Buying a 90 Series petrol

[78luk Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close 78luk]

G'day,

Looking at buying my first Prado and just doing a bit of research. Just checking if I've missed anything.

So far:
Need good service history.
Make sure timing belt and water pump changed at 100k pre 2000 or 150k after 2000.
Avoid gas conversions- cracked heads.

Anything else? I'm use to Subarus and know which models to stay away from and have problems.

Are there any model Prados like this?

At the moment it is between a 2000 GXL petrol and a 2002 VX petrol which is a $1000 more. Is there much more to a VX apart from dual zone aircon and a wood grain dash?

Any advice greatly appreciated.

Cheers
Luke

[Leethal Advanced Member Find all posts View Profile Close Leethal]

Hi Luke,

The VX should have Traction control and ABS as standard as well as air bags for driver and passenger.
I have found the dual zone aircon a definite plus keeping the whole cabin cool, especially if you have rear seat passengers.

Personally I think the airbags are worth the extra by themselves let alone the traction control and ABS.

Lee

[Torrie 72 Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Torrie 72]

I'd second what Lee said. Don't discount gas conversions - if it's a good system set up correctly you shouldn't have problems with the heads and you'll appreciate the cheaper running costs. Make sure the 4wd transfer engages and disengages ok - particularly if it's been a town car only.
Cheers, Ben.

[glen_ep Addicted PP Member Find all posts View Profile Close glen_ep]

I wouldn't worry about ensuring the timing belt has been changed, because if it wasn't changed, factor that into the price and get the job done

[iantz Avid PP Poster! Find all posts View Profile Close iantz]

The VX has nicer interior in terms of seat coverings IMO. Not that you would care, but the missus might!