Buying a Land Cruiser 70 in Kenya

[portis]

Hello, I've just moved to Nairobi, Kenya and looking for a used 70 series Land Cruiser (mid-1990s for my price range, about $15 thousand USD). This will be my first Land Cruiser (hardtop) and I'm still learning about them, so apologies for my ignorance regarding some of the technical stuff.

I'm looking at both the Land Cruiser (such as HZJ75) and the Land Cruiser Prado (1996 and older) which is referred to the "box Prado" here.
I'm not in need of creature comforts, just looking for a solid, reliable truck for use in Nairobi and off-road trips as well. Is one better than the other? Or are they built for different purposes?
I will also choose between 3.0L diesel or petrol versions. Keeping in mind that the truck will be at least 15-years old, would one be better than the other? I've been told that the diesel 2.5L diesel historically has problems and to only get the 3L engine.
I prefer manual transmission, but a lot of the "box" Prados here were imported with automatic transmission.
Any guidance in pointing me in the right direction would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Mark_kzj78]

Greetings from next door in Uganda! I am lucky enough to own one of them and drive the other as a work vehicle. It all depends on what your usage is. The Prado is a 'light duty' landcruiser. It works well as a family car for driving around town and taking the odd camping trip/safaris etc. The hardtop is a heavy duty landcruiser built to go anywhere. The Prado has lots of electronics and the hardtop doesn't. Fuel wise the 3L (don't touch the 2.4L!) prado is going to be cheaper on fuel than say a hardtop with the 4.2L engine! Prado more comfortable and 'car like' - hardtop is basic and rugged.

Here in Uganda there are 3L manual Prado's though not as many as Auto's. I held out for a manual but the autos go good too. If you are mainly driving around in the Nairobery traffic then an auto might be nice. If your really lucky you may find one with a factory rear diff lock.

Hope that helps,

Regards
Mark