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For a while I wanted to start a thread about importing a diesel 4x4 (or simply buying one already imported).
Not going into the details of California legalities, we have a different thread for that.
There are a few obvious choices here. Patrol Y60, 80 diesel, Prado diesel, 70 series (73 to be more specific).
In Chit-Chat section I might end up with pictures of wild life if I get this thread going, so I want to ask the opinion of the actual owners of Patrols. It's pretty obvious the Land Cruiser crowd will always say "get a Toyota", so there is not much to expect from them in an objective manner.
Most of you here have or have had both Nissan and Toyota.
Why should I not get a Patrol, again Y60 - 2 door preferably?
I know the engine choice leaves a lot to desire. 2.8 has no power and the 4.2 lacks a blower - has no power.
But lots a people added turbos to their 4.2 engines.
Other diesel engine swaps are available and plentiful.
I already have a FJ80, but looking more at a daily driver type. Been driving a powerful diesel for 7 years already. I know the Patrol will never come close in terms of power to what I am used to right now, but it's also a big car and by no means a sports car.
I am aware of the BMW diesel engine swaps in EU and that is one thing to consider too. I already have a donor.
Parts availability is probably on everyone's radar here in US, but the internet can solve that problem quickly. Yes there will be shipping charges, I know.
I'd be all over a shorty if it had the 4.2. No, not a powerhouse, but strong enough in my LWB.
The last time I was in the US, I went from my Y60 to an FZJ80 for 8 months and then back to my Patrol. I couldn't say which one I liked better, honestly. My girls said the back seat had better leg room in the Land Cruiser, but that would be a different animal in an SWB.
One of my kids will get her own car soon, the other one won't mind where he sits because he sleeps in the car anyway.
There is one SWB 2.8td with low miles, very clean looking on eBay for $20k.
I know they can be had in EU for half of that price same condition. You pay for the convenience factor.
I don't have to fly there, stay at a hotel, ship the car myself, register it in FL, where I would have to fly again and take possession of upon delivery, etc.
$3 - $4k is the price for a high mileage one in EU, early 90's models. I am sure they would require some work.