I've heard it said that the 80 Series Land Cruiser was arguably the most capable and durable touring platform ever brought to the US market. This is perhaps supported by it ubiquity in those parts of the world with little to no infrastructure. After all, you don't see many Dodge Ramchargers or Ford Broncos in Outback Australia or the Gobi Desert.
Is this seemingly global preference for Toyota trucks, especially Land Cruisers and Hiluxes, due to innately superior toughness and build quality that help it stand up to harsh conditions? Or is it due to some other factor like Toyota being the world's largest auto manufacturer and hence being able to afford mass production of vehicles intended for less developed countries?
Simply looking at it at face value, something like a square body Blazer with a 14-bolt rear axle and beefy frame would seem to be comparable to the 80 Series, but perhaps I'm missing some x-factor with the venerable Cruiser. any insight would be appreciated. Thanks.
Is this seemingly global preference for Toyota trucks, especially Land Cruisers and Hiluxes, due to innately superior toughness and build quality that help it stand up to harsh conditions? Or is it due to some other factor like Toyota being the world's largest auto manufacturer and hence being able to afford mass production of vehicles intended for less developed countries?
Simply looking at it at face value, something like a square body Blazer with a 14-bolt rear axle and beefy frame would seem to be comparable to the 80 Series, but perhaps I'm missing some x-factor with the venerable Cruiser. any insight would be appreciated. Thanks.