Here’s what I think I’m going to like about the HDJ81:
First, I don’t have to worry about the head gasket issue that comes with the 1FZ. While I know the 1HD has its own quirks, the big-end bearings have already been replaced, it has extremely low miles, and based on all my research these past few weeks, I feel much more at ease.
Second, although diesel costs about a dollar more per gallon in my town, the 1HD is supposed to get almost twice the gas mileage. After filling up when I got it, I drove it around today—including some highway driving—for nearly 50 miles, filled up again, and got 20 mpg. I’m happy with those results.
Third, I drove it at 70 miles per hour on the interstate, and it seemed barely working—just cruising at about 2,300 RPM. That also gives me great peace of mind. It even felt like it had more to give when I accelerated to pass someone and reached 80 mph.
I like this color combination better. I’m more a fan of the gray than the blue. Though it's technically called blue, it looks grey, and I like it. I’m not a fan of the two-tone seats, but I do like the gray interior and may swap the seats out eventually.
One other thing: I did like that my FZJ80 was triple-locked, but the truth is, I don’t do heavy off-roading or rock crawling. Mostly, I stick to forestry roads and the occasional water crossing, so I don’t really need a triple-locked 80. If I ever feel like the HDJ81 isn’t enough, I may add a rear E-locker.
We’ll see how it goes. The right-hand drive doesn’t bother me, and so far, I think I like it better than the FZJ80.
