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Scoteye

Late Intro. What Nissan Patrol to buy?

Hey guys,
Whilst i joined up a little while ago things were up in the air regarding my 4x4 and now that it is sold i am on hunt for the next one.

I am looking at spending around 10K this will allow me to look at both GU Patrols and 100 series Cruisers. Mainly because i want the size as i require 7 seats min, inc 2 booster seats fitted. My 12 year old is already 5ft 3" and is growing noticeably taller what seems like almost daily. So the NH Pajero we had was too small for our needs.

I am leaning toward the GU just on what i have seen haven't driven either but this is where i would like some input.

I want a Diesel if possible, will do petrol if i have too. not fussed on manual/auto whatever...

What is the better model of each, Pro's con's and anything else that may help my decision. even alternatives. Open to all suggestions.

TIA


1mak

Hey Scoteye,

I just had a look what's on carsales for you (you're looking for a vehicle based in QLD?). Found this gem here (http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Nissan-Patrol-2000/SSE-AD-2983524/?Cr=0 in Springwood. A Nissan Patrol GU ST with a 4.5 Litre 6-cyl Diesel engine, relatively low kilometers (265,000km) manual for exactly 10,000 AUD.

Try to stay clear from the ZD30 (3.0 Litre diesel) engines as they are known to cause a lot of trouble in the years from 2000 to 2005.

Welcome on board :)
Scoteye OP

It is a nice one, however i have been informed that i require min 8 seat for extended family to come with on shorter outings leaving me with delica, landcruiser, or suburban or possibly landcruiser troop carrier if i can work out the legalities of small children in side facing seats. Funnily enough the delicas and suburbans are not totally ruled out. They will require a bit more modification but i will have something a bit more unique in the end.
HillsForThrills

G'day mate and welcome to the site... A while ago... :) hehe...

Regarding your seating situation, I'm pretty sure you'll find 8 seat LandCruisers are exactly the same as the Patrol seating, they just squeeze a third person in the very back row, which isn't really practical IMO... I could be wrong, so don't just take my word for it... Troopies are good, but having only 2 doors can be a hassle for rear occupants, and the height of them means handling can be compromised if not setup properly... A Delica or other such 4WD van would be a great option I think... I've seen a few, driven in a couple, and they are still very capable 4WD's with the added benefit of extra seating which is easily accessible... They also have more room in the rear as opposed to the 8 seat 'Cruisers...

Looks like you've got a few test drives coming up! Good luck with it...
1mak

I would pretty much like to see you buying a Delica and outfit it, putting bars and big tyres on. I have seen quite a few on Fraser and Moreton and I think they are more capable then most would think of. :)
HillsForThrills

Torsten, you'll hafta help me here again please mate... Putting up a pic of a 4WD van cruising round my town, just for inspiration

Forum Image
1mak

Done mate :) (just click on this little thumbnail once it's uploaded. Will think about a more convenient picture insert in the new downthunder version)

HillsForThrills

Cheers mate... yeah, I do click on it, but nothing happens still... Musn't be holding my tongue right! Hehe
Scoteye OP

Thanks guys, The cruiser seating arrangement is 2 > 3 > 3 but if it is to tight in the back, i will certainly give it a miss. Right now i want to see me in a Delica too. Such a great practical vehicle for my needs. Just have to find the right one, ideally a super or royal exceed but so hard to find at the moment. Also been looking at an importer who will hunt down what i want. Though i don't know if that will be cost effective yet.

1mak

Hey Scoteye, have you got a new ride yet?

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