek in a Ford Expedition. It's the same thing, only with "legendary Ford quality". Toyota goes the extra mile with the 100, and I'd like the V8 in an 80, but the 80 reminds me of my 60 and it's Land Cruiser heritage, and the 100 reminds me of a Tahoe, only better.

Think about this-20 years from now, they won't be making 100s any more either. Are you more likely to see an 80 or a 100 at Rubithon? I guess I see the 80s aging better over time. To me, Cruisers get better every year they exist in the world, and I love my 22 year old FJ60, and my 35 year old FJ40. I just don't see myself feeling the same way about a 100, 30 years from now, even though I will likely own one during that time frame.

So is an 80 better? Not really. The 100 is faster, quicker, bigger, same or better fuel economy. For most uses, the 100 is better, a superior vehicle. The problem is, for most uses a CAR is better, or a MINIVAN is better, than either. It isn't about most uses. Instead, it's about balance. A fairly average 80 can take on the Rubicon trail, and drive home in climate controlled comfort at 80 mph. A well built 100 can take on most trails in Moab and drive home at 90mph. Where each individual exists on that balance beam determines what he will enjoy most in the long run.

So, flame away if you must, but remember, I like all Land Cruisers, and I have great respect for guys who own, drive and build 100s into their version of a perfect vehicle. Don't take what I say too seriously, I'm the guy who lets a perfectly good 80 series sit in the driveway and drives a 60 series every day because I can. For me, personally, I like the historical connection to the past that I feel was broken with the USA version of the 100 series. That may mean nothing to the original poster who asked the 80 vs 100 question for the 999th time.

 

[Filmpros]

I think this was well said....No flames here.

I agree with you...the 80 is Unique...I love it. I would not give up my 100 for a Daily Driver...it rocks....and even though my Infiniti M45 gets better gas mileage and is a superb vehicle in almost ever way...that is the one I gave my GF to drive.

Funny thing is, my GF love the 100 series...and she often wants to drive that over the Infinit M45. She loves it...and does not care much about driving the 80 series. Something about the 80 series not having heated seats, navigation system, and driving like a truck....

No matter, I still smile every time I get in my 80 series turn the key and drive off in the suburban sunset. It a wonderful vehicle and I will always own both...gas prices be damned...

Rich

I hesitate to post in the 100s section, but here goes. I'll post about what I've said before. The 80 is unique. It's weirdly overbuilt in an old school way. Solid axles, full float rears, 6 x 5.5, straight 6 with all the torque down low. It's a dressed up utility vehicle. If you want to remember what Land Cruisers were, 50 years from now, the 80 is the one to keep. It, is a truck. Nothing will be made like this again (for the USA).

The 100 is a great vehicle, almost too good, it just isn't unique. Can you tell me it's that much different than a Tahoe? It's obviously better made, more capable, stronger etc, but it's just Toyota's vision of the same thing. I saw a guy at Sierra Trek in a Ford Expedition. It's the same thing, only with "legendary Ford quality". Toyota goes the extra mile with the 100, and I'd like the V8 in an 80, but the 80 reminds me of my 60 and it's Land Cruiser heritage, and the 100 reminds me of a Tahoe, only better.

Think about this-20 years from now, they won't be making 100s any more either. Are you more likely to see an 80 or a 100 at Rubithon? I guess I see the 80s aging better over time. To me, Cruisers get better every year they exist in the world, and I love my 22 year old FJ60, and my 35 year old FJ40. I just don't see myself feeling the same way about a 100, 30 years from now, even though I will likely own one during that time frame.

So is an 80 better? Not really. The 100 is faster, quicker, bigger, same or better fuel economy. For most uses, the 100 is better, a superior vehicle. The problem is, for most uses a CAR is better, or a MINIVAN is better, than either. It isn't about most uses. Instead, it's about balance. A fairly average 80 can take on the Rubicon trail, and drive home in climate controlled comfort at 80 mph. A well built 100 can take on most trails in Moab and drive home at 90mph. Where each individual exists on that balance beam determines what he will enjoy most in the long run.

So, flame away if you must, but remember, I like all Land Cruisers, and I have great respect for guys who own, drive and build 100s into their version of a perfect vehicle. Don't take what I say too seriously, I'm the guy who lets a perfectly good 80 series sit in the driveway and drives a 60 series every day because I can. For me, personally, I like the historical connection to the past that I feel was broken with the USA version of the 100 series. That may mean nothing to the original poster who asked the 80 vs 100 question for the 999th time.

 

[spressomon]

Pretty much sums it up Andy. It is ALL about purpose when selecting any vehicle (assuming we can separate emotion when making a buying decison). If the 100 had a SFA it would tip the scales toward a more off-road (in my mind the term"off-road" doesn't necessarily conjure up gravel type roads for a definition) capable rig. The build quality is still 100% Landcruiser...it's just tipped, as you say above, toward a more mundane life as it relates to "off-road" usage.

I also think value is relative. When the 200 comes out I think more value will be placed upon the 100 series for those that want a truly universal purpose type vehicle capable of driving through most of what the US has to offer these days from a journey/exploring/camping/sight-seeing perspective (assuming the spy pics of the 200 series are correct: bigger, more powerful, more cush). In much the same way when the 80-series was introduced it took some time to realize its off-road market potential...maybe the 80-series interest for those with an off-road slant peaked when or shortly after the 100 was introduced.

I am just happy Toyota has given us such great choices over the years. I can't say that about the other auto/truck manufacturers as it relates to the overall value and purpose of this type of vehicle; this is what sets the Landcruiser models (all Landcruiser models) apart for me.

 

[ShottsUZJ100]

If you want to remember what Land Cruisers were, 50 years from now, the 80 is the one to keep. It, is a truck. Nothing will be made like this again (for the USA).

but the 80 reminds me of my 60 and it's Land Cruiser heritage, and the 100 reminds me of a Tahoe, only better.

I guess I see the 80s aging better over time.

the Rubicon trail

So, flame away if you must

No flame X2, though I have comments:

1. True....nothing will be made like the 80 again, though that fact really says nothing about which series is better for a given owner.

2. I think Toyota came to the table correctly in 1998 with the 100. They corrected almost everything wrong with the 80. Only did they delete the SFA and that only effects folks on the most severe trails (which are few and far between).

3. I don't see 80's aging better than 100's. The problems are numerous with the 80s whereas you can pretty much drive the 100 without worrying about anything until the occassional repair is needed. Overheating, poor and cutting out A/C, bad head gaskets, creaks and rattles from the weaker frame. etc. Heck, the 100 is the armoured truck, not the 80. One 2 minute ride tells you that. Hit the dirt and there's no comparison. These are operational issues that plague the 80's. I can live with the rare 100-series TPS, starter, and whatever repair that comes along. Both my 80's show me daily that they are a lighter-duty ride compared to the 100.

4. Rubicon....you keep mentioning this one trail. Yes...if that's the only trail you run then an 80 is the better choice. For that matter though a Grand Cherokee is an even better choice....it's smaller.
On 95% of all the other US trails the 100 owner will be smiling ear to ear. His ride cannot be bettered on the planet.
So I do keep an 80 in the stable. There's trails where it's the funner vehicle because it's smaller. There's almost no trail however where it leaves my 100 behind. It's because of this fact that I simply cannot give the 80 the credit others do. When I buy another 100 and down-size it for tight trails the 80's will be gone for good.

 

[ShottsUZJ100]

Hi. I have a 97 80 Series and am considering picking up another LC/LX. I've had this 80 series for a year and am quickly becoming a LandCruiser fan.

I usually read the 80 Series posts, but would like to know from this group a little more about the 100 Series. I can read the posts to get the basic differences between the two, so I won't bother you with those questions. What I want to know is what are the pros and cons to the 100 Series? Those of you who may have owned both, which would buy over again? Any input would be greatly appreciated!

Brian
97 L/C CE
91,500 Miles
Phoenix, AZ

And to answer your question directly:

In just about every way the 100-series is a dramatic improvement over the 80-series....and it should be. Car makers learn things every go-around and impliment the changes in new models.

The only negative to the 100-series would be IF your main focus will be to run PRIMARILY "rock crawl" trails. It is larger than the 80 and will present you with more struggles. On all the other trail types you'll greatly prefer a 100 if it's built the same way your 80 is.

Brian? Phx, AZ? Have you four-wheeled with me here in AZ?

 

[FirstToy]

Andy is a Land Cruiser poet!

I agree that what makes the 80 special is that fundamentally, at the core Toyota will never make something like this ever again for the USA. (but I hope they prove me wrong!)

The design parameter in the late 80's and 90s for an all-conquering, premium SUV did not include the concerns that people have of SUV's today.

This makes the 80 the last and best of the breed, imo.

I won't even compare it to the 100 b/c the 80 stands alone as a representation of "the best" when traversing difficult terrain in difficult situations. There is no comparison to be made, just the 80 is great.

The 100 is built to be the premier, best SUV based on it's design parameters. It stands alone as a brilliant suv on it's own merits but fundamentally, it is a IFS wagon that will be superceeded by another IFS wagon.

It doesn't carry the lineage of past Land Cruisers but instead, started a new one. In this regard, it is a benchmark and set a new (and different from the 80) standard for premium suv's. Even to this day, the only thing that makes the 100 "old" is the hyper competitive market that demands the latest style.

on a purely technical front, I don't like the 100's torsion bar IFS. It is simple and compact but isn't easy to mod at all.
I have only seen one modded front suspension that addresses it but it would have been ideal if it was a coilover setup like the GX470/4Runner/FJCruiser. That is me thinking of modding the 100
I actually really like all of Toyota's current SUV choices and would have no problem living with & modding, enjoying any of them.

 

[SINCITY100]

I must admit,

As bad a$$ (as I think) my 100 is....

I`ll still see a stock 80 on the road and feel, well.... Jealous. "Unique vehicle" is truly an understatement

If only one Cruiser was going to be in the family, however... I would pick a 100 series for many of the reasons mentioned in above posts... It is just plain a more refined and "civilized" rig, and IMO would fit most peoples needs better.

Peace !

 

[ShottsUZJ100]

As bad a$$ (as I think) my 100 is....

Don't just think it. IT IS BAD A$$!

 

[JJ_SC]

Cruiserdrew, that's a great post. I think you captured the passion people have for the 80 really well and you did it in a way that doesn't offend anyone.

Before I bought the 100, I really preferred the looks and reputation of the 80. However, I just couldn't justify the 80 over the 100 based on looks and, more or less, theoretical gains on the trail. Practically, the 100 is so much more advanced and refined for 100% of what I need it for. I, personally, will not be on a trail that will differentiate the two (plus, my heep will be what I build and run the Rubicon with, I'd way rather smash that up - and you FJ40 guys can pull me out when I break my rear axle - but I won't care cuz it's a heep...).

So here's my question: How much of what Cruiserdrew writes about is sentimental? (and I don't mean any disrespect by that). Once the 100 has been around for a while, do you think it will have the same loyal defenders as the 80? Some of the rigs you see in the pictures thread above are pretty bad ass looking (way cooler/tougher than any Tahoe I've ever seen) and there are plenty of people who have pushed the 100 into some knarly terrain and have nothing but praise for it. I wonder if, as time goes on and more and more 100s get into the hands of people willing to push them, they'll lose some of the mall cruiser rep? After all, I thought the 80 marked the end of the "real" land cruiser when it first came out.

 

[uzj100]

This is already starting to happen with the 100. Look at all of Shotts post and this will be more and more documented.

uzj100

 

[ShottsUZJ100]

So here's my question: How much of what Cruiserdrew writes about is sentimental? (and I don't mean any disrespect by that). Once the 100 has been around for a while, do you think it will have the same loyal defenders as the 80? Some of the rigs you see in the pictures thread above are pretty bad ass looking (way cooler/tougher than any Tahoe I've ever seen) and there are plenty of people who have pushed the 100 into some knarly terrain and have nothing but praise for it. I wonder if, as time goes on and more and more 100s get into the hands of people willing to push them, they'll lose some of the mall cruiser rep? After all, I thought the 80 marked the end of the "real" land cruiser when it first came out.

100% guaronteed that the same thing will happen. If you go back to 1991 the 80-series was HEAVILY criticized in the SAME manor. When values dropped and people modified them for 4-wheeling and the things showed just what they could do....previous Cruiser enthusiasts slowly changed their tune. Next thing (or year ) you knew, Cruiser folks said "the 80's the best wheeler ever".

Now zoom to 1998....."the 100 sucks", "no front locker", "IFS?", "Active TRAC?", "the 80 dwarfs it on the trail".........sounds familiar...deja vu.

When I took a brand new 2001 out and ran trails with 80's here in AZ, the 80 owners made negative comments about the 100 on the trail 24/7. Since....NOBODY says a negative word to me on the trail. The 100 has proved itself as an incredible wheeler. Today, I often take lines some 80 owners pass on. Now that prices are dopping on 100's and mods are up folks are building 100's. As this becomes more and more prevalent, you'll see the "tune" change in the Cruiser community. The 100's no Jeep, but it can go!

How....if they go IFS/IRS and make other changes (ala LR3) then this trend could end.

 

[tech_dog]

I think the 80 is more of a classic in the making than the 100.

In 30 years, the 80 will be more sought after, IMHO.

T.