I'm in the market for a new (to me) rig for overlanding. Much to the exhaustion of my spouse, I have cycled through a number of ways to go and have decided I'd like an LC100 or LX470. I have had Toyota's before and pretty much know what to expect there, but have never owned a Lexus. I've done a lot of research, generally, on both vehicles but now have a rather specific What would you do question.
I know these are highly reliable vehicles, but I am buying with the intention of putting money into repairs and upgrades for a lot of miles and adventures. We'll be adding a sleeping platform in the cabin for 2 adults and 2 dogs. Within a few hours I have a couple options:
2000 Land Cruiser. At a used dealer, says it came from Texas but they do not have service records. Body is a little banged up, but no rust, says its in good working order. 213k miles and asking $5800.
2003 LX470. Private seller, clearly babied and it and has extensive service records. Transmission has been replaced, AHS was restored to good working order by Toyota dealership. Few scuffs but overall seems to be in excellent shape. Definitely a mall crawler and has some 20" wheels that will need to go asap. 170k miles, asking $11.9k.
To me, both sound great but for different reasons which is why I am asking here! Obviously the LC leaves more room in the budget for modifications, but my only "needs" right away will be the sleeping platform/storage and a roof rack. Help me spend money!
Mulling in Minnesota,
Thanks in advance.
I know these are highly reliable vehicles, but I am buying with the intention of putting money into repairs and upgrades for a lot of miles and adventures. We'll be adding a sleeping platform in the cabin for 2 adults and 2 dogs. Within a few hours I have a couple options:
2000 Land Cruiser. At a used dealer, says it came from Texas but they do not have service records. Body is a little banged up, but no rust, says its in good working order. 213k miles and asking $5800.
2003 LX470. Private seller, clearly babied and it and has extensive service records. Transmission has been replaced, AHS was restored to good working order by Toyota dealership. Few scuffs but overall seems to be in excellent shape. Definitely a mall crawler and has some 20" wheels that will need to go asap. 170k miles, asking $11.9k.
To me, both sound great but for different reasons which is why I am asking here! Obviously the LC leaves more room in the budget for modifications, but my only "needs" right away will be the sleeping platform/storage and a roof rack. Help me spend money!
Mulling in Minnesota,
Thanks in advance.