Mercedes G class ute VS 79 series Landcruiser.

[bob10]

From TRAYON. No comparison, really. G class wins hands down. And yes, it costs a lot. But so does the Landcruiser to get it up to spec. Land Rover not in the hunt.



Mercedes G class ute VS 79 Series Landcruiser: Apples vs Apples | Trayon Campers (https://www.trayon.com/blog/mercedes-g-class-ute-vs-79-landcruiser/)

[Arch]

From TRAYON. No comparison, really. G class wins hands down. And yes, it costs a lot. But so does the Landcruiser to get it up to spec. Land Rover not in the hunt.

Mercedes G class ute VS 79 Series Landcruiser: Apples vs Apples | Trayon Campers (https://www.trayon.com/blog/mercedes-g-class-ute-vs-79-landcruiser/)

That is cherry picking at its best. The owner of the g is trying very hard to validate their purchase.

[Rolly]

Went MTB riding at Daisy Hill and met one of the Rangers fencing and he had the G class as a work truck. Had a discussion regarding the reliability and he stated they have stopped using the G class in remote locations as the engines sensors(dust sensors) are too sensitive and the car is continually going into limp mode, (even though they had retrofitted secondary air filters).
He said the Defenders and even the new Pumas are streets ahead in reliability terms(as far as Limp mode ).
I wonder how the new Defender will go, particularly with reference to all the sensors not only for engine but also suspension etc.

[oka374]

We spoke to a couple of Qld NP rangers on our last trip and they would love to have there Toyota's back due to the G's poor performance in the rough stuff, going into limp mode and general lack of reliability.

[trout1105]

From TRAYON. No comparison, really. G class wins hands down. And yes, it costs a lot. But so does the Landcruiser to get it up to spec. Land Rover not in the hunt.



Mercedes G class ute VS 79 Series Landcruiser: Apples vs Apples | Trayon Campers (https://www.trayon.com/blog/mercedes-g-class-ute-vs-79-landcruiser/)

A Bog standard 79 series is "Up to spec" and it doesn't let you down in the bush straight from the showroom floor, The g Wagon however is prone to going into limp mode and the shockkies tend to get destroyed over corrugations.
What a "Tosser" write up.

[DeanoH]

At the end of the day it's really simple ..................

3.0 litre Benz V6 with its neck wrung = 135 KW @3800 rpm and 400 Nm @ 1600 - 2000 rpm

4.5 litre Toyo V8 doing it easy = 151 KW @ 2400 rpm and 430 Nm @ 1200 rpm

Lay down misere really, for serious load carrying /towing the Benz doesn't cut the mustard and when you consider its appalling performance in Army testing, why would you bother ?

My first impression on reading this article was " how much is Benz paying for this 'impartial' write-up ? " Certainly an excellent tradies/urban 4WD'ers ute for those with more money than sense, but a serious contender for the Toyo V8 .................... (can't get the ROLF animation to work) :)

Had an interesting discussion with some Vic forestry people after the Vic government decided to replace the Toyo V8's with Benz's with all the gear including ROPS/FOPS/water etc and coming in at just shy of 4.5 tonne. Great for comfort but not as good (comparatively) when it came to serious hard work and absolutely useless if towing was required (spray units, tools, equipment etc.). The big unresolved question was "who copped what kick back" considering the Benz's cost more than twice that of the Toyos they replaced ?

Deano :)

[bob10]

Went MTB riding at Daisy Hill and met one of the Rangers fencing and he had the G class as a work truck. Had a discussion regarding the reliability and he stated they have stopped using the G class in remote locations as the engines sensors(dust sensors) are too sensitive and the car is continually going into limp mode, (even though they had retrofitted secondary air filters).
He said the Defenders and even the new Pumas are streets ahead in reliability terms(as far as Limp mode ).
I wonder how the new Defender will go, particularly with reference to all the sensors not only for engine but also suspension etc.

Interesting to see how the ADF is getting on with the Mercedes. What interests me is this is the second independent report on the G class I have read that sings its praises. Always good to talk to the man using the vehicle.

[scarry]

It just shows again why Toyota well and truely lead the sales race when it comes to commercial vehicles.

[trout1105]

Interesting to see how the ADF is getting on with the Mercedes. What interests me is this is the second independent report on the G class I have read that sings its praises. Always good to talk to the man using the vehicle.

Maybe if you read this it may make you think a little differently [thumbsupbig]

https://www.caradvice.com.au/131418/mercedes-benz-g-class-broken-by-the-australian-outback/

[bob10]

Maybe if you read this it may make you think a little differently [thumbsupbig]

https://www.caradvice.com.au/131418/mercedes-benz-g-class-broken-by-the-australian-outback/

What I get from that is the vehicle with military spec suspension had no trouble, the other six had to replace their shocks. The recommendation from that was that all G class were to be fitted with military spec suspension. I'm not an advocate for the G class, it's just that reading reports on it , it seems an ideal remote travel vehicle. Haven't heard about the dust problems, but have heard about the hi-lux dust problems. And surely the different axle lengths of the 79 class must cause problems in the sand. All this of course ignores the cost of both vehicles.

[trout1105]

it's just that reading reports on it , it seems an ideal remote travel vehicle

Are you willing to wager nearly 140k of your own money on that assumption?

[bob10]

Are you willing to wager nearly 140k of your own money on that assumption?


Of course not. But I can dream. After watching Andrew St Pierre White's opinion of the new defender, I might even dream about it. He's not everybody's cup of tea, but he makes a hell of a lot of sense about the defender.


YouTube (https://youtu.be/utZRGNCeZFM)

[trout1105]

Well I put my money where my mouth is and actually bought a 79 series and so far it has not only lived up to my expectations it has exceeded them, I don't have to "Dream" about it[bigwhistle][biggrin]

[shack]

Interesting to see how the ADF is getting on with the Mercedes. What interests me is this is the second independent report on the G class I have read that sings its praises. Always good to talk to the man using the vehicle.I was actually talking to a group of of mechanics that work on them not far from home, when they were all having lunch while moving to the next stop, they all agreed that the g had its good points over the land rovers, they also all agreed that reliability was it's Achilles heel, commenting that they have never had so many vehicles having to be trailered back home for them to work on, as they weren't fixable out on the field.

That "news" article/review , and others similar have been floating around the internet for some time and they are clearly biased and poorly researched.
If you actually want to know what they're like, best to look elsewhere for info.

Cheers
James

[bob10]

Well I put my money where my mouth is and actually bought a 79 series and so far it has not only lived up to my expectations it has exceeded them, I don't have to "Dream" about it[bigwhistle][biggrin]

Well, you're lucky then. Some of us have responsibilities and families to support, and issues to deal with that means the best we can do for the moment is dream about it. However I hope to gather as much info as I can, so that if I can turn my dreams into reality one day I will be well informed to make a decision. I'm not going to sit in a corner like an old man and winge about my lot. BTW, the Mazda BT50 and the Isuzu are top of the list to replace my D2 at the moment. The old girl has served me well, but 20 years old, with 425,000 kms on it, I'm not going to take it on the Gibb river road any time soon, it'd shake to pieces. Having said that, I have become quite attached to her. I had considered buying a defender 130, but I don't have the time or the money to sort out the inevitable problems to get it up to a standard where I would be happy to take it remote touring. And, anyway, as I'm not a spring chicken any more, remote touring might just be another dream. BUT, I'm not ready for Eventide yet.

[bob10]

I was actually talking to a group of of mechanics that work on them not far from home, when they were all having lunch while moving to the next stop, they all agreed that the g had its good points over the land rovers, they also all agreed that reliability was it's Achilles heel, commenting that they have never had so many vehicles having to be trailered back home for them to work on, as they weren't fixable out on the field.

That "news" article/review , and others similar have been floating around the internet for some time and they are clearly biased and poorly researched.
If you actually want to know what they're like, best to look elsewhere for info.

Cheers
James

I think I'm in the best place for info on the internet, if the right people post. The knowledge on AULRO is incredible, and usually reliable.

[Saitch]

BUT, I'm not ready for Eventide yet.

You'll be right ,Bob. My sister in law works there. Just mention my name[thumbsupbig]

[shack]

I think I'm in the best place for info on the internet, if the right people post. The knowledge on AULRO is incredible, and usually reliable.That's essentially what I was talking about, some reviews are clearly paid comment,

like one a few years ago comparing the amarok to the hilux,
the Amarok was given the best review when you read the individual write ups,
but when it got to the last page with all the vehicles from 1-10 , the Hilux won because it had made the most changes since it's last release! so all it really should have won was "most improved" and clearly it needed it, as it still wasn't as good as the amarok..

Cheers
James

[Saitch]

I reckon Providence comes into play with remote touring (whatever "Remote Touring" means these days) as when two mates of mine, one in a new 79 and the other in the last issue Defender, completed the Canning in June '18.

The 79 had several issues, albeit fixable on route by two capable, prepared blokes with a bit of ingenuity, and the Defender sailed through. If they did the trip again, who's to say the roles wouldn't be reversed.
I've come across "Locals" out that way in old Magnas and Falcons on tracks that some Off Road pundits would class as rough.

[trout1105]

Well, you're lucky then. Some of us have responsibilities and families to support, and issues to deal with that means the best we can do for the moment is dream about it. However I hope to gather as much info as I can, so that if I can turn my dreams into reality one day I will be well informed to make a decision. I'm not going to sit in a corner like an old man and winge about my lot. BTW, the Mazda BT50 and the Isuzu are top of the list to replace my D2 at the moment. The old girl has served me well, but 20 years old, with 425,000 kms on it, I'm not going to take it on the Gibb river road any time soon, it'd shake to pieces. Having said that, I have become quite attached to her. I had considered buying a defender 130, but I don't have the time or the money to sort out the inevitable problems to get it up to a standard where I would be happy to take it remote touring. And, anyway, as I'm not a spring chicken any more, remote touring might just be another dream. BUT, I'm not ready for Eventide yet.

I agree that research is an absolute Must before handing over your hard eared quids, The secret to GOOD research is being able to winnow out the BS from the facts Especially when it comes to cars/4WD's.
Also it is Never a Good idea to buy the first of a NEW line of vehicles because these are usually the ones that the Public pay for the R and D to fix the teething problems.
You may like the G wagon but you are putting a hell of a lot of faith in some half arsed and biased review and $140K is a bloody Lot of money to risk Also where is the dealer backup and service for these?
The 79 series for me was a No brainer for me as I have previously driven them, I had talked to people that have owned them for a number of years and the service and backup is Australia wide.
I did my "Due Diligence" before buying a 4WD ute that would tow and also carry heavy loads and the 79 series was head and shoulders above the rest of the crowd as far as I was concerned and the G wagon hasn't been able to sway that opinion.

I still have my D2a V8 and it is much Nicer to drive that the 79 series and it is my daily driver But it cannot possibly match what the Toyota is capable of and what I bought it for.

[scarry]

That's essentially what I was talking about, some reviews are clearly paid comment,

like one a few years ago comparing the amarok to the hilux,
the Amarok was given the best review when you read the individual write ups,
but when it got to the last page with all the vehicles from 1-10 , the Hilux won because it had made the most changes since it's last release! so all it really should have one was "most improved" and clearly it needed it, as it still want as good as the amarok..

Cheers
James

Just like the reviews on the vans,the Tojo is often sits with a rating around middle of the pack,or less,but 7 out of 10 sold are toyota.
The sales speak for themselves,as do the Hi lux sales.

Many people knock them,but if you don't live with one day in,day out,they have no idea what they are actually like.

[Saitch]

I still have my D2a V8 and it is much Nicer to drive that the 79 series and it is my daily driver But it cannot possibly match what the Toyota is capable of and what I bought it for.

Of course the D2 won't match the 79. My D3 can't match my 75 Series 'tilly for intended use i.e. having a tray and load carrying, but other than that, the D3 is more economical, comfortable, powerful, better off road etc.

I have to agree that there isn't really anything other than a Tojo that I'd look at if I had to replace my 'tilly although, after so many rellies and friends buying new vehicles and the results over the years, I have never bought and will never buy a brand new vehicle.

[bob10]

I agree that research is an absolute Must before handing over your hard eared quids, The secret to GOOD research is being able to winnow out the BS from the facts Especially when it comes to cars/4WD's.
Also it is Never a Good idea to buy the first of a NEW line of vehicles because these are usually the ones that the Public pay for the R and D to fix the teething problems.
You may like the G wagon but you are putting a hell of a lot of faith in some half arsed and biased review and $140K is a bloody Lot of money to risk Also where is the dealer backup and service for these?
The 79 series for me was a No brainer for me as I have previously driven them, I had talked to people that have owned them for a number of years and the service and backup is Australia wide.
I did my "Due Diligence" before buying a 4WD ute that would tow and also carry heavy loads and the 79 series was head and shoulders above the rest of the crowd as far as I was concerned and the G wagon hasn't been able to sway that opinion.

I still have my D2a V8 and it is much Nicer to drive that the 79 series and it is my daily driver But it cannot possibly match what the Toyota is capable of and what I bought it for.

I was never going to buy a G Wagon. Like Toad in Wind in the Willows, I just like it because it is new, bright and shiny. A dirty old Perentie would keep me happy. But SWMBO needs creature comforts, and a noisy dusty rattley old Perentie , with a swag, doesn't cut it. Although it would fit my character fairly well.

[Tote]

I was actually talking to a group of of mechanics that work on them not far from home, when they were all having lunch while moving to the next stop, they all agreed that the g had its good points over the land rovers, they also all agreed that reliability was it's Achilles heel, commenting that they have never had so many vehicles having to be trailered back home for them to work on, as they weren't fixable out on the field.

That "news" article/review , and others similar have been floating around the internet for some time and they are clearly biased and poorly researched.
If you actually want to know what they're like, best to look elsewhere for info.

Cheers
James

Interestingly that same remark could apply to any vehicle marketed in the last 15 years. When you are talking to a bunch of mechanics that are used to fixing mechanical vehicles that rarely need component swaps or new sensors to keep them going compared to a modern vehicle which is probably more reliable but when it does break, the fix relies on electronic diagnostic equipment to properly troubleshoot and then the training to do that troubleshooting in the field is probably not given to the field service guy then the only alternative is to truck/trailer it home to base.

A similar comparison could be made with NRMA road service in the 1970s vs today. In the 1970s the NRMA mechanic would find your blocked fuel filter or your points that had worn closed and fix them on the side of the road. Today they are not much more than tow truck drivers.

I'm not sure that there is much difference between the merc and the Landcruiser in this respect, they are both electronic vehicles and if a sensor fails in the field in either vehicle unless its a known or common problem then its the tilt tray ride of shame for either.

Regards,
Tote

[bob10]

I reckon Providence comes into play with remote touring (whatever "Remote Touring" means these days) as when two mates of mine, one in a new 79 and the other in the last issue Defender, completed the Canning in June '18.

The 79 had several issues, albeit fixable on route by two capable, prepared blokes with a bit of ingenuity, and the Defender sailed through. If they did the trip again, who's to say the roles wouldn't be reversed.
I've come across "Locals" out that way in old Magnas and Falcons on tracks that some Off Road pundits would class as rough.

I look at remote as being as far away from other humans as I can get, but still be in a part of Aus. that could be regarded as nice, if that makes any sense. I can live with snakes, crocs, buffalo, mud, dust, sand. As long as there's a cold beer and a waterhole to swim in at the end of the day. And fish. There must be fish. Crayfish and abalone in TAS., King George whiting and sand crabs in SA., anywhere up the coast from Rocky [ Stanage Bay ,as long as they don't bitumen the road in to allow the crowd in, like they did 1770] Some humans have me reaching for my old 303, after a while . Luckily for me I gave it away years ago . I know what you mean about the locals and their vehicles . Travelling down the Tanami track years ago there were dead vehicles scattered along the track. Toyotas, Commodores and Fords, made up the numbers. Many had been scavenged for bits and pieces , sort of like bush spares .

One memorable time we left the escarpment north of Kings Canyon , drove down the track to the Canyon floor, where we saw a busted Ford, with a few empty beer cans alongside. As we drove along the floor, every now & then lay a small pile of tinnies, until we came up to a large pile of empty green cans, and empty cartons close by. They must have carried the cartons , drinking cans as they walked, until it all became too much, and they propped and drank the lot. Just about says it all, really. Didn't see any one, they must have reached home eventually.

[Arapiles]

According to some reports I read the G class goes into 2WD in reverse, which is bit of an issue if you’re, for example, trying to reverse back up a difficult slope.

[RANDLOVER]

Doesn't make sense, surely it would still be driving thru the transfer case/low box, maybe they mean the lockers come off in reverse? Would've been even better if they made it like that other great German off roader, the Unimog that had multiple reverse gears/speeds so then one can really reverse out of trouble!

[bob10]

Let's talk about the Ford Ranger. From unsealed 4x4

Ford Ranger 3.2L common problems and solutions - Unsealed 4X4 - Issue 067 (https://magazine.unsealed4x4.com.au/en_US/15681/221613/ford_ranger_3.2l_common_problems_and_solutions.htm l)

[inside]

At the end of the day it's really simple ..................

3.0 litre Benz V6 with its neck wrung = 135 KW @3800 rpm and 400 Nm @ 1600 - 2000 rpm

4.5 litre Toyo V8 doing it easy = 151 KW @ 2400 rpm and 430 Nm @ 1200 rpm


Why is this "neck wrung"? This exact Merc engine in different tunes puts out 195kw and 620Nm. In this spec it is in a low tune because reliability. These engines have been in Sprinter vans for years, some achieving over 500K miles before major issues. Merc give it a 3 year 200K warranty which says it's a commercial vehicle designed to do high kms.

The reality is the G is just simply better at a lot of things. Payload is much better, that can not be denied. It's why forestry are using them, it's cause they have to. The LC just can't handle the weight with the water they need to carry.

There's also issues with them like brake lines cracking and dusting of engines both which Merc have accepted and redesigned parts. At least they got the axle widths the same size.

[trout1105]

Why is this "neck wrung"? This exact Merc engine in different tunes puts out 195kw and 620Nm. In this spec it is in a low tune because reliability. These engines have been in Sprinter vans for years, some achieving over 500K miles before major issues. Merc give it a 3 year 200K warranty which says it's a commercial vehicle designed to do high kms.

The reality is the G is just simply better at a lot of things. Payload is much better, that can not be denied. It's why forestry are using them, it's cause they have to. The LC just can't handle the weight with the water they need to carry.

There's also issues with them like brake lines cracking and dusting of engines both which Merc have accepted and redesigned parts. At least they got the axle widths the same size.

The Tojo V8 is detuned massively as well Because these engines with an aggressive chip/tune are freaking awesome as well But we are not talking about that we are talking about the engines as they come out of the factory and the Tojo wins hands down there.
Also where is the Nation wide dealer network for the G wagon? and just how many mechanics are familiar with this truck so that you can get it fixed just about anywhere?
Again the Tojo wins hands down[bigwhistle]
Don't even go down the resale value road because you know exactly what happens there[biggrin]

[DazzaTD5]

IMHO...
Go remote travel in a Land Cruiser (79 series) and the only thing you are NOT thinking about is if you are going to get there and back, because its pretty well a given. The first 100K in a Cruiser overall is going to be more trouble free than just about any other "new" vehicle.
As someone has already mentioned, drive and live with a Land Cruiser everyday for work purposes and you soon realise its a good bit of kit.

Apart from woeful unreliability (like so many other Mercedes) you would have to put up with poor customer service.
At that price I'd rather have 2 Land Cruisers. (or 3 Defenders?? [bighmmm] )

[inside]

Cruisers are good if you don't need to carry 2 Ton, don't want axles the same width, don't like coils, don't like a 200K warranty, don't want a walk on bonnet, don't want an auto, don't want pre wiring for a winch among many other benefits a G has over a cruiser.

When you talk remote service it's getting better. Dargo has service agents for the G, In South Australia it is getting more remote, this on the back of forestry using them. QLD is now using the G for remote ambulance services so remote mechanics will have to skill up. Then there's the army, knowledge will grow because it has to.

Each to their own, as long as you're out there enjoying the bush, that's what matters.

[scarry]

Here we go again,for those that live day in and day out with a Toyota would know,the reliability,fit and finish,resale, over the European stuff is no comparison.

And yes i have had both for well over 20yrs,including a fleet of Tojo's,so would have a pretty good idea how they both roll.

Now i will hide under a rock.....

And by the way,5yrs,unlimited K's,private use,and 5yrs,160K,commercial, isn't a bad warranty.
Not that it will be needed.

Just my 2cents worth[biggrin]

[inside]

Here we go again,for those that live day in and day out with a Toyota would know,the reliability,fit and finish,resale, over the European stuff is no comparison.

So if you own a Toyota then you can speak authoritatively on European cars? How's your G going? Bag of junk with bad resale I'm guessing.

It amazes me people talk about fixing issues like the rear track, spending thousands and everyone laps it up like it's great.

[scarry]

So if you own a Toyota then you can speak authoritatively on European cars? How's your G going? Bag of junk with bad resale I'm guessing.

It amazes me people talk about fixing issues like the rear track, spending thousands and everyone laps it up like it's great.

Your missing the point,have a look at Dazza's post above as well.

Facts.

Oh,by the way,how is your Toyota going?

[inside]

I'm speaking to the specs of the Toyota, I don't have one because they have weird diffs, leaf springs and a manual gearbox.

The G is new, I guess in 10 years we'll know if they are as bad as people say.

[rar110]

It will be interesting to see what other changes Toyota make when they drop tdv8. Apparently the changes incl the option of an auto.

[101RRS]

The G is new, I guess in 10 years we'll know if they are as bad as people say.

The G wagen has been around since 1979 and in Australia from the early 1980s.

[Saitch]

C'mon, someone on here must have a 4.2 Patrol 'tilly?:firedevil:

[inside]

C'mon, someone on here must have a 4.2 Patrol 'tilly?:firedevil:They are too busy installing new radiators to keep their engines cool.

[trout1105]

They are too busy installing new radiators to keep their engines cool.

Are we talking about 4.2's or D2's [bigwhistle]
I had a Nissan with a 4.2 in it when I bought my D2a and I gave it to one of my sons.
Since then he has had to put new tyres on it and a new battery, I on the other hand have spent about 20k getting my D2a up to scratch.
I am pretty certain that rust will stop that Nissan Way before the engine does.

[DazzaTD5]

The Land Cruiser has been in Australia since, what, the 50's? or 60's (no, I dont know the exact year).
Why anyone EXCEPT the Aust Gov would bother dealing with a company that is known for exceptionally bad customer service and support.
Thats right, nobody except the Aust Gov use the Merc. (no cash under the table there boys [bigrolf] )
It was mentioned here a few times and has been mentioned a few times outside of AULRO, the Merc G is often on the back of a truck after taking a dump in the middle of nowhere. Luckily for the Australian Armed forces the Merc really is nothing more than a training vehicle.
No use having a 2 ton payload if its always taking a dump.
Again two Land Cruisers each with a ton, you get there and back.
I spent many a year working on that Merc V6 diesel (Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD 2005 - 2010 aprox), not a bad engine but its not without its faults.

On the Nissan side, the TD42 was another simplistic tough vehicle.
After spending many years up north driving in very remote places for work, there really is not many vehicles I would rely on to get me there and back again on a daily basis.

[inside]

Why anyone EXCEPT the Aust Gov would bother dealing with a company that is known for exceptionally bad customer service and support.
Thats right, nobody except the Aust Gov use the Merc. (no cash under the table there boys [bigrolf] )

Countries using the G class for military purposes. Bit more than "nobody".

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191011/652ae31dc0012c57be9544430cb8274c.jpg

[trout1105]

Put up a map of countries that use the 79 series [bigwhistle]

[DazzaTD5]

Gee my bad.... sorry I didnt clarify.... In-Australia-who-else-uses-Mercedes-besides-our-woeful-excuse-for-Government.

Mining?
power generation?
exploration?
oil gas?
construction?

[DazzaTD5]

Put up a map of countries that use the 79 series [bigwhistle]

that's easy, its called planet Earth [tonguewink]

Land Rover explored it first and Toyota kept going back [bigrolf][bigrolf][bigrolf]

[scarry]

Gee my bad.... sorry I didnt clarify.... In-Australia-who-else-uses-Mercedes-besides-our-woeful-excuse-for-Government.

Mining?
power generation?
exploration?
oil gas?
construction?

Heaps of Govt departments in Qld don’t use them either,Police,Emergency Services,Dept of Forestry,Dept of primary industries,etc,etc.

But they use heaps of 70 Series,76,79.

[inside]

Heaps of Govt departments in Qld don’t use them either,Police,Emergency Services,Dept of Forestry,Dept of primary industries,etc,etc.

G-Wagons rolling out for fire operations on parks and forests - The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory (http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2016/8/31/gwagons-rolling-out-for-fire-operations-on-parks-and-forests)

New all-terrain 4WD ambulance allow emergency services to go off road - The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory (http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2018/11/7/new-allterrain-4wd-ambulance-allow-emergency-services-to-go-off-road)

[V8Ian]

You'll be right ,Bob. My sister in law works there. Just mention my name[thumbsupbig]
It might get you a warm bedpan, on the other hand.........:eek2::eek2::eek2:

[scarry]

G-Wagons rolling out for fire operations on parks and forests - The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory (http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2016/8/31/gwagons-rolling-out-for-fire-operations-on-parks-and-forests)

New all-terrain 4WD ambulance allow emergency services to go off road - The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory (http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2018/11/7/new-allterrain-4wd-ambulance-allow-emergency-services-to-go-off-road)

Ok,i stand to be corrected,but thats 7 out of literally hundreds of the other,and one is under trial.

Some of those 7 will probably replace other types of vehicles,not necessarily the Tojo's.

Lets see how they go over the next few years.......

Seems the private sector isn't using them at all.

[oka374]

We get quite a few ADF military vehicles coming to town as it is smack bang in the middle of a route to use for training drivers new to different vehicles. As I said in an earlier post we've also run into a few groups on our travels and us having an ex RAAF vehicle they often come over for a chat.
Initially when speaking to the ADF mechanics the G wagons were tagged "not to be used in any offensive/defensive or humanitarian situations or shipped outside Oz" due to the ADF staff not having access to diagnostic systems as Mercedes retained the only access for X amount of time, not sure whether that has expired yet or diluted a bit but for the first couple of years at least any problems the vehicle went back to Mercedes. They had a couple that died or went into limp nearly every trip. When loaded a lack of grunt was the biggest complaint and reliability wasn't the staffs worry as the just got another one. My question was who made the decision to buy vehicles that were obviously unfit for use with such conditions with retaining diagnostics etc. If they give so much trouble when brand new the chances of them working after 30 years like the Landrovers do is not good, which I guess is the way the whole automotive world has gone.

[bob10]

It might get you a warm bedpan, on the other hand.........:eek2::eek2::eek2:


My wife worked at Eventide for 20 years , with the cleaning contractors. The nursing staff deserve a medal, for the job they do. I have a friend living there , John, played rugby for University, hooker. Played a couple of games for QLD., was responsible for starting rugby in Cairns, years ago. Co ordinated the British Lions tour of North Qld, again years ago. Top bloke, what he doesn't know about Qld rugby is not worth knowing. Worked for the Qld Government, indigenous housing. During an inspection tour of Torres strait housing , picked up a bug in his spine, paralysed his legs, had to have them cut off. When the LNP was in power they decided to remove all residents, and have Eventide as a rehab. facility full time. Well, the grey Army of Sandgate protested, as best we good, it wasn't a violent protest, and we didn't lock ourselves to anything [ we would have lost the keys] but the LNP were kicked out, [ not because of us, but we will claim it as a victory for old farts] and old mate remained where he wanted to be. Having said that, I haven't seen him for a while, I'll drop in this weekend. I guess that's about off topic as you can get, over and out.

[bob10]

Back on topic. Alan Whiting, from Outback travel Australia, tells it as he sees it. Independent , can't be bought. This is his assessment of the G Wagon, warts and all.


Mercedes-Benz G-Class (https://www.outbacktravelaustralia.com.au/buyers-guide-wagons-large/mercedes-benz-g-class)

[bob10]

And, to be fair, his assessment of the 70 series.

Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series (https://www.outbacktravelaustralia.com.au/buyers-guide-utes-large/toyota-landcruiser)

[trout1105]

Back on topic. Alan Whiting, from Outback travel Australia, tells it as he sees it. Independent , can't be bought. This is his assessment of the G Wagon, warts and all.


Mercedes-Benz G-Class (https://www.outbacktravelaustralia.com.au/buyers-guide-wagons-large/mercedes-benz-g-class)

Nothing whatsoever in that report to make me want to trade my 79 series in on a g wagon.

[bob10]

Nothing whatsoever in that report to make me want to trade my 79 series in on a g wagon.

Did I say there was?

[Saitch]

New all-terrain 4WD ambulance allow emergency services to go off road - The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory (http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2018/11/7/new-allterrain-4wd-ambulance-allow-emergency-services-to-go-off-road)

Looks like the S-E Qld, AULRO organised, day outings will be forced to look for a different source for "Vehicle Recovery" training on an ambulance ? [bigsad]

I can understand this measure being taken by the government, as the Toyota version was a classic case of "Not Fit For Purpose." Well, in my opinion from an experience in the scrub.

[DazzaTD5]

*Manufacturers such as Mercedes commonly do the restricted access to diagnostic tools, manuals, or limited manuals, and certain work having to be done by technicians. This falls into line with poor service and support for customers. "premium brand" now days simple means unreliable, poorly assembled, poor customer support and expensive to repair. With the exception being Lexus.

*Toyota on the other hands will supply genuine full diagnostic equipment, full diagnostic manuals, repair manuals, other procedures, updates for repair and the prices for such equipment isnt even over the top.

*One of the great things with Jaguar Land Rover is being able to get access to all the technical data, repair manuals etc. Its access is only limited to how much you want to pay for the info. As in you can get access to one model for a day or all models for a year.

*The Perentie has been in service for over 30 years to date. I really doubt any other vehicle is going to achieve this.

[rick130]

FWIW a mate of a mate works for Qld Nat Parks and uses both the G and 79 Series at work.
There's certain tracks the G's overheat on that don't phase the 79-Series.
Just saying, and he loves his German vehicles, has a few 2002's kicking around, and 'rok as a daily driver

[SpudHeadTed]

And, to be fair, his assessment of the 70 series.

Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series (https://www.outbacktravelaustralia.com.au/buyers-guide-utes-large/toyota-landcruiser)

The litany of problems highlighted in this article makes the previous Defender sound virtually problem free! ...There’s no way on earth I’d buy a V8 cruiser! What a hotch-potch of bandaid Non-solutions!

Land Rover Defender 2020 (https://www.outbacktravelaustralia.com.au/buyers-guide-wagons-large/land-rover-defender-110-wagon) (read down for previous models)

If you read these two articles in full now, the hype over 70 series compared to Defender at least since 2012, has been so over blown it’s ridiculous. Defender was clearly a far superior vehicle (except adapter shaft) and an absolute bargain as well ($50k)!

Lets’s hope the new Defender is similarly problem free. [thumbsupbig] (the price was never going to remain that good).

[bob10]

The litany of problems highlighted in this article makes the previous Defender sound virtually problem free! ...There’s no way on earth I’d buy a V8 cruiser! What a hotch-potch of bandaid Non-solutions!

Land Rover Defender 2020 (https://www.outbacktravelaustralia.com.au/buyers-guide-wagons-large/land-rover-defender-110-wagon) (read down for previous models)

If you read these two articles in full now, the hype over 70 series compared to Defender at least since 2012, has been so over blown it’s ridiculous. Defender was clearly a far superior vehicle (except adapter shaft) and an absolute bargain as well ($50k)!

Lets’s hope the new Defender is similarly problem free. [thumbsupbig] (the price was never going to remain that good).

Andrew St Pierre White has done not a review , but commentary on the hype VS the reality of the 2020 defender, and it's not what I thought he might say. He says the new defender will be the most capable 4x4 off the shelf in the World at the moment. If only I could afford one, and the other reality for me is, I have trouble working out my mobile phone, let alone a whizzbang 21st century vehicle.

YouTube (https://youtu.be/utZRGNCeZFM)

[trout1105]

Andrew St Pierre White has done not a review , but commentary on the hype VS the reality of the 2020 defender, and it's not what I thought he might say. He says the new defender will be the most capable 4x4 off the shelf in the World at the moment. If only I could afford one, and the other reality for me is, I have trouble working out my mobile phone, let alone a whizzbang 21st century vehicle.

YouTube (https://youtu.be/utZRGNCeZFM)

Capability and Reliability are two totally different things and this is why there are FAR more Toyota 4WD's on Australian roads and tracks than any other brand.
I Love my Landrovers but Seriously a Defender (including the new D6/Defender) isn't in the same league as a 79 series V8 in the bush.

[bob10]

Capability and Reliability are two totally different things and this is why there are FAR more Toyota 4WD's on Australian roads and tracks than any other brand.
I Love my Landrovers but Seriously a Defender (including the new D6/Defender) isn't in the same league as a 79 series V8 in the bush.


I'd have to go with you on that, as I've never owned a 79 series V8. For the sake of clarity, can you list the area's where the 79 series is so much better than the defender. I think we can leave the new defender out of this, until some one actually buys one , and takes it bush. As for why there are more Toyotas out bush than land rovers, and I'm talking Discovery here, is the fact that land rover dealers and qualified mechanics were/ are few and far between when you leave the cities. And it took buyers some time to come to grips with the foibles of the discovery. Earlier defenders and series vehicles were basic and easy to work on, the only gripe was the low powered engine. However whereas the Toyota mantra was " give it the berries ", Land Rover Series and defender drivers had to learn how to actually drive their vehicles off road. So, the old catch phrase " Land Rovers, turning drivers into mechanics " should have added to it " And educating those drivers to be capable off road drivers, without ruining the environment". Just my thoughts, of course, not meant to start an argument, just an informed discussion.

I doubt very much that there is any where in this country that a Toyota has been, where a series, or defender Land rover has not . Add to that the stories of modern Toyotas having catastrophic fuel system contamination, for example, requiring thousands of dollars to rectify, and HI-Lux going to limp mode because of dust, [ just a couple of problems Toyota drivers will actually own up to] It becomes clear that modern vehicles will have their problems, no matter the brand. However, it is each to his own. I can understand why people would choose a Toyota out in remote areas where experienced mechanics are thick on the ground, and where parts are readily available. As for the G wagon, the soldiers I've spoken to have said it leaves the old defender for dead off road, and when the RAEME soldiers get their head around the 21st century maintenance requirements, it will probably be the best vehicle they've had. But that could be because of the air conditioning and the fact it won't send them deaf while driving it. Only time will tell. [smilebigeye]

[SpudHeadTed]

Capability and Reliability are two totally different things and this is why there are FAR more Toyota 4WD's on Australian roads and tracks than any other brand.
I Love my Landrovers but Seriously a Defender (including the new D6/Defender) isn't in the same league as a 79 series V8 in the bush.

I totally disagree. Have driven both out bush for nearly 20 years. 70s for work. Defender private. Defender has always been way ahead of 70 series IMO. Equally reliable, more capable, more economical and better on road too. It’s why I only own Defenders.

There are more Toyota’s because of 1. Advertising hype. 2. Dealer and service networks. 3. Bigger engines make blokes feel tough. 4. Fuel is too cheap. 5. Strange prejudice towards Land Rover by sheep followers & mechanical repairers all over the country.

[SpudHeadTed]

Andrew St Pierre White has done not a review , but commentary on the hype VS the reality of the 2020 defender, and it's not what I thought he might say. He says the new defender will be the most capable 4x4 off the shelf in the World at the moment. If only I could afford one, and the other reality for me is, I have trouble working out my mobile phone, let alone a whizzbang 21st century vehicle.

YouTube (https://youtu.be/utZRGNCeZFM)

Yeah his review was buying into the hype big time. ...It’s all anyone has to go on so far.
Hopefully its all true in the testing and long term!