lllateralus said:
In all honesty, (Im a fair and honest guy!) I didnt know that there was so much enthusiasm for those large older cruisers.
They sure look like they can 'hold their own' off road, to say the least.
If anyone can provide me with a link that explains in detail the history of the recent land cruisers, (80+) I would appreciate that. I'd like to read about the differences in the 80, 100, the years they were available etc.
lllateralus,
For more information on the later "wagons" (FJ80, FZJ80, UZJ100) you can read the "Newbie guides" on the Slee off-road web site. There is a link in the 80-Section FAQ. You are also encouraged to read the 80-section threads that interest you, like the "wheeling pictures" thread someone else posted.
We often get new owners with the same enthusiasm about the 80s as you have with your FJC. They are all Toyotas and they are all good vehicles; each with their unique features that make one better than the other
when comparing like features.
I appreciate your willingness to learn the history of the Land Cruisers, foreign models and US versions, as that is an important part of the heritage of the FJ Cruiser. As time goes on, the FJC very likely will be embraced as a true "Land Cruiser" (whatever that means.)
The widespread acceptance of the FJC by the Cruiser community will largely be up to you and your peers as you guys begin to learn the mechanical details and the vehicle capabilties. The FJC will evolve as you begin to build them for a specific purpose. Toyota will (hopefully) continue to improve the FJC and give it more capabilities. The base platform is outstanding; Prado & 4Runner are well respected around the world as is the Toyota name. The FJC has a unique "look" that some hate but most love; though few are ambivilant about the appearance.
As you get more and more into this hobby you will appreciate the earlier 40 Series for what they are. To you they may look old-fashioned and incapable. Truth be known, a
stock FJ40 is not much fun to drive and they wouldn't do well on the trails. Add a 3" lift and some off-road tyres (2 mods

) and a "stock" FJ40 does very well on the trails.
Most of the 40 Series enthusiasts here on 'Mud have heavily modified their rigs and your "2 mods" FJC and my heavily modded 80-Series are no match on the trails. To begin with, we are both too wide and we are typically reluctant to accept body damage. A built 40 Series is an awesome off-road vehicle. Their owners are rightfully proud of the Land Cruiser heritage and some feel the 40 was the "last" Land Cruiser. IMHO, those of us that are FJC enthusiasts need to be patient, contrite, and earn their respect. It will happen.
... enough rambling for now ...
-B-