Hi All. I’m looking at buying a TD100 or a Prado 150 and I’m chasing info from people who have either owned both or directly observed these two vehicles operating on the same trip / in the exact same circumstances. I have driven both, but only for work and not in any real touring / towing / serious offroad conditions and haven’t driven the new 2.8 Prado yet. I have read a stack of forum info and opinions on both but would like to hear direct comparison / observations on:
I am prepared to sacrifice the extra fuel in the TD100 if it tows better in sand, is more comfortable, and more capable offroad but I am not convinced this is the case. Comments from owners or direct observation between these two vehicles in the same conditions would be greatly appreciated.
- Which one tows better in sand. The TD100 has more power, but the Prado is lighter and has traction control (some turn this off though? Some only turn off VSC and I get a sense many people don’t understand the difference). They have the same power to weight ratio and the same size tyre as standard. Think heavy camper trailer, soft sand – which one is more capable in this scenario?
- Ride comfort – I remember being really impressed by the ride comfort in the TD100, but it’s been 10 years since I drove one. The new Prados are pretty good also. I’m specifically interested in which one handles corrugation better, and the big sharp potholes and lumps. From my experience it’s the shorter, sharper harsh stuff where you notice the difference.
- General offroad capability. People tend to have this perception that the TD100 is a weapon offroad, but it’s hard to imagine it would outperform a Prado with TC, given the 100 has open diffs. Yes you can fit lockers but let’s ignore that initially.
- Space – I have three kids, so the middle row of seats will be full. Will they be cramped in a prado? Leg room? I suspect the 100 series cargo space is quite a bit bigger?
- Fuel economy. I hear such mixed results, but mods and cruising speed (100 vs 110) have such an impact it’s all a little meaningless unless you have long term experience with each. From what I’ve read, a stock standard TD100 could achieve around 11 or 12l/100km cruising at 110, but most seem to be closer to 13 or 14. A Prado should be about 2 or 3l/100km better. Thoughts?
I am prepared to sacrifice the extra fuel in the TD100 if it tows better in sand, is more comfortable, and more capable offroad but I am not convinced this is the case. Comments from owners or direct observation between these two vehicles in the same conditions would be greatly appreciated.
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