100 test drive in SoCal

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lhfungo

lhfungo

10 Year
Joined
Sep 30, 2012
Threads
8
Messages
55
Location
Whittier, CA
I am close to pulling the trigger on an 04 LC but I have to go out of the area to get it. My wife won't be able to travel with me but would like to gain familiarity with a similar vehicle. Is there anyone local to Whittier, CA that can give her a 5 minute tutorial and let her drive around the block?
 
I'm in Santa Monica so that's kind of a hike but she could drive mine. I've driven other Mudders 40s, 60s and 80s when the second LC bug kicks in. So I feel like it's my duty.

What kind of configuration are you looking for though? Driving one with a lot of mods is going to feel very different from driving a stock 04. Have you taken her to any of the dealerships or carmax's selling stock 100s?
 
KlausVanWinkle said:
I'm in Santa Monica so that's kind of a hike but she could drive mine. I've driven other Mudders 40s, 60s and 80s when the second LC bug kicks in. So I feel like it's my duty.

What kind of configuration are you looking for though? Driving one with a lot of mods is going to feel very different from driving a stock 04. Have you taken her to any of the dealerships or carmax's selling stock 100s?
Click to expand...

Not only that but there's even a big difference between driving a stock 2000 versus a stock 2004. Before I started modding my 2002 LC, it was already quite a bit different than my parents stock 2005 LX470. Not to mention, my mods are quite minor compared to most of the board. I mean it's better than nothing, but it's going to be like comparing apples to oranges in your case.
 
Klaus, thanks for your offer. I think it does make more sense for my wife to drive something a little closer to stock for her first go around. The year difference doesn't concern me much because her comfort is going to be determined by being able to see clearly through all windows when backing up, changing lanes, etc. Aside from visibility, the overall vehicle dimensions are something that she wants to be comfortable with. I know it will be night and day compared to my previous CCLB 4x4 diesel truck. If anyone is a little closer to my neck of the woods I'd love to hear from you. Otherwise I will try to scout one out at a local dealer.
 
I have a stock 2000 LC. I'm not exactly in your neighborhood, but if you're up this way let me know. I'm close to a Metrolink/ Amtrak station too.

FWIW, I think she will be pleasantly surprised at the visibility. I can't think of any blind spots when there aren't people in back. I was driving a VW Jetta and I think the visibility is better and the turning radius is almost as tight. The ride height is about the same as an F-250 so if you combine all those windows and the ride height you have a great view. Nothing like jumping in with both feet, but my first time in a cruiser was my test drive and I was surprised at how good the visibility was.
 
Visibility out the back/sides are great except for when theres a miata behind you then you can't see them. My wife says its easier to reverse with than her corolla. The headrests block the most. I usually only put them back on when i have passengers.
 
I'm just down the freeway from you in Rowland Heights, but I don't think my truck will serve your purpose. Lifted, rear tire carrier, etc.

So, I agree with earlier recommendations. Find one at a local car dealer, as that will be the best comparison to what you are buying. IMO, visibility is is one of the LC's strongest points.

After you get your truck, come over and see/drive mine. It will give you an idea of what the "modification disease" can lead to :) Good luck with the purchase.
 
I also agree to the thought of going down to a car lot and test driving one. I'm just thinking that dealing with a nice MUD member might be an easier experience for her. At the moment, she might have to just throw caution to the wind and let me make the right decision.
 
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