tlc_100.htm
Number of hits on this page:
About a new Land Cruiser Wagon in 1998
From: Willem-Jan Markerink
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Date sent: Tue, 18 Feb 1997 21:43:06 +0000
Subject: The Land Cruiser Gods have spoken....
Copies to: LandCruisers@tlca.org
Priority: normal
Send reply to: Willem-Jan Markerink
....a new Cruiser Wagon will see the light of dawn in the year 1998.
According to the German "Gelaendewagen Magazin", a new Cruiser Wagon
will be launched, starting in early 1998 for Japan. Europe will follow in
summer 1998.
Based on the current 4.2L 1HD-FT, an improved 190hp version will be
implanted, complying with the most severe emission laws (crap)
worldwide.
To satisfy US customers, an additional 4.5L V8 will be launched, with
an estimated 250hp.
Btw, also read that the tow rating of German 80's with air assist
brakes is 4500kg....almost 10,000lbs....8-))
Swiss DOT allows 6500kg....still haven't tracked down the background
of this insanity....must be the weight of truck *and* trailer
together....
PS: I found the 24V/160W IPF bulbs again! Finally! Still being made!
Not even a price increase after all these years! Yahoo!!!!
--
Bye,
_/ _/ _/_/_/_/_/ _/_/_/_/_/
_/ _/ _/ _/ _/ _/ _/
_/ _/ illem _/ _/ an _/ _/ _/ arkerink
_/_/_/
The desire to understand
is sometimes far less intelligent than
the inability to understand
[note: 'a-one' & 'en-el'!]
Date sent: Sat, 19 Apr 1997 11:41:39 +1000
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
From: Christopher Nicholls
Subject: 100 Series Cruiser announced! Honest!
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
No, no, no... this is not an April Fools joke. Well at least I don't think
it is... Maybe they got a hold of my e-mail...
In the latest (May'97) Overlander 4WD Magazine it announces the following news:
"Toyota's new 100 Series 'Cruiser, the replacement for the 80 Series, will
hit the showrooms only months behind the new Nissan Patrol which is due
early 1998....Leading the rumored changes for the 100 Series is the adoption
of independent front suspension complete with reduction hubs much like the
system employed on the MegaCruiser and the newly released Dyna 4WD
truck...The new LandCruiser 100 Series will have more interior room and a
new smooth exterior which does away with the existing models guard
extensions, but not any bigger overall than the 80 Series....ladder-frame
chassis, live coil spring rear suspension, and full-time 4WD. Engine options
have not been confirmed but there is a rumour that one of the new "Cruiser
powerplants will be a petrol V8. The new model will be ready for sale by
mid-1998....".
So... there you have it. I recommend you get Overlander for more details.
By the way, in the same edition is a preview of the all-new Lexus SLV4WD
which is based upon the Lexus ES300 monocoque platform. It looks a bit like
an oversize RAV4 ad is described as a "good road vehicle, that can also cope
with minor off-road exploits..."
See ya!
Chris
http://www.toyota.co.jp/index2.html
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Christopher A Nicholls
Softway - Evolutionary software, revolutionary results...
_____________________________________________
Canberra Branch Office:
Advance Bank Centre, 60 Marcus Clarke Steet
Canberra City ACT 2602
Ph: +61 6 2434834 E-mail: chrisn@softway.com.au
Fax: +61 6 243 4848 WWW: http://www.softway.com.au
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"...one of these days they're going to build an e-mail package that answers
your e-mail for you..." Anon.
To: LandCruisers@tlca.org
Send reply to: LandCruisers@tlca.org
Date sent: Wed, 30 Apr 1997 12:19:34 -0500
From: Tim Bridges <76fj40@cypherweb.com>
Subject: LC Made in USA? (was Re: Bandeirante - last word ?)
>Just to make something clear... The Toyotas made in Brazil are made by
Toyota do
>Brasil, a wholly-owned subsiduary of Toyota. They are perhaps not made to
the
>same specifications as those made in Japan but they are Toyotas. The older
>models (mine) used a Mercedes engine, taken from a much-used truck model made
>here by Mercedes, as Toyota figured that with the small number of sales they
>would make here, it wouldn't be worth their while building an engine plant
>here. They did get around to buying a large plot of land in the city of Sao
>paulo to build such a plant but it wasn't to be. I BELIEVE that the current
>engine comes from Argentina, but I'm not certain.
>
>It's not a Japanese Cruiser but nor is it so far off !!
>
>
Read in the local paper, Sunday before last, that the new Toyota Truck
plant in Princeton, Indiana (~100 miles from here) is going to be making
the Toyota Land Cruiser and the Lexus whatever. The plant was originally
designed to make T100 pickups and is supposed to go on line at the end of
this year. This new announcement about LCs said they would start being
built in 1998. So "It's not a Japanese Cruiser but nor is it so far off
!!" could be even more relevant.
PS, anyone willing to predict what will happen to sticker and resale prices
for T100s after they are built in Indiana? No more 25% import tariff, but
a big capital investment??? Economists out there??
-- tim bridges
76fj40@cypherweb.com
TLCA #2543
'76 FJ40, Saginaw PS, ARB Rear, 33X12.50s, Weber 38MM, OOC Distrubutor, Al tub
Date sent: Fri, 16 May 1997 18:12:06 +1000
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
From: Christopher Nicholls
Subject: TLC 100 Series news...(honest!)
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
...Latest from the press...
June's Overlander 4WD says that the 100 Series is close to being released in
Japan for the domestic market. It goes on to say that the new model will be
released in August to coincide with the new Nissan Patrol.
Further, the 100 Series will be released as a Lexus (!!!). It will replace
the 80 Series and will offer air suspension in the luxury models. A petrol
V8 engine is also likely for luxury models.
Sounds like Toyota are trying to meet head-on with Range Rover.
The 100 Series is rumoured to have similar dimensions to the 80 Series.
ETA in Australia? Mid 1998.
This is your reporter signing off....
Regards
Chris
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Christopher A Nicholls
Softway - Evolutionary software, revolutionary results...
_____________________________________________
Canberra Branch Office:
Advance Bank Centre, 60 Marcus Clarke Steet
Canberra City ACT 2602
Ph: +61 6 2434834 E-mail: chrisn@softway.com.au
Fax: +61 6 243 4848 WWW: http://www.softway.com.au
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"...one of these days, I'm going to..." Anon.
From: Willem-Jan Markerink
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Date sent: Mon, 19 May 1997 23:15:12 +0000
Subject: Re: TLC 100 Series news...(honest!)
Priority: normal
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
On 19 May 97 at 13:51, Andrew Roane wrote:
> Guys,
>
> I hate to say it but for the USA the V8 is going to need at least 250 hp
> and around 300 300 lbs of torque.
>
> I think TLC 100 Series is going to slam dunk the current Range Rover 4.0
> or 4.6 HSE.
>
> Here is the hard question, Will there still be a Landcruiser or will it
> just be a Lexus LX550 (New name for bigger engine)? I would think
> Toyota would have enough since not to get rid of the Landcruiser. Maybe
> the Toyota Landcruiser will be a 100 Series Base Model.
Of course there will still be a basic 5 door Land Cruiser, you guys
in the US only see a fraction of the Land Cruiser models. There is no
way that Toyota will dump the entire workhorse series (Standard J7 &
J8), nor make a clean cut between those work horses and high grade
model 80's. It would be foolish to throw away this entire structure
of shared components and parts (engines, axles and whatnot), and
only offer such high grade models in a completely different model.
It would also make very little sense to offer a model like the
recent Lexus V6 4x4 and launch a wimpy Land Cruiser derivate slightly
above it. And it still has a name to defend....no marketing
department in its right mind would want to compromise that....they
can get away with a Prado Land Cruiser, but they can't get away with
not offering a serious top of the line model, lesser than its
competition. And you only need to look at Toyota efforts in the Dakar
and Peking rally to see that they are serious. The upcoming Dakar will
favor stock vehicles and minimum maintenance, there is no way they
will leave such marketing Walhalla to the competition in any class.
One more pondering: could it be that this geared hub IFS rumour is a
desperate attempt from Toyota to finally get a reliable front
suspension, without notorious leaks and mechanical break downs?
They can't just keep cranking up output with bigger diesels and
gasolines, without radically improving the front drive train.
Perhaps the basic models will get a better solid front axle, knowing
that for the most cushy ride you should order the IFS, hence not
complain about vibrations and noise.
And also don't forget the rumour that Toyota might start a Cruiser
factory in the US, thereby not being restricted by import
regulations. Perhaps only that model is different, with the core line
still being produced in Japan.
PS: I have taken the liberty to collect some of our rumours and press
reports for a TLC 100-series chapter on my homepage.
So keep'm coming!....:-))
--
Bye,
Willem-Jan Markerink
The desire to understand
is sometimes far less intelligent than
the inability to understand
[note: 'a-one' & 'en-el'!]
From: "Roger Bettoni"
To: <80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com>
Subject: 100 series TLC
Date sent: Tue, 20 May 1997 09:14:43 +0800
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Just reading through June edition of "Overlander" magazine and they say
that the 100 series is "due for release in Japan in August, about the same
time that Nissan is releasing its new Patrol". "It is believed the new 100
series will be released as a Lexus"..."the new model will have air
suspension in luxury models"...."a petrol V8 is on the cards"......"to be
fitted to luxury models only"...."pre-production models sighted in Japan
are of similar dimensions to the 80 series"......."but obviously Toyota has
enough confidence in its new 100 series platform to offer it as a Lexus in
its domestic market". "Meanwhile Toyota Australia is working hard to be the
first in the queue to get the new 100 series, with a release expected no
later than mid 1998. The reason? To avoid losing sales to Nissan's all-new
Patrol, due here in February 1998".
Sounds like the competition could be very fierce in the near future.
Interesting to note that the new 100 series is ONLY being marketed as a
Lexus in Japan.
-Roger Bettoni '93 TD80 'THE TRACTOR'
"simple is often better"
roger@gold.iap.net.au
Date sent: Wed, 21 May 1997 12:30:32 +1000
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
From: Christopher Nicholls
Subject: Autonews 5L V12?
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
It's a bit old, but how would this fit into the TLC 100 I wonder?
"Toyota's Secret Weapon Revealed
There is an very interesting news that Toyota is developing a high-tech
5.0L V12 engine under its stable. The news claims that the engine will
be first used in a car named Century which will be launched in Japan in
spring 1997. (By Dubby from Truck Magazine)
Comment:"A very, very interesting news. I believe many viewers may not be
very familiar with this car and ask why Toyota put the V12 engine in that
car first instead of Lexus. As I know that car Century is only sold in
Japan and it is used for Japanese Royal family or high status people or
family.
The current version has been in the market for almost 25 years. The one
which will be launched in this fall is actually the second version of that
model after all this time. I believe that car will compete with Nissan
President in Japan (another Japan-only vehicle which share its platform
with Infiniti Q45 but with more luxury features, so-call Rolls Royce in
Japan!) We'll see how that 5.0L V12 work since Japan Government sets up
law that no car can has power output more than 280bhp!!!" "
Source: http://apollo.gmi.edu/~cheu9783/News.html
Regards
Chris
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Christopher A Nicholls
Softway - Evolutionary software, revolutionary results...
_____________________________________________
Canberra Branch Office:
Advance Bank Centre, 60 Marcus Clarke Street
Canberra City ACT 2602
Ph: +61 6 2434834 E-mail: chrisn@softway.com.au
Fax: +61 6 243 4848 WWW: http://www.softway.com.au
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"...one of these days, I'm going to..." Anon.
Date sent: Tue, 10 Jun 1997 08:33:47 -0400
From: Andrew Roane
Organization: Tekelec, Inc.
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Subject: [80_Series] New Cruiser Anounced in Latest Autoweek
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Guys,
I got the newest Autoweek magazine last weekend and it had the
announcement for the new Landcruiser. They said it would make it's
debut at the Tokyo Auto show in October. The vehicle will be available
in March 1998 in the USA as the Lexus LX470, because of the 4.7 Litre
V8. The Landcruiser will still be available with the inline six and the
V8. Autoweek was complaining because there were no spy photos.
On a different note. I talked to guy about the new Range Rover coming
out in 1999. He has Range Rover. He say the Range Rover at the factory
in Soihill. He said the '99 Range Rover will be better than anything
Toyota brings out by a long shot. Of course I asked him in what
respects and he said he could not discuss it.
Regards,
Andrew
Date sent: Mon, 16 Jun 1997 15:15:38 +1000
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
From: Christopher Nicholls
Subject: [80_Series] News... 100 Series/80 Series sales.
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
According to July's Overlander Magazine, Toyota are releasing the new 100
Series at the Tokyo Motor Show in October and it will go on sale in March
1998 in Australia.
Quote:".. The new 'Cruiser is rumoured to run a V8 petrol engine and a fresh
body style without the blistered guards of the current model..." Still no pics.
Also in the news... 789 TLC80's were sold in Australia in April - YTD: 3,623
sold in Australia.(Source VFACTS)
CN
Date sent: Tue, 17 Jun 1997 10:25:34 -0700
From: "John T. Lannom"
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Subject: [80_Series] Re: New V8 Engines
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
I know there has been lots of talk about the LC getting a V8 engine. I
just saw this information in the june 9-15 AutoWeek mag (they usally
report the facts)last night. I have been on vacation to the Outer
Banks, NC for the last 10 days in my new LX-450. I get home to find
this information. Since I have been off-line this may have already been
posted. If so, blow it off. I'm feeling kind of low about now.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Now you can have a V8
Both the Lexus LX-450 replacement and the TLC will be powered by an
all-new 4.7 liter V8 when they debut in October at the Tokyo Motor
Show. With the bigger engine comes a higher model designation, and thus
the LX-450 replacement will be called the LX-470. The top-line Lexus
will distance itself further from the LC in styling, and will offer a
more luxurious exterior and softer ride tha the LC version.
The LX-470 will go on sale in the US next March, followed shortly
thereafter by the new Camry-based RX-300 SUV.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cheers
John T. Lannom
E-Mail: jtlannom@one.net *
From: georgec@melbourne.sgi.com (George Couyant)
Subject: Re: [80_Series] anyone posted the tlc 100 spy pic yet?
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Date: Fri, 11 Jul 1997 08:14:58 +1000 (EST)
Reply-to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
> Looks like a (PTOOEY!) Suburban! Will stick with the 80-series unless
> they prove it can climb walls...
Trust me, it looks heaps better in the flesh. That's a really bad photo.
The covering has altered the shape and made it look very slab sided.
Thanks for the scan John, I'll put it on the web page later today.
Cheers
gc
Date sent: Sun, 24 Aug 1997 01:33:08 +1000
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
From: Christopher Nicholls
Subject: [80_Series] Latest 100 Series news...
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Folks
The latest info from the September 1997 issue of Overlander 4WD Magazine is
summarised as follows:
* It will go on sale in Japan late this year.
* More raked windscreen with bonded glass rather than rubber seals.
* New door handles
* Larger headlights with wrap-around indicators
* New raked front, similar rear with split tailgate, but reversing
lights incorporated into bottom tailgate half
* will continue with all standard 80 series engines.
* coil spring, live-axel suspension
* Lexus variant will have 4.5l V8 - 170kW power.
* Lexus will also have a new 147kW 4.2l TD in-line 6 - 24v twin cam with
intercooler (!)
Also in this issue:
An owner's report of a standard 80 Series.
A small review of the new Kaymar replacement rear bar for the 80 Series.
Looks very neat - $AUD1,360, wheel carrier to suit - $AUD455, jerry can
holder - $AUD420; fitting costs - $AUD295. Includes a 3,500kg tow facility
and trailer plugs.
Regards
Chris
From: Rod Andow
To: "'80_series'" <80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com>
Subject: [80] 100 series
Date sent: Thu, 23 Oct 1997 21:58:42 -0700
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
According to a friend at Toyota USA the first 4 frames of Willem-Jan's webpage
(http://www.a1.nl/phomepag/markerink/main_4x4.htm) depict the new Lexus LX450 while
the remaining picture are dressed up versions of Land Cruiser.
Rod
From: "Simon Walsh"
To: "80 Series Owners Online" <80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com>
Subject: [80] NEW 100 SERIES
Date sent: Thu, 23 Oct 1997 16:14:30 +1000
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
If anyone in Melbourne is interested there was a photo of the 100 Series in
this mornings AGE, along with a little spiel.
to quote sections;
- The so called Grand Cruiser will be sold here as a Lexus LX470, replacing
the Sahara.
- major technical overhaul - New engines and radical suspension changes
which leapfrog the Range Rover.
- There is also a device called the skyhook! (no idea about that one????)
- the new 4.7 litre V8 is reserved for the Lexus - if only for a few months.
- V8 is all alloy with stump pulling torque
- Other engines will be the 4.5 petrol and 4.2 turbo charged diesel six,
until the V8 is cleared by the marketing department until next spring for
the Landcruiser.
- Dimensions - These have grown beyond even the behemoth measurements of the
current 80 series.
- It's heavier, wider, longer and taller.
- Grand Cruiser, features double wishbone front suspension, with a four link
system in the rear.
- Lexus will have computerized active height control, which allows the car
to kneel like a circus elephant ....(ala rangie) Driver can alter height
through a range of 100 mm.
- When low selected it will raise 50mm from standard.
- Computerised semi active suspension that controls body roll, stops the
nose diving under braking and the tail squating under acceleration.
- Toyota variant will not get computerised suspension of Lexus.
Cheers,
Simon.
________________________________________
Tel: +613 9817 4401 Mobile: 0419 337 460
http://www.ozemail.com.au/~sjwalsh/
S 37 48.935 E 145 03.556 / UTC +10
________________________________________
Date sent: Tue, 28 Oct 1997 22:47:57 +0900
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
From: Ian McAllister
Subject: [80] Tokyo Motorshow Report
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Major disappointment. The 100 Series, yes the same ugly one you've seen
photos of, was up on stage and out of reach. A sign stated that it had a
4.7 litre V-8 but that's about it. I leaned over the railing and took some
pictures of the suspension. I'll try to scan them later this week and send
pics to George, Willem, John,? The brochure states that it does indeed have
AHC (Active Height Control) like the Range Rover, and can move through a
100mm range. The mysterious Skyook means TEMS Skyhook suspension system. I
presume that TEMS stands for Toyota Electro-Mechanical Suspension or some
such thing. My friend has it on his Mark II sedan. You can push the button
next to the e-brake from normal to sport. Presumably the sport setting
gives the vehicle a little stiffer suspension and normal gives a softer
on-road ride. My friend has yet to take his Mark II off-road to see how it
works and I'm not holding my breath.
All in all the Toyota area was a major disappointment; all show, no
substance. By contrast, Porsche had a 911 engine sitting there for everyone
to touch and you could sit in many of the vehicles, including all of the
Rovers. A Discovery and Defender were parked on a ramp with about a 60
degree slope. By contrast, the Toyota display featured two 'ladies' change
from rugged outdoor gear to evening gowns and back again, sitting inside
the 'Grand Cruiser' and waving between each costume change.
Oh well, this is Japan.
Cheers,
Ian
Ian McAllister
1-14-5-205 Sakura
Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156
Japan
From: Brian.Sommerville@bankerstrust.com.au
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Date sent: Wed, 28 Jan 1998 10:00:27 +1100
Subject: [80] 100 Series article from SMH
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
From the Sunday press here in Sydney:
The best-selling four-wheel drive in Australia
is also the biggest. Phil Scot reports
how Toyota's LandCruiser is expanding.
The chief engineer for
Toyota's LandCruiser has
a sense of humour about
his new four-wheel-
drive wagon, released
in Tokyo last Tuesday.
Takeo Kondo grins
when - he says the
LandCruiser 100 Series,
bound for Australia in March, is
no eco-car.
The already imposing wagon
has grown still larger, whacked on
a hefty weight increase of 150-200
kilograms and gained a new V8 engine.
As much a favourite of suburban
mums as off-road- enthusiasts, the new
LandCruiser tips the scales at around 2.5 -
tonnes, is significantly longer and wider
and offers an option 4.7-litre, Lexus-
derived V8 engine -- for those with
around $80,000 to spare.
The V8 model will be the only
LandCruiser 100 sold in Australia witb
the newly developed independent front
suspension, said to offer superior ride
comfort and handling.
Less expensive six-cylinder models
will use an updated version of Toyota's
rigid front axle, a-proven system in
heavy duty applications but one lacking
passenger car smoothness. In research
groups among heavy duty customers,
fitment of the more car-like double-
wishbone front suspension was seen as
evidence that the Cruiser was going soft,
particularly in Queensland.
The 100 Series, says its chief
engineer, is heavier because it has to be.
More sound-proofing, big improve-
ments in crash protection and a larger,
wider cabin with removable second and
third-row seats have all packed on the
kilograms.
The addition of a mightily powerful
170kW V8, he says, will mean
customers are going to drive the Cruiser
faster over rough terrain and still expect
it not to break. The result: heavier duty
components from stem to stern ... and
more kilogram.
Standard engines for most of the
Australian vehicles will be updated ver-
sions of the six-cylinder petrol and
diesel power plants. The turbo-diesel
has been deleted from initial shipments
but may be back later in the year.
The 4.5-litre petrol six fitted to the
majority of 80 Series Land Cruisers.
Continues in the 100 Series with refinements
To smoothness, noise suppression:
and efficiency. It has gained slightly
more power and torque, and fuel
consumption is marginally improved in
Japanese government testing
The same tests reveal the new V8
uses less fuel than the in-line six. The
V8 is a reworked and retuned version of
the original 1990 Lexus LS 400 engine,
an outstandingly smooth power plant.
Locally, an arm-wrestle between
Toyota and Lexus means final
prices and specifications
are still to be finalised. Lexus will sell its
own version of the LandCruiser, badged
as the LX 470 and carrying a distinc-
tively different nose from April. Likely
price: just under A$100,000
The final word from chief engineer
Kondo "I am regretting the LandCruiser
became heavier not lighter, but it meets
the customer's expectation."
It sure does.
Articale from Houston Chronicle Wednesday February 4, 1998
Land Cruiser rugged, refined
By TIM SPELL
Cars and Trucks Editor
ANZA Borrego, Calif. -- Driving Toyota's new-generation 1998
Land Cruiser in the rugged desert terrain of California's Anza
Borrego State Park was a reminder that the luxury sport-ute
comes from a long line of grind-'em-out 4x4s.
Land Cruiser first appeared during the Korean conflict in the
form of a Toyota BJ. It was shipped to the U.S. Army in 1950 as
a vehicle tailor made to handle Korea's hostile weather and
terrain conditions. When Toyota's BJ went civilian in 1954, it
was marketed to Japanese consumers as the Land Cruiser.
It went on sale in the United States in 1958, where for more
than two decades it was more rugged and functional than
luxurious. When the personal-use sport-utility craze ignited in
the mid-1980s, Toyota joined in and upgraded its Land Cruiser
with more comfort and convenience features. This year, Land
Cruiser is celebrating its 40th anniversary in the United
States with a redesigned model offering a big boost in pamper
and power.
"This fifth-generation UZJ100 advances the Land Cruiser further
than any previous new-generation model," said Alan DeCarr, vice
president of sales and marketing team, Toyota Sales U.S.A.
The big news is that Land Cruiser will be fitted with a V-8
engine, which adds credibility to the company's claims that
Land Cruiser is the "king of four-wheel drive."
Based on the engine used in the Lexus LS 400, this new
4.7-liter 36-valve dual-overhead-cam V-8 is significant because
it's the first time that eight cylinders have beat under the
hood of a Toyota Division product. In the spring of 1999, this
same V-8 will power Toyota's next-generation full-size pickup,
renamed T150.
The 4,834-pound, full-time all-wheel-drive Land Cruiser
benefits from 230 horsepower and 320 foot-pounds of torque,
which top the 1997 model's 4.5-liter inline six-cylinder by 18
horsepower and 45 foot-pounds of torque. It was this torque
boost, needed to launch the big sport-ute and provide spirited
around-town driving, which was especially noticeable. Mated to
the powerplant is a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic
transmission.
Another area where Land Cruiser gets beefed up is in its
chassis, to improve noise, vibration and harshness, durability,
ride and handling, and crash worthiness.
"The Land Cruiser chassis is not entirely new from the ground
up, but it's darn close," said DeCarr. "And I would be
hard-pressed to identify any next-generation vehicle that
Toyota has launched in recent years that has undergone such
extensive and effective chassis refinement as the 1998 Land
Cruiser."
While the new structure has an appearance similar to the 1997
chassis, there's a marked difference in strength. The 1997
chassis was reinforced with six cross members and the 1998 has
nine, firmly set with a flared flange joints to enhance
rigidity.
Complementing these chassis upgrades is an independent IFS
front suspension, replacing a rigid axle. Engineers tout that
the suspension benefits from an industry-exclusive "floating
member" that reduces vibrations transmitted from the tires.
Along with improving the ride on normal road surfaces, the
suspension boasts greater wheel articulation for increased
off-road efficiency and comfort. As experienced while crawling
up a bolder-infested hill at Anza Borrego State Park, Land
Cruiser's long wheel stroke coped well with extreme dips and
rises that would have presented a challenge to any 4x4.
The advantage to life aboard a Land Cruiser is that while
you're surrounded by a hostile environment, the situation is
serene inside the cabin.
Along with the stiffer frame and more refined suspension, noise
and vibration are quelled by cab mount cushions and liberal use
of insulation materials strategically placed in areas such as
pillars, door jams and roof rails.
Passenger comfort and convenience are enhanced with the
seven-passenger cabin expanded in length and width. Stepping in
and out of the cabin is made easier with enlarged door
openings, and beefing up the size of the luggage area opening
improves cargo loading and unloading. A solid loading surface
is provided when second- and third-row seats are folded down.
Leg-stretching room in front and middle seats has been boosted
with a near 2-inch gain in front seat travel and almost 3
inches of leg room added to the second seat. Front seats are
power adjustable and offer a comfort level comparable to most
luxury sedans. Cloth is standard and leather interior an
option. Amenities such as power windows, door locks, cruise
control and heated outside mirrors are standard.
The instrument panel is redesigned, offering more
sophistication and functionality. Plugged into the dash is a
standard 3-in-1 sound system, offering AM/FM, cassette and CD.
Despite its long list of upgrades, there will be no problem
immediately recognizing the 1998 version as a Land Cruiser. Its
basic form is similar to the 1997 model, but more aggressive.
Front and rear fenders get an added dose of macho with imposing
bulges versus more traditional wheel-opening flares. The hood
is raised in the center and projects to meet a new-look grille,
sandwiched by enlarged wraparound headlamps. Bold designing
also is the story at the rear, with wraparound taillamps that
double the size of those on the 1997 model.
The 1998 Land Cruiser lives up to its military heritage as a
functional, rough-and-ready vehicle, but even a coat of
camouflage can't hide the fact that comfort, convenience and
luxury are among its biggest selling points.
TYPE: 4-door luxury sport-utility
SEATING: 7
LENGTH: 192.5 in.
WHEELBASE: 112.2 in.
ENGINE: 4.7-liter 36-valve DOHC
V-8
HP: 230 @ 4,800 rpm
TORQUE: 320 @ 3,400 rpm
TRANSMISSION: 4-speed automatic
DRIVE: Full-time AWD
EST. FUEL ECONOMY: 14 city/
16 hwy.
BRAKES: 4-wheel disc, ABS
WHEELS: 16-in. aluminum alloy
TIRES: P275/70R-16
AIRBAGS: Dual frontal
EST. BASE PRICE: Low- to mid-$40,000s
To: LandCruisers@tlca.org
Send reply to: LandCruisers@tlca.org
Date sent: Tue, 10 Feb 1998 15:09:00 -0800
From: "James Hassi"
Subject: New Cruiser Press Release
Just for the amusement of the list, I am posting Toyota's press release
on the new Cruiser (yuck did I just say that)
******OF SPECIAL INTEREST****** CHeck out the slope dependant features of
the ABS - Even tho this is a luxo mobile, they have addressed a real
world complaint of off-roaders.
SNIP:
All-New V8-Powered Toyota Land Cruiser Makes World Premiere at
1998 Chicago Auto Show
CHICAGO, Feb. 4 /PRNewswire/ -- The all-new 1998 Toyota Land Cruiser
today made its world premiere at the 90th
annual Chicago auto show. A staple in Toyota's American lineup for forty
years, the 1998 Land Cruiser powers its way to
the top of the sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment with a blend of all-
around performance, engineering refinement, technical
innovation and passenger comfort and convenience unsurpassed in the
industry.
It is larger, heavier, structurally more solid and substantially more
powerful than its predecessor. Yet it delivers improved fuel
efficiency, lower emissions and considerably quicker, more responsive
acceleration. It is longer and wider, with slicker
aerodynamics and major improvements in towing and cargo capacities.
``It drives smoother and significantly quieter, steers more precisely,
and handles the back roads with more balance,'' said
Dave Illingworth, senior vice president and general manager, Toyota
Division, Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc.
``Yet it is most at home pounding over washboard trails, yanking itself
out of deep mud bogs, or clawing its way up
crumbling granite paths. In short, the Land Cruiser packs the credentials
befitting the title 'King of Four-Wheel Drive.'''
The '98 Land Cruiser is the fifth-generation in the series and the first
all-new Cruiser since 1991. It is also the first Toyota
vehicle of any type to be powered by a V8 engine.
POWERTRAIN
The all-new 4.7-liter 32-valve DOHC V8 is based on the engine used in the
Lexus LS 400 series. The new engine was
designed to provide a level of performance superior to any competitor in
the luxury SUV class, especially in the area of low-
and mid-range torque. Additionally it was designed to deliver a new level
of quietness of operation and best-in-class fuel
efficiency, while meeting California's strict Low Emission Vehicle (LEV)
standard. This was accomplished while maintaining
the high reliability and durability that was synonymous with the Land
Cruiser heritage.
The engine produces 230 horsepower, 18 more than last year's inline six-
cylinder, and 320 pounds-feet of torque, an
improvement of 45 over last year. It will power the Cruiser from
zero-to-60 in 9.9 seconds, an improvement of more than
two seconds in preliminary testing. It also will be certified as a low
emission vehicle (LEV) by the California Air Resources
Board, with a significant reduction in hydrocarbons.
Finally, preliminary fuel economy estimates for the new V8 are 14 city
and 16 highway. These numbers are an improvement
from last year; a significant achievement, considering the extent of
chassis reinforcement and resultant increase in overall
weight.
CHASSIS, SUSPENSION AND BODY
As significant as is the addition of the new V8 engine in establishing
the Land Cruiser's benchmark credentials, the extensive
re-design of the vehicle's chassis is even more important. The initial
development goal was to improve frame strength and
reduce flex to a level superior to that of the Range Rover. Engineers not
only achieved this goal, but actually improved
overall structural rigidity by 50 percent over the previous generation,
to a level that is second to none among all SUVs.
The benefits enjoyed by building such a solid platform are numerous. They
include:
A significant reduction in overall NVH
Increased crash worthiness
Improved ride comfort, both on and off-road
Improved impact isolation
Improved durability
Improved precision of movement of suspension and steering components
In order to improve both highway and off-road ride quality, Land Cruiser
features an independent torsion bar front
suspension. An independent front suspension (IFS) as large as the
Cruiser's requires the ability to move with much more
precision than a typical solid beam axle. This precision was provided by
the significant strengthening and reduced flex of the
new chassis design.
The Cruiser's IFS provides a huge improvement in highway ride comfort,
handling, steering precision and NVH reduction ...
over the previous generation's rigid axle.
Not only does this new IFS provide exceptional refinement to the
Cruiser's highway performance, it was designed to actually
improve the vehicle's off- road capabilities, long considered the best in
the full-size SUV segment.
The Cruiser's rigid axle rear suspension remains nearly identical in
design to the previous generation, with a few important
refinements.
The rear control arm and shock absorber bushing were redesigned to
improve ride comfort by limiting the twisting effect on
the control arm bushing. Additionally, the suspension stroke was
increased and the rear axle housing strengthened. The result
is a suspension system of unique refinement and precision. It is as
comfortable, compliant and controlled off-pavement as it is
on the highway, with a level of durability and reliability that even
surpasses the previous generation.
The Land Cruiser will again feature a full-time, two-speed four-wheel
drive system linked to a four-speed automatic
overdrive transmission. The full-locking differential system will again
be offered as an option. However, due to the adoption
of the IFS, the front differential locker will be discontinued.
With the selector switch set in full lock mode and the transfer case set
in low-range four-wheel drive, the system will split
torque evenly front-to rear, with the rear wheels turning precisely in
unison at the same speed ... and the front wheels biasing
torque according to individual wheel traction.
Equally impressive is the Cruiser's all-new ABS system, which now will be
operational even in low-range four-wheel drive
while the center differential is locked. The new system will determine
road conditions according to changes in vehicle
acceleration and road roughness. As road roughness increases, ABS
influence will decrease. The system will also determine
the slope of the road. As the slope increases, ABS influence decreases.
The system is designed to enhance off-road braking
performance, allowing ABS control on poor traction surfaces, while
avoiding early activation on steep slopes.
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
The Cruiser's interior underwent a complete transformation for 1998, with
special emphasis on comfort, roominess, utility
and luxury appointment. The interior length and width were increased
considerably for improved passenger comfort and
cargo storage. Front seat slide was increased by nearly two inches and
rear leg room by nearly three inches at the number
two rear seats. Door openings were enlarged for easier ingress/egress,
and the luggage area opening has been enlarged to
improve the ease of cargo loading and unloading.
Storage space was improved dramatically. Cup holders are provided in the
front and rear of the console box and in the third
seat quarter trim areas when equipped with an optional third seat. An
overhead console offers three storage boxes plus an
eyeglass/garage opener compartment. Pockets are provided in front and
rear door trims, and there are separate
compartments for tools and jack and first aid kit.
Crash worthiness and occupant safety was a high priority with the new
Cruiser. The use of nine cross members instead of
six, increased structural integrity. The chassis side rail tips are now
made into axial-compression type collapsible zones to
ensure excellent energy-absorption characteristics.
Occupant safety is further enhanced with the inclusion of:
Driver and passenger-side air bags
Headrests and three-point belts for the middle-seat center passenger
Seat belts equipped with a pretensioner and force limiter for the front seats
* The extensive use of head impact protection in roof and pillars
Making the most of the Land Cruiser's wide cabin space, the instrument
panel was designed for ease of use and legibility,
while conveying a prestigious, upscale feel. Standard equipment includes:
A manually adjustable steering wheel
Power adjustable front seats
Power windows, door locks and heated outside mirrors
Air conditioning with climate control
3-in-1 AM/FM/cassette/CD stereo sound system
12-volt power outlets in the center cluster, rear console and rear quarter trim
Engine immobilizer
Cruise control
Available options include:
Power moon roof
Locking differential system
Leather seating surfaces
Roof rack
Third seat with power swing out rear quarter windows
Color And Trim
An array of new colors are offered on the 1998 Land Cruiser. In addition
to Black, the lone carryover color, new colors
include Natural White, River Rock Green Metallic, Champagne Pearl,
Mahogany Pearl, Desert Bronze, Imperial Jade Mica
and Atlantis Blue Mica. Land Cruiser's exterior is further complemented
by new color coordinated bumpers available in
Light Grayish Beige Metallic, Medium Gray Metallic and Dark Taupe
Metallic. Coordinated interior colors include Gray and
Oak and are available in leather or cloth fabric.
Limited Warranty
Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty applies
to all components other than normal wear and
maintenance items. Additional 60-month limited warranties cover
powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion perforation with
no mileage limitation. Toyota dealers have complete details on the
limited warranty.
SOURCE: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Jim Hassi
71 FJ-40 350 SB, SM465, discs, Auburns, PS, SO & reversed, 35"BFG MT, 9K
Pro+
85 FJ-60 - 31's, Con-Fer rack
Bellingham, WA - Member TLCA
Date sent: Fri, 20 Mar 1998 17:18:30 +1000
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
From: Christopher Nicholls
Subject: [80] 100 Series in Austrlaia - the models...[CHAT]
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Folks,
Because this is off-topic from 80 Series, I have included a [CHAT]icon for
filters.
In the latest Overlander 4WD mag the following info is revealed:
* The model line-up is as follows: GXV V8, GXL revised 4.5l petrol, GXL
Diesel with revised 1HZ motor, RV 4.5, RV 1HZ, Standard 4.5 and Standard
1HZ (Standard has barn doors).
* Only the GXV has IFS, all the other models come with live front axle. Has
double wishbones and torsion bars - off-road toughened set high and back to
avoid hassle
* V8 is 4.7 l, called the 2UZ-FE V8, 90 degree, cast iron block, alloy
heads, twin cams per bank, 4v/cylinder, 170kW @ 4800 RPM, 410Nm @ 3400 RPM.
* GXV has rack and pinion stearing.
*GXV is not the Sahara replacement - comes in at about $AUS70-75K.
* 1HZ engine is a revised version with revised glow-plugs, new head, block
and pistons from the 1HD-T, new injector nozzles, heavier flywheel, and a
new viscous cooling fan... Identical power but more torque - 285Nm @3800RPM
* 1FZ-FE 4.5l petrol has new intake manifold, new fuel injectors, and
Toyota's TDI ignition system.
* Power up on the 4.5 to 165kW @ 4600RPM, and torque to 387Nm.
* Fuel consumption is the same despite increase in overall weight (150-200kg)
* Transmissions and diffs same as 80 series (with a few revisions).
* Auto trans the same.
* Manual is strengthened - with triple-cone synchros on 1, 2, and 3rd gears
- single cone on 4, 5 and R.
* Auto avail on RV and GXL.
* Standard - part-time 4WD.
* RV and GXL have a viscous-coupled centre diff.
*GXLand GXV have power windows others all manual.
* GXL and GXV have dual airbags, ABS, remote central locking and cruise
control.
* GXL/RV/Standard Prices unknow at this stage - similar to current 80
Series equivalents.
Interstingly the pics all all in the Flinders Ranges.
Regards
Chris
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Christopher A. Nicholls
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Softway Pty Ltd ACN: 002 726 641
Canberra Branch Office: Advance Bank Centre,
60 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra City ACT 2602
Ph: +61 2 6243 4834
Fax: +61 2 6243 4848 E-mail: chrisn@softway.com.au
Mob: 0411 454 755 WWW: http://www.softway.com.au
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Date sent: Tue, 24 Mar 1998 14:00:01 -0800
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
From: Rob Mullen
Subject: [80] [Off topic] 100 Series
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
I think you guys that are annoyed by David Wylie's comments are taking them
out of context. Here are two snippets from the original message:
>The 100 is a disaster to Cruiserdom. It spells the end of the Land Cruiser
>line. Actually, the line ended with the 80 series. The 100 model is just a
>quantum leap into the dustbin of history.
>I have an unapologetically extreme view of the subject. Nobody in the world
>seems willing to produce a tough, high quality utility vehicle for the USA
>market anymore. Even Land Rover has left the field, and Jeep....well, I've
>owned three and good riddance to them. The whole thing makes me angry and
>more than a little sad.
Dave was ONLY referring to the IFS-equipped UZJ100/LX470 that North America
is going to get. He probably doesn't even know that the solid axle will
still be available elsewhere. When he says the line ended with the 80
series, I understand him to mean that everything AFTER the 80 series is
garbage. I certainly hope he includes the FZJ80 in at LEAST the same
esteem as the FJ60/62 series, as I do.
YES, the solid axle 100 series that Aus/Bolivia/... is going to get is a
more-refined 80 series (with ugly body work :) The only feature on it that
isn't completely superior to the all of the 25 - 80 series is that BS front
differential, but that's a carry-over from the 80 series.
The IFS equipped 100 series is a horse of a different colour. They've
attempted to make the 100 series more highway capable by putting in a bent
engine along with the IFS. By trying to please ALL of the people ALL of
the time, they've wound up with a vehicle that isn't particularly good for
ANYTHING! The IFS isn't suitable for off-road work more serious than
gravel roads.
If you guys think that replacing your Birfields every ~100,000mi is a
hassle, just wait until you discover the joy of little rubber CV booties
spinning constantly. If you lift an IFS equipped Pickup/Taco/4Runner at
all, you have to install locking hubs because CV joint/boot life decreases
to almost nil if they're spun at high speed with any sort of an angle on them.
Mind you, at least the 100 series may not have to deal with the problems of
being lifted. I seriously doubt that OME is going to make all the BS
basketry necessary to lift an IFS truck. They haven't for the recently
arrived in Aus IFS Hilux, or the Pray-doo. Nope, if you want to lift your
IFS 100, you'll likely be at the mercy of the suspension jury-riggers like
Rancho and Superlift. These guys will be in there filling the gap right
quickly. They've got years of experience with half-baked, poor-riding
suspension for torsion-bar equipped Toy Pickups and 4Runners.
Used 1985 4Runner prices are starting to get almost as over-inflated as
Land Cruiser prices around here. They ALWAYS go for more than 86-89 trucks
despite "only" having the 4-cyl vs. the later model's more powerful 6. The
reason? The 86-89 trucks have the same worthless torsion-bar suspension
that now graces the 100 series. IFS 4Runner/Pickup guys have a saying:
"There's nothing wrong with IFS that a cutting torch won't fix." They're
all burning off their IFS and welding on spring perches for pre-85 Hilux
front axles.
Back on the road, even with the higher-revving, higher horsepower V8, won't
be an Interstate star. It's still got too high a centre of gravity to be
really good at speed. On road, all that extra weight that was originally
intended to hold the LC together in the toughest conditions is a liability.
Toyota had a beautiful chance to create stronger product differentiation
between the LC and the Lexus and they BLEW IT. The LC should have
continued with the solid front end and been marketed more at people who'd
actually use its capabilities (Hey, why not offer a model down with no
leather/premium sound system!) The LX470 could then become the poseur's
cush-mobile of choice. Instead BOTH marques are going to be selling the
same useless vehicle.
Stick a fork in it, the Land Cruiser is DONE in North America.
____________________________________________________________________
Rob Mullen RAMullen@wimsey.com Vancouver, B.C. Canada |
Editor of the TLC FAQ TLCA #3036, Coastal Cruisers |
'80 Toyota BJ40/2 Land Cruiser Why walk?...When you can CRAWL!|
From: "Norm Needham"
To: <80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com>
Subject: [80] 100 series designation
Date sent: Thu, 26 Mar 1998 15:19:18 +1000
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Just got a fax from a dealer friend. New IFS Land Cruiser will be
designated #100, SOLID AXLE model will be designated #105.
Cheers *
Norm Needham * *
Traction 4 / ARB Northside *
Sydney, Australia *
Trac4@bigpond.com
From: "Willem-Jan Markerink"
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
Date sent: Thu, 26 Mar 1998 12:23:54 +0000
Subject: Re: [80] 100 series designation
Priority: normal
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
On 26 Mar 98 at 15:19, Norm Needham wrote:
> Just got a fax from a dealer friend. New IFS Land Cruiser will be
> designated #100, SOLID AXLE model will be designated #105.
Cool....this means:
- that the solid axle came back to life after they made the decision
to go with IFS completely
- that even Toyota rates the solid axle higher (highest number should
always represent state of the art technology)
Btw, any theories on why Australia doesn't get the HDJ-100/105 yet,
while in the Netherlands I hope to test drive one soon? (if my
dealer doesn't start polishing and stores it in his show room
without a chance to drive)
Could this Aussie delay be on purpose, not just to give the UZJ-100
some room on the market, but also to check their waters whether it
should be IFS or solid axle?
--
Bye,
Willem-Jan Markerink
The desire to understand
is sometimes far less intelligent than
the inability to understand
[note: 'a-one' & 'en-el'!]
From: Ian Bragg
To: "'80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com'" <80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com>
Subject: RE: [80] 100 series designation
Date sent: Fri, 27 Mar 1998 01:48:52 +1100
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
> From: Willem-Jan Markerink[SMTP:w.j.markerink@a1.nl]
> On 26 Mar 98 at 15:19, Norm Needham wrote:
>
> > Just got a fax from a dealer friend. New IFS Land Cruiser will be
> > designated #100, SOLID AXLE model will be designated #105.
>
> Cool....this means:
>
> - that the solid axle came back to life after they made the decision
> to go with IFS completely
> - that even Toyota rates the solid axle higher (highest number should
> always represent state of the art technology)
>
> Btw, any theories on why Australia doesn't get the HDJ-100/105 yet,
> while in the Netherlands I hope to test drive one soon? (if my
> dealer doesn't start polishing and stores it in his show room
> without a chance to drive)
> Could this Aussie delay be on purpose, not just to give the UZJ-100
> some room on the market, but also to check their waters whether it
> should be IFS or solid axle?
Willem,
One thing you can BET on, and that's that Toyota has done their
marketing analysis.
Based on the 80's pricing, the turbodiesel was ending up in a no win
area (of pricing) in the vehicle market. ie:
FZJ80 RV $49950
HZJ80 (base) $50480
FZJ80 GXL $53870 (+2800 for auto)
HZJ80 GXL $56100
HDJ80 GXL $68420 manual
HDJ80 GXL $73890 auto (bit more std equipmt)
FZJ80 VX $103320 (cf. RRover 4.0SE $10100)
HDJ80 VX $114220 (cf. RRover 4.6HSE $11500)
plus $2500 for A/C on every model plus about $4000 in taxes and
rego to put truck on-road.
The GXL turbo is too expensive in relation to the rest of the GXL range.
If someone could afford a GXL turbo, they could probably afford to go to
the VX model (unless they had family rates from Toyota ;-) ). With the
change to efi on the turbo (#100), the dropping of the VX and birth of
the LX470, I don't think there would be enough [money] difference
between the LX470 and TLC GXL to make the LX470 exclusive enough.
Traditionally, turbo diesels have been very expensive to bring to Oz.
This is one reason Nissan has never sold the TD42 in turbo form in Oz
(although they do sell the 2.8 TD). Car companies make more money
selling petrol engines in Oz than diesel traditionally.
(EFI diesels have been accepted reasonably well on the Oz market, but
I'm not sure that the TLC will be as well received. A lot of appeal of
the 1HZ is that there are NO electronics to stop the engine if you can
get it started. Which would you prefer to drive thru' a river?. A
mechanical injected diesel, or an efi motor?.)
Prices in Oz have actually been falling (generally, except TLC!) for the
past 2 years. If Toyota released the HDJ100 on the Oz market at a lower
price than the 80, there WILL be a lot of upset people when it comes
time to trade. Right, George?. Also, who would then buy the 1HZ or the
FZ?. I'm sure the majority of people would choose a turbo diesel given
similar costings and performance to a petrol.
I think Toyota will release the HDJ100 on our market, but down the track
(as GC has indicated). There is NO guarantee that the LX470 will be
accepted in our market and having the HDJ100 around could complicate
things, regardless if it's the best vehicle. Certainly, the buying
demographic for the LX470 will not be on this email list (Simon W
excepted!, he doesn't mind driving his house to and from work...).
In addition to all this, Toyota will have to try and fit the UZJ100 in
somewhere and give it time to establish. Personally, I don't think
Toyota should sell the UZJ100 in Oz, mainly because it will undermine
the LX470. The UZJ100 will be in a similar position to the current
HDJ80.
Toyota have no choice but to sell the HDJ100 in Europe. The 1HZ would be
iffy trying to pass emissions (IMHO) and no-one could afford to feed an
FZ/UZJ100.
IFS on the UZ will probably have more to do with production line
rationalisation and intended target audience ("I want a nice soft
ride...blah blah blah ")than anything else. It may be (IMHO again) that
the HDJ100 if it's released here, will also come with IFS only. This
would 'lock-out' the traditional buyers who want a live axle, but
justify pricing it wherever they (Toyota) want.
I wonder if Safari Turbo's have shares available...?. They are going to
make a motza on the lack of HDJ100!.
I haven't seen any Recommended Retail Pricing (RRP) yet, but I suspect
things will be clearer when this is officially released.
The #105 designation for the live axle, indicates to me that Toyota
originally intended to scrap it. They probably resurrected it when
Toyota Australia (at least) said they could lose a lot (>30%) of sales.
Nissan released their new Patrol late last year with no thought of IFS.
I'm sure it would have been a big winner if Toyota had gone to IFS
across the board.
Ian B
(VERY part-time industry analyst)
The opinions and postulations above are those of the writer only. There
is no proof that Toyota has made any decision based on any assumption
above. But, if it walks like a duck, looks like a duck, and sounds like
a duck...
From: georgec@melbourne.sgi.com (George Couyant)
Subject: [80] Rushed 100 Series
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com (80 Series Owners Online)
Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 14:21:13 +1100 (EST)
Reply-To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com Status:
Until now, the 100s I'd seen were pre production versions. They were put
together very well even though there were bits and pieces missing or hand
made. Had a long look at a couple of production GXLs today. Man, did they
rush these out the door or what. Reminded me of a Range Rover. Rubber
bungs missing underneath, reeeeaally sloppy sealing putty, rivets on the
windscreen surround missing or only partially in, etc.
A couple of quick observations, the enclosed panel under the doors on the
side of the car (the one that fills with water on our 80's) doesn't have
rubber bungs to empty it. The little drain slits that clog with mud will
have to be cleaned religiously.
Also, with all the plastic paneling in the front wheel wells it means we
won't be able to run Mud TA's out in the rocky parts of our outback. The
rocks will absolutely destroy the light weight moulded plastic bits.
Sigh...
A few more bits and pieces exposed. Lots of electrical looms and plugs are
now exposed. High Country sticks are going to play havoc on them.
There's more to a good off road vehicle than the basic engineering. It's
attention to detail that made the LC what it is^H^H was. Things are
slipping....
Don't rush out for one just yet folks.
Cheers
gc
From: "Peter Blaxter"
To: <80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com>
Subject: Re: [80] 80 VS 100
Date sent: Mon, 20 Apr 1998 00:35:19 +1000
Send reply to: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com
-----Original Message-----
From: Ronny Gabrieloff
To: 80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com <80_series@palladium.corp.sgi.com>
Date: Sunday, April 19, 1998 4:27 PM
Subject: [80] 80 VS 100
>The showdown is aproaching. 80s VS 100s. I have still not seen a100 in
>the flesh (or is it plastic.) I used to drive a 60, and switched to an
>80 in 93. When I owned the 60 I had a mental wish list of how it should
>be improved. More power/speed, 4wdisk ABS brakes, sunroof, more cargo
I got few pre editions of 4x4 & Overlander mags at the Sydney 4wd show
today.
1st 100 road tests & comparisons are that the 100 is an improvement on the
80 in braking & handling
The IFS V8 "in the rougher stuff, it seems to falter under the heavy weight
of the big cruiser." & "Driving along potholed roads the front end
compresses right down,something you don't see in the live axle cruiser."
4x4 mag.
Toyota Aust don't expect much market share with the V8 It'l be a small % of
100's sold.
>area, etc. The utility/reliability provided by this vehicle is
>astounding. It is obvious the designers knew what was needed. For me the
>utility provided by a 100 is a clear case of devolution. the prospect of
>having no roof gutters to mount my roof racks was enough motivation for
>me to get a new 80 before they were gone. The use of the roof for cargo
>is indispensable. I refuse to buy a vehicle in this price range that
>deletes this option.
TJM already have a rack for the 100 with a load capacity of 200kg
How much money could they be saving with the
>skimping they are doing compared to their selling prices? No front
>locking diffs! Wimpy structure!
The editorial of Overlander was devoted to the fact that Aust. was lucky to
not get IFS on all models.
Only last minute testing on steep rocky stepped hills in Aust. allowed us to
get solid front axles.
Time to speak up and let Toyota know
>what is important to you, and as for the mall cruising 100 owners who
>may not know any better, let them know that they are driving a
>compromised vehicle so they also will speak up. Let your dealer know
>every chance you get.
Don't hold your breath as IFS on all 4 wheels is in the pipeline within the
next 2 series of LC's
Solid axles MAY be available on dase models
>
>Ronny Gabrieloff
>
>*
Sorry Ronny , the future doesn't look bright.
BTW those May issues of the mags are out in a few weeks.
BBTW 4x4 has an article about changing the STD 80 instrument cluster with a
GXL one.
Cheers
Peter,
pblax@bigpond.com
Send reply to: "Peter Blaxter"
From: "Peter Blaxter"
To:
Subject: 4x4 Aust editorial
Date sent: Mon, 20 Apr 1998 12:06:36 +1000
I've sent this off line so as to not clog up the 80 list with 100 stuff
" Kondo's dilemma was to design a LC that would work well in different
markets all with their own applications & demands.
His solution was live axle-rear & IFS front. However the product guys at
Toyota Aust weren't so convinced that the usually conservative Aust. market
would accept something as radical as a H/D LC with IFS. Moreover they were
concerned that our harsh & sometimes difficult operating conditions a
vehicle with IFS may not perform as well as one with a live axle especially
in the hands of fleet operators, mining co.s & hard-core enthusiasts.
Toy. Aust engineers & product planners then set about convincing Japan to
retain live front axles.
In the end it came down to comparative field testing in Aust on a steep
track with a series of rock steps to prove the point & a compromise was
reached.
That the GXV would be IFS & all other models in the range retain live axles.
In this regard Aust. is unique in all other markets the IFS will be std
across the range.
Don't expect live axles to be around for ever. The next generation of LC
will have IFS on all models & maybe even IRS. Certainly the generation after
that will adopt IS at both ends."
Thats most of the ED. from May Overlander Mag.
Another section noted that our STD model will be one of the most capable 4wd
LC's ever.
Most 100 series have had a wheel track increase of 25mm front &15mm rear,
were as the STD gets 70mm front &60mm rear.
So better stability & wheel travel.
Cheers
Peter,
pblax@bigpond.com
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