Is is worth the extra cash to get the 03+ models!

[Turbo G]

Hi guys,
Anyone have opinions on whether or not to spend the $$$ to get an 03+ Cruiser vs. the 98-02 models. I'd really like rear air and side curtain aibags. The new interior is a little fancier too. But is this worth paying 35k or more when there are so many 2000-2001 models for 20k? Thanks in advance for your replies.


G

 

[turboale]

Main thing would be the new front diff in the 00+. Check the FAQ for all the differences in models on the SLEE website. That helped me narrow my searches to 00 and newer... as for the 03+ someone else is going to have to chime in, but a good place to start is the slee website which you can find in the FAQ section.

 

[hoser]

I believe all '00+ have rear AC. The side and curtain airbags were optional on the '03. The Front airbags were changed to dual stage.

The main advantages of the '03's are:
5 speed tranny
Revised interior/dash
Variable gear steering

Personally, if I could afford it, I'd get the '03+. In 3 years, the price between the two categories ('00-'02 vs '03) will be closer though. Sounds like safety is high on your priority list. In that case, I would recommend at least an '00+ because of the VSC and TRAC.

 

[EL_3grab]

from 98-02 the rear spline shaft is 32 ..

03+ is 30 ..

 

[Jim_Chow]

The 5spd auto tranny w/ gate shifter is reason enough to get the '03+. Plus it's the last year the Type IV ATF was used while still having the ATF dipstick. '04+ uses the world standard stuff that requires filling/checking the ATF from the hole in the side of the drain pan. The '03's are a lot more $$$ than '02's and pretty scarce in supply...once they hit 60K mi or more or the new LC debuts, you'll likely see more used ones.

 

[e9999]

indeed, the 5 speed is a marvel to behold!

my 80 trans feels like a wooden wagon compared to the 5 sp!

 

[SR.GRINGO]

I test drove a 2002 over Thanksgiving--wasn't all that impressed. The last couple of days I have been driving a 2006(non US spec so it does not sport the vvti motor)--I want one! We are looking for my wife and she really wanted the Sequoia--now after a couple days in the cruiser we got her straightened out I would go for a 03+ if I were you. Remember they aren't selling well right now--somebody out there will get rid of one for a decent price. One thing I have been wondering is a new version going to come out for 2007? From what I have read the new version is going to be influenced by the rest of the world rather than the U.S.

as stated above the 100 feels like a lexus luxury sedan compared to my 80--although every time I get to drive the 80 I have a huge smile

 

[SWUtah]

I got a 99 with 58K miles (AZ vehicle) and replaced all of the hoses, belts, timing belt, water pump, bearing and seals, bearing repack, and all new fluids and new tires. I have around $23-24K in it and it is good to go for many years. Now I looked at a 2003 in Missouri and it had 63K miles on it and I could of bought it for $36K back in August. 99% of the people can't tell my LC from a new one. I did not want the (trac system) I have that on my 2004 4runner SE V8 and wanted a LC with rear lockers. Also based on all of the maintance I just did for the 99 it will cost me less to maintain over the next several years then the 2003. Use the insights of the members of IHMUD and figure out what you want and what's important to you, then go for it.

 

[spressomon]

I think it depends how you are going to use it #1 and how easy it is for you to pay for a new/newer LC #2.

Since mine is used fairly heavily off-road it would be hard, unless I could write the big check without wincing (I can't) and then turn around and spend another $10-12K+ to get it decked for off-road use. So it's going to be an LC in the 5-6 year old range for me unless my ship comes in.

 

[ATLcrusher]

Definitely depends on intended use, but I can tell you that the 5sp tranny makes a world of difference (we have a GX with the 5sp, and tested newer Cruisers before buying) compared to the older version.

 

[SWUtah]

Definitely depends on intended use, but I can tell you that the 5sp tranny makes a world of difference (we have a GX with the 5sp, and tested newer Cruisers before buying) compared to the older version.

I think the old 4 speed is smoother then the new 5 speed. I have both and the 5 speed downshifts when you are going down hill at certain speeds. The 4 speed is smooth as silk.

 

[spressomon]

I think the old 4 speed is smoother then the new 5 speed. I have both and the 5 speed downshifts when you are going down hill at certain speeds. The 4 speed is smooth as silk.

Although I haven't driven the 5speed I have heard your comment before...

 

[e9999]

I think the old 4 speed is smoother then the new 5 speed. I have both and the 5 speed downshifts when you are going down hill at certain speeds. The 4 speed is smooth as silk.

My experience is directly contrary to that statement. The 5 is way smoother. I can't feel the shifts at all. Of course, in my case the 5 goes with a V8 and the 4 has the 6IL so the V8 sure helps there too.

As far as the 5 downshifting downhill, isn't there some sort of feature that does that automatically to provide engine braking - can't recall- ?

 

[ace10]

4sp in 80 versus 4sp in 100.... NO COMPARISON.

 

[tabraha]

I already can't feel the 4sp shift in our 100. Ignorance is bliss in my case I guess.

 

[ATLcrusher]

The downshifts do take some getting used to. But all-in-all, I just think the 5sp does a lot better job -and yes, there is an auto downshift feature. I'm also comparing a 90K LC (mileage) to a 14K GX. Of course everybody has their own opinion.

 

[SWUtah]

My experience is directly contrary to that statement. The 5 is way smoother. I can't feel the shifts at all. Of course, in my case the 5 goes with a V8 and the 4 has the 6IL so the V8 sure helps there too.

As far as the 5 downshifting downhill, isn't there some sort of feature that does that automatically to provide engine braking - can't recall- ?

Mine are both V8's, 99 LC and 2004 4runner. Both are smooth. The 4 speed in my 95 LC was not as smooth as these two are, don't know why. I think these are all good transmissions, the 4 speed is a proven performer over many years (since 1993 or 94 when they replaced the big bus transmission that was really durable) The 5 speed has been around since 03 in the US, and I bet it will be just as dependable.

 

[gaylonw]

We have a '90 62 series, a '03 and an '04 100 and I have to say that they are all good!!
I do like the 5 speed auto on the 100's; it helps you achieve higher fuel mpg. Also, the back up camera in the '04 is very handy in a parking garage or a tight spot.
I sold a 97 LC 80 to get my wifes '03 and she loves it- she has been in a LC since '93 and she only wants to drive a LC.

 

[SWUtah]

We have a '90 62 series, a '03 and an '04 100 and I have to say that they are all good!!
I do like the 5 speed auto on the 100's; it helps you achieve higher fuel mpg. Also, the back up camera in the '04 is very handy in a parking garage or a tight spot.
I sold a 97 LC 80 to get my wifes '03 and she loves it- she has been in a LC since '93 and she only wants to drive a LC.

The newer the LC the better if you have the $$$