Pinzgauer - 101

[101RRS]

Last week when I was in Newcastle with my 101, I managed to visit Grover 98 (James) and his Dad to have a look at their 4x4 Pinzgauer and work in progress Haflingers.

On outwards appearance the 101 and Pinzgauer look to be similar vehicles but in reality they are very much different.

Firstly the 101 is very much a much larger vehicle with a bigger wheelbase, engine and payload. The Pinzgauer is certainly more sophisticated with a more integrated approach to its construction and fittings and suspension systems. Despite the difference in physical size the Pinz and the 101 are within a few kilos of each other when empty - 1950kg

Where the 101 has a basic ladder chassis, parabolic springs over the sals axles, the Pinz has a backbone chassis, independent suspension, coil springs but importantly portal axles. The result is that the Pinz has over twice the ground clearance under the diffs than the 101 and has diff locks as standard. Clearance under the body is probably similar. The 101 is constant 4wd where the Pinz is part time.

The 101 is probably a little faster on the road, has a much better engine note and it would seem to burn about the same amount of fuel as the 2.5 litre aircooled four in the Pinz. In most off road situations the Pinz would be better than a standard 101 but there would not be much in it where the 101 was also locked. The main advantage the Pinz would have is in situations where major under diff clearance is needed. Both vehicles have limited suspension travel but this is taken car of when diff locks are on or fitted. The Pinz has the same size wheels as the 101 but smaller tyres. 35s vs about 33s.

Both vehicles have their strengths and weaknesses in different conditions and in different configurations but I do not think direct performance comparisons are to fair to either vehicle.

Thanks to James and his dad - maybe some test driving next time .

Garry

Some pics.







A bit hard to see but note the clearance under the diffs

[djam1]

I owned a couple of Hafs back in the 90s they were the most capable rubber tyred vehicles I have ever driven without exception.
People often criticise them for having a top speed of 70km/H but a vehicle with suicidal tendencies at 50km/H they are way too fast lol
I have always wanted to get my hands on a Pinzi but have never seen one in the areas of Australia that I have lived.
They are brilliantly engineered and a different beast when compared to a 101

[101 Ron]

We should get together another time and do a run on stockton.

[Grover-98]

Thank you very much Garry!

I have been wanting to do the same thread but have been having difficulties getting my pictures on to the computer. I highly agree with all your comments, and certainly can not denny the sound of the 101 is something i would much rather listen too!!!

Next there will certainly be a drive comparison , and i hope to have a Haflinger up and running soon so might chuck that into the batch for fun .

I would just like to say thank you for making the effort to show us your 101! and it was great to have you and Peter over for the midday, send me a PM next time your heading to the area.

[Grover-98]

We should get together another time and do a run on stockton.

Let me know if you head to Stockton would be great to have the Pinz along, that is if we are welcome.

[101 Ron]

When are we doing it.
I took the 101 to Stockton early this year and had a ball.
I am a Haffie pilot from way back too,
A few other landie nuts from near by could join us too.
I feel a plan coming together.....

[101RRS]

Though I have lived in Newcastle off and on since the early 70s and had 4wds from not much later - I have never driven Stockton. Mainly because my family lives about 1km from Nine Mile beach (Blacksmiths to Red Head). It used to be free range when the sand miners were active but like all areas restrictions are starting to strangle use but you can still get onto the beach.

I have been told that Nine Mile Beach is technically more difficult than Stockton but Stockton has a bit more area.

As I was painting house - I took my 101 as it could carry all the gear I had - but I didn't get any chance to give the beach a go. I will be back up there in a month or so so might give the beach a go or trespass on James' turf.

Garry

[101 Ron]

I gather Garry your 101 did the whole trip without any dramas which is good news.
You have to get that locker in the rear to keep that Pinz at bay.
I was thinking a Month where it is not too hot and frying under the sun ( no trees at Stockton) and not too cold from the wind which can blast around Stockton.

[Grover-98]

I will be back up there in a month or so so might give the beach a go or trespass on James' turf.

Garry

Wouldn't be trespassing if your welcome! would be great to see the 101 in action.

James.

[Grover-98]

You have to get that locker in the rear to keep that Pinz at bay.
Stockton.

...But then it wouldn't be standard... might need one in the front as well .

All jokes guys the 101 certainly has a place in my garage any day!