Will New Toyotas Ever Be As Good As Old Ones?

My Toyota Tacoma and my 80 series Land Cruiser are both great off-road trucks. Clearly, many of you feel the same! This was a video idea inspired by many of you who asked for a comparison between the two. Both have the same 39" BFG km3s, both have RCV axle shafts, 5.29 Yukon gears, ARB air lockers, Powerstop brakes, etc.
But aside from the parts, these are definitely apples to oranges.
However, based on your questions I'm inspired to talk about what it's like to own each truck. When planning for this video I realized that we might not ever see an offroad-specific truck quite like the 80 series Landcruiser again.
That's a shame in my opinion.
What do you think? Is progress in offroad tech worth the compromise in offroad reliability?
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#toyotalandcruiser #toyota #toyotatacoma

[@tylerbuhite5432]

Nate is just the GOAT, humble, honest, actually builds his stuff. In a world full of deep pocket corporate offroaders. You sir have all my respect. Could we please see New jeep Vs Older jeep comparison. Being a TJ and WJ guy. Id love it

[@DirtLifestyle]

Thank you for the huge compliment 🙌. A Jeep version of this would be cool. I hope to get started on the TJ after sema 👊

[@andreyka64]

Nate’s gotta buy the new Land Cruiser and build it up , and compare all 3 !

[@DirtLifestyle]

Dude, I would love to! I'm very curious how basic you can buy the new LC. I would want to start with the absolute base model and turn it into a "weapon" as my friends in Australia say 😎.

[@J-P88]

Sadly America only gets what the rest of the world calls the 250 series Prado the baby brother of the 300 series Landcruiser

[@thepaddockengineer]

Good news 70 series news for 2024: It looks like some of them might even have electric windows and mirrors😂! (It also looks like some still have manual😂😂) And its been confirmed an auto will be available! Alternatively, there is of course the 2024 Toyota Defender😂!

[@CACressida]

@@thepaddockengineer 70 series land cruiser has had power window and mirror options since the 80s.

[@thepaddockengineer]

@@CACressida I stand corrected; I had thought the only electric mirrors available where msa, clearview, ocam, etc. (I'll have another look and see if they'll work for my Sierra😅)

[@jonathanmoran1697]

I had an '85 Toyota pickup. It was great, but it was like sitting sitting in an Formula 1 car. The '90's were the turning point, where the American public wanted a pickup truck that rode/drove like a car. And like you pointed out, we will never see a simple truck again.

[@Fix_It_Again_Tony]

Americas also want them bigger. It's obvious in how the "compact" segment morphed into the "midsize" segment. Compact trucks like the Ranger or the Tacoma basically disappeared into the 2000's. Companies like Ford with the Maverick are trying to bring back the compact truck, but it's a car platform, not a truck one. As you alluded to trucks have surged in popularity in a way that buyers use them as daily drivers just to and from work (I'm not talking about contractors - I'm talking about desk jockeys). So previously when blue collars guys using their trucks for work would look past some of the shortcomings of old trucks, now people want to load their families into their DD and take it to the movies or pick their kicks up from soccer practice. They want four doors and second row seating. Simple trucks died because now consumers instead of workers are the primary demographic. What used to be utilitarian is now expected to be more civilized, efficient and safe. The off road community is a tiny subset of vehicle buyers and almost no one buys a new vehicle to modify, despite what we see on KZbin. If we want something we need to build it.

[@Zatara113]

@@Fix_It_Again_Tony Not true. The ridiculous EPA regulations are reason we don't have small trucks anymore. There's a few videos covering that topic

[@jameswacker7483]

I’m glad you got to price point. Unfortunately new Cruisers were/are insanely expensive for a wheeler.

[@johnmadsen37]

Yeah. I’ve trashed a 21’ 4runner at 30k (panel damage everywhere). Now trashing a 22 gladiator at 58k. There are limitations to mods which is the real difference for off-roading performance. Ifs isn’t very good.

[@rocksylvaniaoverland]

It might not be practical, but I'm a regular guy, who took 8 years to gradually save and 3-link my 05 tacoma. Absolutely love it. 💯

[@EvanMoon]

The real difference is how much cooler that Land Cruiser looks, and it’s stock. The truck looks awesome with that custom camper bed but I just love old Toyotas.

[@foihdzas]

What’s up Nate. So, apples to pears here. I used to have a 2nd Gen Taco. The usual mods, small lift, 33’s bumpers. Loved it, wheeled it, miss it dearly. Now I’m in a 5th Gen 4Runner, same stuff. 33’s, small lift, stock limited plastics. Compared to the taco, it is a Mountain Goat. So much flex comparatively, and well balanced (weight) I’ve never had electrical gremlins. In EITHER trucks. 🤷‍♂️

[@robinfly7303]

I used to wheel a GX470, and now my current 96 FZJ80. I love my 80 as a rock crawler but missed the GX V8 power when I was on the freeway until I installed a TRD supercharger on my 4.5 engine. It now drives like a V8 GX470 on the freeway and fuel economy is about the same as before supercharging. Most importantly for me, it is still California smog legal 😊 The way things go, I am very likely to keep this truck for life.

[@slzbuildz]

I was going to buy a late model taco, but I bought an 80 series a year and a half go. So glad I did. I love this LC80 and just now started working on it. I think at least a 3 inch lift would do wonders on the trails.

[@matthewferrier9675]

Nate, this held my attention like no other video of yours has. You're well-spoken and reasonable in your presentation, without bluster or bravado. Keep up the good work.

[@ChuckUnderFire]

I love that you actually spoke to all the legitimate reasons for the engineering involved in modern vehicles. It’s not just looks and preferences.

[@Roks4life]

There has been so many times I have contemplated selling my ZJ. But always come back to the fact that i cannot afford a newer jeep (for me thats a JK) and taking a loan out for one when the ZJ is paid off and literraly owes me nothing beside a hope and prayer that it will continue to start up. Running an older rig for offroad use is reality while having a nicer tow rig/daily driver makes more sense.

[@blackhillsbuilds]

As someone that has owned and built up both and 3rd gen tacoma and now an 80 series..... I have one reaction to everything you said in this video.... "YES"

[@Relyk711]

NATE! IMPORTANT FUNCTION. I didn't learn it until 3 years of ownership of my 2018 Tacoma... If you hold down the Cruise control for an extra few seconds, it will use "classic" cruise control. No sensors, no adaptive what's whatever. Just here is a speed, do it. Just used it on a long stretch of i5 today and it is always much appreciated to stretch the legs a bit.

[@erichvonarnim8732]

I am an 80 owner so I am biased, but I think if you also gave the 80 a 3.5” lift, it would really start to shine and be a fairer comparison. Love the 80 content! My mouth waters when you mention doing a 3 link up front on the 80! Yes please!!!

[@blairskevington6631]

thats a great way of describing the 2 operating systems in the trucks asking vs telling

[@mikesnyder2335]

I wheel with an 80 series , in fact we met y'all on trail to Sema on Holcombe creek trail. Sometimes I take an old T4r sfa , sometimes an 04 v8 4R on 35s with lockers . My conclusion is the 80 is probably the best Toyota ever brought to the US . Really Great content Nate .

[@DirtLifestyle]

Thank you! I agree. These 80s are the best toyota has sold here.

[@willb3018]

Love hearing this comparison from a guy who really lives these vehicles. I am not an off roader but I love all kinds of vehicles and what can be done with them. This is one of the best channels for that.

[@matthewhofherr7690]

When looking for a new (work truck, not wheeler) I thought I was going to get a Tacoma but took one for a test drive and I absolutely could not get over the seating position. I ended up getting a 2019 Tundra. I also have an FJ62 and can’t believe the amount of glass in the truck and interior space. It’s amazing how much bigger the interior of an old truck is without airbags and modern creature comforts.

[@ratfarmers]

Just watched this on a plane on my phone with subtitles and can't wait to rewatch to hear the 0-60 comments! My SIL has 2 FJ62's in a garage that I've been trying to get but my wife says I have to get rid of 2 vehicles to add 1!?! Wife math.

[@CtrlTechKev]

Not sure if people are aware but with the 3rd gen Tacoma's cruise control you can bypass the radar and pre collision sensors by pressing and holding the cruise control button when you turn it on. Then you can use cruise control without the radar.

[@mattyevil138]

Tacoma is awesome the way you built it, I’d still take the Lexus every day of the week. I know you want it to be low and not too top heavy but sounds like a lift is in the cards

[@OldBlue62]

You are right on the money in the comparison between older mechanical connections to your vehicle and the newer computer controlled connections. Give me the older mechanical systems anytime.

[@BlackHawk295]

The other problem with light trucks in the 90's that weren't made in America is the "Chicken Tax" where we levied a 25% tax on foreign light trucks because they did the same to US poultry which made a lot of these rigs more expensive than other counterparts which kind of stunted the sales I bet. I still want a 79 series land cruiser here in the states XD

[@Richard-xv7yf]

Someone has a 2 door selling on fb marketplace in Florida. Think it's lhd too

[@DirtLifestyle]

I'm very firmilar! Killed the vw bus unfortunately 🤦‍♂️

[@Vse_yob]

I like this video a lot. Appreciate the unbiased opinion of both platforms.

[@ectolle54]

I love the comparison between old and new and I think this comparison is pretty universal in a lot vehicles.

[@Beacon_Offroad]

I love both the trucks. Glad to see someone doing it right on Toyota platforms. I have a 20 Tacoma and 97 4Runner.

[@ethanm5639]

I'm so glad you made this video. I'm always trying to explain to others why I appreciate the simple performance of old rigs. That's why I love my 1997 Jeep XJ. 90s to early 2000s, Japanese or old American = best cars .

[@toddbrewington2748]

I love the straight forward facts from your videos. I loved my 2nd gen Toyotas especially the SAS'd one. Keep up the good work man.

[@allentisthammer4763]

Nice comparison. I've got a 95 Tacoma SR5 and a 21 TRD Offroad Two different rigs that I have given me so much pleasure off-roading. The 21 electronic shifting is at times a real POS compared with the 95 like you stated! Watching you build the 21 along with off roading it had been great, thanks for taking us along!

[@protacodan4225]

Love my 2017 Tacoma on 38’s with Marlin RCLT, definitely not for the faint of heart when it comes to “build cost”. Thanks Nate

[@JeepXJ8895]

Thank you for this diligent comparison and also the eating of your own words to a degree as well. I think there are a lot of harder offroad folks out there that will stand by their "old era" wheeling rigs for the same principle as you have(i completely agree with you btw). It is hard to deny the amenities that come standard now days, Functioning AC, adjustable Lumbar support, improved headlights/lighting - things have definitely come a long way. We gain in some areas but sacrifice in others.

[@abpsd73]

Late 90's/early 2000s was pretty much the end date for easy to deal with electronics on vehicles, every system had it's own module and sensors/actuators, and it was relatively simple to add/delete something if you wanted to upgrade or eliminate an issue. Modern vehicles have so many systems co-integrated into each other sharing sensors, and the bulk of wiring has been slashed to a few sending CAN bus messages to each other. Even on my TDI swap, I have to figure out some sort of workaround for a check engine light and glow plug indicator, since there are no longer outputs from the ECU for them, it's CAN bus to the instrument cluster.

[@BUTTSBMX]

Good comparison points! I come from wheeling old picks/runners with Matt back in the day, and currently have been wheeling my 19 Tacoma in places it shouldn't go. Definitely cant see out of it, the electrical gremlins are there sometimes, but like you said, cant beat the Ifs clearance up front, and all the comfort when driving backrounds/desert/across country compaired to an LC.

[@stevew9247]

I agree with you on the Tacoma seating position. For what it's worth, the seating position on the FJ Cruiser is way better than the taco.

[@windex23]

I want to know what broke in your Tacoma's front diff when you went wheeling with Dave last winter!!! Great video!

[@manytreees2068]

Nate, when using your Tacoma CC, hold the CC on button for about 5 seconds, it will then revert to "old-school" CC without the sensor.

[@anthonyraines5951]

I love watching builds of all types and i love the stuff you've done but I'll still take my square body Chevy over anything new or old

[@michaelanderson1587]

Great video and real topic of discussion. I have a 1998 4runner on tons, 39's and dual cases. I'm a die hard Toyota fan. Your analogy of apples to oranges is spot on but its all about function. Keep doing what your doing, love your honesty.

[@RustyJeepHole]

I really love what you did with the Land Cruiser. Awesome build, you are a bad ass!

[@DirtLifestyle]

Thank you!!!

[@CVisionProductions1]

Try those skyjacker seat spacers from desert does it for your Tacoma. They are amazing. They really help the seat angle and I’ve never felt more comfortable.

[@DirtLifestyle]

I should get something like that 👍

[@deucebigs9860]

@@DirtLifestyle I got them for the front of mine from desertdoesit and they definitely made a huge difference in seat comfort, but now my head is even closer to brushing the ceiling which isn't great. I keep thinking about swapping in some Lexus seats or something.

[@joma13344]

I remember when I was looking for a truck, the driving position and visibility turned me off of the Tacoma. I ended up with a 2nd gen frontier, and while my ownership hasn’t been exactly trouble free, I feel like I’m glad I went with it. I feel like the frontier has superior parts and driving position and comfort while having an inferior build quality.

[@Fix_It_Again_Tony]

The transmission, transfer case and rear axle all are shared with the Titan. I think a bolt in V8 swap is possible but the bell housing might need to be changed - you would also want to reprogram the TCM. I am sure almost no one does this, but the hard parts are all the same as with the V8 truck. Some Frontier variants have the smaller C200 rear axle, but manual transmission and Pro4X models have the Dana M226, which is the same as a Rubicon rear. And you are right about the driving position, the seat is definitely higher relative to the floor than the Taco in the video. I love my second gen. Doing a SAS swap right now with 14" coilovers and 37x12.5" tires. I've been dreaming about this swap since I had a Hardbody in high school (ca. 2000), and now I have the means to pull it off. Old Ford axles (1977 F150 w/ D44 and 9") have just about the same WMS as the Frontier originally. Shows how much the trucks have grown in size over time. The compact truck segment doesn't exist any more. Now they are cars with beds (looking at you, Ford Maverick).

[@Thexkidd]

My buddy has a sas’ed hardbody. What year Nissan joma?

[@utahjohnnymontana3373]

People dog on the Frontier a lot...but my pro4x has given me no problems in five years now. I like the taller glass, taller seats, lower beltline and shorter hood. Visibility is important.

[@joma13344]

@@Thexkidd I got a 2016 pro4x 6mt

[@joma13344]

@@utahjohnnymontana3373 I agree. The semi truck I drive for work has better visibility than most of these pickup trucks.

[@ChronicMasterHater]

I’m lucky enough to have a pretty built 2nd Gen Tacoma on 35s (not nearly as built as yours) and a fzj80 on 35s. Absolutely agree with everything you’ve said. Love them both. Feels like the 80 is an off-road vehicle that’s pretty good on the road and the Tacoma feels like a solid practical truck that’s pretty good off-road.

[@trailrunnah8886]

That's funny, that's exactly how I describe the modern Jeep Wrangler versus the modern 4Runner. 4Runners are street vehicles that can do okay off road, Wranglers are off-road vehicles that can do okay on the street. Pick your priority. I drive a 13 4Runner, would absolutely love to have an 80.

[@aaronscott2278]

Amazing video recently gotten rid of our 94 LC with factory triple lockers we daily drove it for years trans went out couldn’t afford fix it and for how expensive parts are we sold it and got back into a 3rd gen 4Runner I sure miss it but nice to drive and own something little more affordable and easier to get parts for amazing video man !! Loving the builds can’t wait to be able to build up our runner

[@michaelprince77]

They make a spacer lift for the tacoma seats. You could fab one and go as high as you want without hitting your head. Also, the dealership can disable the active cruise and crash system. The pdf can be found on the tacoma forums. Tss disabling.

[@surferweller]

Would be interesting to compare the stock 1990s 80 series to a stock new tacoma :)

[@DirtLifestyle]

Stock 80 series > any stock tacoma

[@surferweller]

@@DirtLifestyle Better for sure, but the question is how much better..... 😁

[@DirtLifestyle]

@@surferweller lol

[@JacopoSkydweller]

The answer to how much better is MANY. Many better. @@surferweller

[@yd4330]

The 80 is too low. My 80 was on a 4 inch lift on 39s. You would have no problems if you had more lift. I recently sold my 80 and went back to a 1st gen 4r for dual cases on 80 axles

[@chandleremerine6130]

agreed

[@DirtLifestyle]

I couldn't agree more. To low for the type of rocks I like 🤘. Easy fix...

[@sleepii15]

This was a cool comparison; excellent video!

[@justinneuman5446]

Great video! Very realistic breakdown and valid points! Made me think haha keep em comin!🤙

[@timcope6685]

Awesome job Nate!! I still wish I had my 1988 SR5 Toyota 4x4 pickup, 22R with a 5spd manual! That thing stock was able to hit and succeed most jeep trail's. Again Awesome comparison and Awesome work Sir!

[@JB-ss3bv]

You’ve captured all the things I love about the gladiator re modern vs vintage 4x4’s. Mechanical transfer case linkage, excellent visibility (I can poke my head out and see the front wheel track), upright seat position, and at least on my spec - none of the radar/sensor stuff that is prone to breaking. Now it’s the last NA, port injection, simple Stanley V6 in a midsize truck market overcrowded with turbo 4’s. Say what you will about the dour old Pentastar but it’s an objectively solid motor. Toyota has a warm place in my heart for Toyota but Jeep’s the only one still doing old school. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.

[@firestartercanti6636]

Just picked up a 100 series Land Cruiser and love it so far, but its never going to be as capable as either of those, unless I SAS it. Thanks to you that thought is in my head now. The other option for getting some badass Toyota trucks is talking to an importer. The age of most of the really cool ones is more than 25 years now which makes them easier and legal to import. Would love to see your channel get a RHD 60 or 70 series Landcruiser. Makes getting the diesel versions possible as well.

[@DirtLifestyle]

I want a 79 series soooooooo bad! Maybe one day...

[@4x406Offroad]

Good comparison. Your segment on the airbags and cage reminded me of another safety consideration I’ve been aware of for a while. I just spent 5 years on a college baja race team, where we built tube chassis cars and had strict requirements about the safety gear we use; 5 point harnesses, neck supports, wrist restraints, helmet, fireproof clothes and gloves and shoes. Since you have a lot of rigs with cages, I am curious what your thoughts are about putting a roll cage in something that gets used on the street. I have crashed our race cars plenty, the harness only works because you’re also wearing the neck support and helmet, because it doesn’t give like a seatbelt does but your head still carries that momentum and is not otherwise restrained. Those cars and all the safety gear were designed to be a rigid body, there is no absorption of energy through deformation of any of the parts. Putting a cage and harness in a street vehicle seems to only make things safer for the occupants (in an on road collision, I know if you roll on trail you’re probably much better off with the cage) if you are going to commit to wearing such safety equipment, helmet to prevent your head from hitting cage members, neck donut to prevent neck injury from the stiffer restraints, etc, but no one is going to suit up like that just to go to work, or the store, or the trailhead. So am I overthinking it, or is everyone driving around on streets with a cage just accepting that the threshold for injury in an accident is lower? I don’t ever hear much about this aspect except for the exo cage guys using it as a point in their favor that there’s no tubes to hit you head on. Sorry, long comment. Thanks in advance.

[@GrizzlyPath]

This is along a similar train of thought as offroad bumpers and sliders and the like. It's seriously worth considering the on-road safety when installing these things on our vehicles, something that many countries don't let you do for these reasons. Coming out of an accident with no damage to your heavy duty vehicle is great, but not necessarily at the expense of the person who's pancaked into you in their Honda Civic. IMO something that's more of an "overlander" would be better to retain as many safety features as possible, where something more offroad oriented could potentially be trailered. Where that line is is blurred obviously, and I'm someone with multiple on road safety affecting modifications just like many who might read this comment.

[@LScout800]

Rear dana 70/14 bolt out of van, super wide, cut the driver side tube and sleeve it to make it the same legnth as a normal narrow truck axle and use a shaft from the narrower axle. The van axles are cheap and have disk brakes with parking brakes, even the newer ford ones from the early 2000's used 8×6.5 bolt patterns. Then get a set of knuckles and hubs off of a 92-97 ford dana 60 (they will bolt right up to the superduty inner c's) in order to get the 8×6.5 bolt pattern and ability to run 35 splone shafts without custom unit bearings.

[@jessemangrum5733]

I remember the first thing I noticed when I bought my 80 is how massive the windshield was and being able to see out of everything not to many blind spots. Definitely my favorite out of all the yotas I own.

[@404Offroad_NotFound]

Would love to see you getting back to your channel roots and get your TJ up and running again.

[@garrettwagoner726]

i got seatjackers for my tacoma. they work fantastic for the seating issues and pain

[@snowysysadmin59]

Very well done video. I used to have a 2003 Ford Ranger. Now, the highest trim level (FX 4X4) of those DID have the dual stick setup but mine was just a electronic transfercase. And while i was offroading or whatever, i was always concerned that one day, the electronic actuator would just fail on me. would just quit out. or like you said, a rock or something snags the wire and rips it out on the trail. So i was always after either a stick transfer case to swap in, or a different truck. Just recently, like 3 weeks ago, I bought a 1992 Toyota 4Runner. It needs some motor work, but if i cant fix it at a cheap price point, im LS swapping it, get a r150f to LS bellhousing, throwing a 6.0l in there and calling it a day. The transfer case having the stick vs an electric actuator, is like you said, telling it to go into 4low or 4 high, rather than asking it. The Ranger, stop, put in the clutch, switch the knob to 4 low, wait 3 seconds, hear some relays click and then it enables the 4low. In this thing, stop, put it in 4low, and keep going. takes a total of 2 seconds. I love it. and its so satisfying. and you just dont get that in modern vehicles anymore. people are like why do you want a 30 year old vehicle. BECAUSE OF THAT. Unfortunately theyre IFS but a 1 ton SAS swap is doable on these. Im very much considering get a d60 for it. I have a GM 14bolt i was going to use for a different project but very much considering for this truck in the rear IF i go through with a sas swap. dont want to get ahead of myself just yet.

[@AatAdam]

You should build a 3rd Gen 4Runner 99-2002 IFS with front manual locking hubs and factory rear locker.

[@kristoferfc6525]

I love it, you said I'm TELLING it not asking lmao

[@DirtLifestyle]

Lol 😎

[@tommyboy3950]

Nate, it would be great to see you do an install of portals on an IFS Toyota. 74weld or something else. The RCLT HD is great but portals could be a solution for the modern day rock-lander. Yes more expensive but if more people purchase them the price will hopefully come down. Anyhow, your channel is great even if you don't ever do something with portals. Although you could get 39s with only minor mods. You have to admit that it would be great to see how standard bolt-on portals stack up on someone's channel.

[@DirtLifestyle]

I love the idea! But the reality sucks 🤦‍♂️. Portals on stock tacoma suspension and steering would destroy the undersized factory components. The scrub radius is increased substantially with a portal box , and adding a big tire on top of that is a recipe for disaster if you take it offroad. 74 weld is super high quality, but the Tacoma suspension and steering are not...

[@tommyboy3950]

True but who better to show how to do it right. If someones gonna do it, your the builder that could show us all a good way to get it done the right way. I know price is a factor but when you hit 1 million subscribers then consider it.

[@tommyboy3950]

Wanted to add that portals are billed as the perfect solution. Keep your stock gearing, keep your stock geometry, gear done at portals, negative wheel offset, narrower tires, converts rear axle to full float, keeps factory abs, less strain on factory toyota parts. This is what they say in the marketing. Not sure really what the truth is on the subject.

[@hotflashfoto]

I have a 2004 Xterra. Like your 1997 Lexus, it has the manual 4WD shifter. I don't like the electro-gimmickry for something that is so straight-forward.

[@jimmydst]

excellent video and analysis. This largely applies to all new vs. old 4x4's. I have a 2001 Discovery 2 TD5 and a 2019 Discovery 5. The D2 will drag you home as there is much less to go wrong but the D5 is very sensitive and could leave you stranded :-) Thanks - from the UK!

[@aloharover5980]

There are so many people that would die for those Cruise axles to put into their Rover D1, RRC or Defender. It’s a very popular upgrade for us Rover folks And for your cruiser rear axle look at the Defender 110 Salisbury

[@JohnGrit]

Bro, your builds are flipping Awesome! Tastefully done!

[@imthedudemane]

Wow the breakdown at 15 min was great

[@Ironmerchant]

Man you hit a home run with me with the “asking my truck for permission” thing drives me freaking insane on my 2022 F150. It’s why my other stuff is all old jeeps and yota’s. Let me decide what’s best for my truck.

[@You_Me_and_Glady]

Yo Nate, your FJ80 is awesome brother!, I had a 1991 I purchased for 3500.00 with 100k miles on it, bought in 2001. Had OME suspension w/ 33 mud terrains. Sold it for 6k several years later. I’m such an idiot. I miss that thing. Loving your build series. However, thank God for Jeep for having a very competent off road vehicle out of the box, and lots of accessories, etc. Cheers!

[@kylescaggs]

Time for a couple more inches of lift on the Cruiser

[@DirtLifestyle]

Absolutely

[@2manyhobbies76]

There is just something "authentic" about an older Toyota. I love my 3rd gen 4runner. Just does whatever I ask (as long as it isn't fast or towing too much).

[@chrisc2431]

I love the TRD Tacoma and 4Runner because they have manual transfer cases…not computer controlled. Great video Nate!

[@rockie307]

Just wondering why you prefer manual transfer case over electric?

[@chrisc2431]

@@rockie307 no electric solenoid/actuator failure with a manual transfer case.

[@15jwrangler]

Looks are subjective. But I prefer the gladiator to the 3rd gen Tacoma. To each their own. I like both but I still like the gladiator more. However, it has to be lifted and bigger tires. Stock they do look stupid.

[@bwofficial1776]

Gladiators need bigger tires to look right. The body and wheel wells are too big for the tiny stock tires. Likewise, the new Bronco doesn't look right unless it has massive tires to counterbalance the massive body.

[@15jwrangler]

@@bwofficial1776 agreed! I wish the flares that came on the Everglades were on all models. I like the bronco but I can’t get past the flares.

[@chublez]

I felt the pain of all the Yota fans when you pointed out that obvious piece of info. Jeeps are just better for hardcore stuff and have been for more than 2 decades. It's obvious if you go to the trails and look with your eyes and drop the fanboi that the majority of anything making down trail that isn't rusty old iron(and plenty that is) has a jeep badge. It's a shame as I agree Yota makes a pretty truck(JT sure isn't), it's just got outdated tech inside and isn't as good when the trail gets rough, makes a better soft roader now that they finally do carplay and android auto maybe. Appreciate the channel and your ability to more objectively evaluate the subject than some more brand loyal channels, even if you do drive a suspicious number of Toyotas, Keep up the good work filming our beautiful state!

[@amorton94]

80 Series have been popping up on my local FB Marketplace a lot lately. Very tempting.

[@DirtLifestyle]

Dude, I have been seeing some great deals on 80 series lately! Finally 😁

[@iankovac1878]

I have had many old toyotas and help my buddy build countless fj40/60/80 series. Your 80 series on the same size tires and a old man emu kit, and 3 link would kill. No need for 1 tons. About the older trucks. I prefer 83-85 pickups, they are gutless and uncomfortable, but the body clearance, ground clearance and ability ro run up to 3 tcases (83 top shift only for a 3fer) is unmatched. With leaf springs i got 22 inches out of the front, and 16 in the back. That was with just Trail Gear/All Pro type suspention kits. Factory width is 55 inches in 85, so a front 80 axle is 63.5 and is a full sized swap, either taco rear with spacers, or a early t100 rear at 64 inches. Good ground clearance, flex, good mileage if you have a 4 banger, it is what makes the 83-85 best in my book.

[@tophatvideosinc.5858]

the FJ cruiser is a damn goo in-between. has the robust build quality and "tell you what to do" features of an older yota, while meeting the looks, features and safety of a newer one. love that they kept the second lever too. also the 05 gx470 is extremely capable as an overlander and even possibly a crawler. more so an overlander because of its height adjustable air suspension making it easy to lower it on the roads and lift when off them. it also automatically levels itself when weight is added to the back, whether it be a trailer or lots of gear. gx470s are also cheap, talking 15k for a well taken care of rust free one under 150,000 miles. 5 year loan looking at 250 per month. though i shouldnt be talking, i spent 20k on an fj cruiser with 200k mi even though its on the same frame as the 2011 gx, 4runner, land cruiser and tacoma models. when all of them are thousands cheaper with 25% less miles.

[@Garcias_garage724]

Awesome comparison between the 2 and comparing the new tech vs the older simple rigs. My 98 4runner has been an eye opening rig for me in a good way. Different strokes for different folks

[@RobertBrown-sh7ql]

Love the custom vinyl wrap hood on the 80..

[@danbenjamin9917]

Great build Nate! I was pulling (and voting) for you to make it back to OA2023. Can't wait to see the SEMA build 👍

[@angelmvniz]

Yeah I’m staying with old trucks. Just recently scored a 99 Land Rover discovery 2 that I’m building into a rock lander. Hope to meet you in the trails soon Nate!

[@SNLandCruisers]

Plenty of cheap easy things you can do to the Cruiser to make it better. Since you can fab anyways. I dumped a Taco in 2012 (an 04) and went to a Cruiser simply because I hated the seating position in it. The Cruiser is where it is at for field of vision and seating position. BTW, I build Cruisers for a living, I do like your build on the LX!

[@kyhillbillys10]

Unfortunately the land cruiser might be too low for that type of terrain

[@DirtLifestyle]

Absolutely! Way too low. But that's an easy fix 😁

[@Scoobienorth]

I bought my gladiator and it’s been awesome. It spins 37’s stock with ease, super capable, good on road but the modern electronics and “safety” stuff you talk about are really wearing on me and as time goes on I’m less attracted to it. I’m just importing a clean tj from Japan and building that for wheeling and I’ll build a “touring rig” that can explore or tow the tj.

[@bertbccfu9564]

That's the same exact cruise control stalk as my 1998, that's crazy they have used that all these years

[@adamsonofdon2766]

If I ever get the chance to build a rig, it’ll be an import 70 series. Great video and cheers from Sedro Woolley

[@Blakeink13]

As an Aussie I think another thing to mention is that America for a long time didn’t allow diesels, where Australia was getting diesels for decades. Even the 100 series cruiser came out with the 1HD-FTE engine which is nearly bulletproof. Even with the older hilux’s and 4Runners we got the 2lt, 3L and 5L which were also great diesel engines. You guys got the 22r’s I think? Which are still a good engine in their own respects. But I think there’s positives and negatives to this topic. America may have not got the trucks that us Aussies got, but the comprise is that Australia has insanely strict modification laws. You guys can run 37’s, 40’s etc with mostly no issues and still drive them on the road. We can’t. If you tried driving down a highway in Australia with huge tires you would be instantly pulled over, defected, your car put on a tow truck and undrivable until you fix the issues. We have to pass stringent engineering testing to get some things on our trucks and even then things like big tires can only be engineered on certain cars, 99% of them can’t get signed off due to the modification laws. For example, I drive a 91 hilux and the legal tires size I’m allowed to run is 31’s. Because our laws state when can only have 3 inches of lift between suspension and tires. And they came out with 29 inch tires from factory. I would much rather have a limited supply of trucks but be able to modify it how I want as opposed to having all the trucks and not being able to do much to them legally. I follow a lot of American KZbin 4x4 channels and I’ve always been jealous of what you guys can get away with

[@matthewhatton3637]

PS I'm waiting for more updates on that samurai. I can't wait to see that thing on the trail 🤙

[@thomassanio8745]

Incredibly well done Nate. After 80, “the lame Landcruiser”, so true! Only question is with the 80 series only having a 1 inch lift, is it a fair comparison? Then the longevity, durability question? Gotta give that to the 80. That said I was impressed what the Taco with IFS went thru😁👍

[@jiggyquinn5635]

Thank you 😊

[@skiff27]

Like your channel very much . I like the taco . I had Jeep xj and friends had Jeeps nothing but problems.

[@AntonLinusson]

9:30 I think you mean the other way around. It used to be that way, smaller grills and lower hoods which were more safe for pedestrains. Now they are large and upright for styling purposes.

[@billboeck4644]

Good video thank you for sharing , Very helpful.

[@hunter_pauley]

Love this comparison!

[@PhatboyHD88]

I think your rig was a much better all around rig than the rest of the Onx offroad rigs . You can camp oit of it , sleep in it , rock crawl it , just a much better all around rig.. unfortunately setting up camp blind folded was a more important feature than capability , Who knew 🤷🏻‍♂️😂😂

[@DirtLifestyle]

Lol, thank you! I agree. It's a bummer that the vehicles weren't even compared. It was all based on votes, not on performance 🤦‍♂️. But at least I can say I set up camp with a blind fold 🤷 lol

[@PhatboyHD88]

@@DirtLifestyle and you could remove shocks 😂😂😂 , sooo dumb ..🤷🏻‍♂️

[@jdtisme9100]

I'm glad to see Colt do well with a SUPER cool S10, but in my opinion the whole ONX "challenge" was an epic fail as a whole... Ian seems like the dork kid that tries too hard to be cool (but totally isn't!) in all the 90's teen movies. He's a super annoying dude.

[@thisisatest2576]

Get a rear axle out of an E-350 van. They are offset to the p-side 3.75". Dana 60Us, smooth bottoms. They come with 32 spline axles and the spindles are supposed to be bored large enough to accept 35 spline shafts.

[@jasonsmahoney]

As of 2024 we can now buy in the USA an Ineos Grenadier that is solid axle font and rear and triple locked from the factory. They are not cheap and I am not sure how hard it will be to get 39’s on it but its build with the same design brief as the old solid axle trucks from the 80’s and 90’s. Built for off-road first and to last forever. It just comes with a price tag well north of a new Rubicon.

[@guyderagisch4964]

In a 94 pickup. Dual cased, beadlocked on 38s. The older trucks have more ground clearance on 31s than just about anything out there. On 38s and rough 2.5-3in of lift the frame height is 27in at the frame and 21in at the t case cross member. It's a huge advantage vs today's vehicles. Where Jeep advertises 12in at the frame on 35s.

[@effinhaoli808]

Seat jackers for the Tacoma are actually really comfortable and give you a better view when wheeling ✌🏽

[@keithjerry1205]

Love to see a 3UR-FE dropped into the lexus

[@DirtLifestyle]

I really like the motor that's in it, but we will see how I feel after I add 1 tons 🤘

[@Cementtacothyme]

Get yourself some seat jackers for the taco. And the cruise control just hold it to avoid to use adaptive cruise control.