No convincing needed for fans of the Land Cruiser Prado
It is a fact that this model Toyota 4×4 SUV has been widely used around the world in areas which require durability, reliability and off road performance.
Its widespread use as the transport of choice for ‘military’ units and non-sanctioned armed ground forces in third world nations have served as a testament to the Land Cruiser’s reliability and toughness.
It was created as a competitor to previous very popular off-road vehicles like the Land Rover Defender and the Jeep Wrangler.
Did you know that some time in 1996 Toyota launched this Land Cruiser Prado (even used in a 007 movie ‘No Time To Die’) in Malaysia and it was an instant hit in Sabah and Sarawak due to the rough terrain and not so nice road system in both Borneo states.
It was launched with two engines which was a torque filled diesel and a slightly lethargic (in todays standards) 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and both came with a 159-litre fuel tank, allowing the Prado to carry more fuel to go further than even its big-brother, the 100 Series Land Cruiser. This 2.7L petrol when new will deliver about 21 miles to a gallon which for todays standards is thirsty.
Its popularity in Semenanjung Malaysia was more with JKR engineers, farmers and traders as their preferred premium vehicle at the time. However, there were some city dwellers who loved its rugged outlook, high riding position and then considered ‘powerful’ engine.
The 2.7L petrol version offered seating for up to 7 passengers, thanks to third-row seating that conveniently folded up to the sides (at the cost of cargo space).
So, when we saw this Prado 2.7L petrol unit for sale, it caught our attention as it is still in very original condition and the seller has mentioned that it still retains almost 95% of its factory original features, accessories and look.
This is indeed a very rare unit and one for the collectors. However, its asking price might be a little on the high side, but with the promise of it being almost all original, it should be considered as a worthwhile buy as you do not need to restore is …… which can be very expensive to embark on today.
Just a new coat of paint and new upholstery can cost RM6k to RM12k depending on your needs. So, if there are ‘very used’ units in the classifieds for RM19k to RM22k, the RM34k negotiable asking price for this unit is not that bad. Yes?
So, you might ask about maintenance. Well, this 2.7L petrol engine is very robust generally simpler and require less specialized knowledge for maintenance compared to the diesel engine, making them easier to work on and for parts sourcing.
Before buying any used 4×4, have a mechanic inspect the vehicle to ensure it’s not been abused with serious off-road drives, serious accident damage, flood damage and free of major issues.
If the unit has uneven wear on tires is not a good sign and is either an indication of hard driving or wheel alignment that is incorrect, either through worn suspension components or simple wear and tear.
When getting a used Prado inspected, ask the mechanic to check the condition of the front and rear differential oil. Milky looking oil indicates water contamination, which also suggests the car has either been used for numerous river crossings or has been stuck in a river for some time.
The other big giveaway of a 4×4 vehicle that has been used off-road is one fitted with mud tires, raised suspension and a winch up front. This unit is clean and in its showroom look which means it is well worth a look.
Remember, it is a 2001 model with 275,000km driven so there will be wear and tear maintenance coming up.
Set aside RM4k for possible maintenance after purchase just to be on the safe side. Items like alternator, ac compressor, brakes, suspension and mountings might need to be changed in the coming months.
INFO Provided By Seller: Well kept standard original condition with no repairs required. Just buy & drive!
Year of make & reg: 2001
ODO: 274,900km
- Smooth & strong 2.7 Petrol Engine with properly working 4-speed automatic transmission.
- 4WD operation in proper working order.
- Front & Rear individually controlled Aircond system in proper working order.
- All 4 power windows in proper working order.
- Original Enkei Wheels with new Falken Wildtrak tires.
- Meter cluster all in working order including gyro/clinometer displays.
- Original Fujitsu Ten audio system (CD & Cassette player requires repair), FM receiver is fine so I use a FM transmitter to play music from Bluetooth/USB/mSD.
- Original 7-seats configuration with clean interior.
- Custom fitted coil mats.
- Original Cobra alarm system.
- All electronics & mechanicals including switches are in working order.
- Car has been regularly running and periodically maintained. No off-roading or water-wading done.
- This car would make a worthy Landcruiser collection due to its originality.
Asking price RM34,000 negotiable upon viewing of the car.
