The Toyota plant released the Land Cruiser 80 model back in 1990; this event was revolutionary and excited the SUV market. Cruiser 80 is in demand among car enthusiasts even now; it is not as expensive and sophisticated as modern models (Toyota Land Cruiser 200, for example), but still has a number of tangible advantages.
The SUV easily slides off the asphalt.
Let's take a closer look at this model with all its advantages and disadvantages. Features of the vehicle: excellent maneuverability, endurance and comfortable handling. Many owners of “80s” models will not part with them for any money. But those who are planning to purchase a TLC 80 need to clearly understand that the equipment that came off the production line more than two decades ago has its own “weak points” that require increased attention and cash injections.
Appearance, dimensions
The Land Cruiser 80 in the photo is a large SUV with a durable metal body. Unlike the previous model, the sixties, the TLK-80 has been significantly improved. Manufacturers increased the rigidity of the frame and body parts, which increased reliability. The car is presented in a single five-door body, with square narrow optics installed in front.
The frame is the strong point of an SUV, characterized by durability and reliability. She does not react to chemicals. The body resists corrosion well; raptor can be used to protect the coating. Only the air supply panel begins to rust.
Compared to its predecessor, which was short, the TLC 80 has become larger in size and more prestigious in design. The length of the SUV is 4780 mm, the width does not exceed 1900 mm, and the height of the car is 1870 mm. We are pleased with the impressive parameters of the wheelbase - 2850 mm and high ground clearance, which is 21 cm. This ground clearance allows you to overcome any obstacles.
The standard equipment is characterized by the absence of moldings on the side of the body. After the first restyling in 1994, the appearance was slightly transformed. A special feature was the brand badge on the radiator grille, chrome glass.
Depending on the configuration, the weight of the machine varies from 2100 to 2260 kg. The car has a maximum weight when fully equipped. Tuning kits and accessories will help you modernize your car with spoilers, body kits, etc.
Cars intended for the Middle Eastern market are distinguished by the designations GX-R, VX-R and the presence of the Toyota emblem on the hood.
Rounded factory body
The car acquired a more rounded shape in the style of Toyota sedans. The old chopped style was abandoned and it bore fruit; its popularity increased greatly. The manufacturer had to satisfy the requirements of eastern buyers, who need the most simple and reliable car, and the requirements of other markets, which require a level of equipment.
The reliability of the body is fabulous, rust appears a little on the rear doors and trunk lid, if it is solid. The body ignores salt; it can only destroy the air conditioner tubes. The body doesn’t care about dirt picked up off-road, the same goes for the powerful frame.
There is a problem with the windshield of the Land Cruiser. It allows water to pass through, which harms the interior electrical system. The problem is present from the factory due to the lack of sealant during installation, so it would be better to reinstall it correctly. The only small detail is the radio antenna, which turns sour when dirty.
SUV dimensions:
- length – 482 cm;
- width – 190 cm;
- height – 190 cm;
- wheelbase – 285 cm;
- ground clearance - 21 cm.
Interior features
Toyota Land Cruiser 80 series was produced in three trim levels: STD, GX, VX. The simplest version of STD is characterized by a lack of comfort, but maximum reliability. The SUV in this configuration does not have electrical adjustments; the interior is upholstered in leatherette, which is easy to clean. The STD could not boast of having a tachometer.
The interior of the Kruzak GX 80 is made of fabric, the car is characterized by rich equipment. There is air conditioning and carpet on the floor.
In the expensive VX series package, a choice of leather or velor interior is striking. The version is characterized by the presence of a lifting rear door and cruise control. The only equipment equipped with an automatic transmission.
The instrument panel has two dials: tachometer and speedometer; additional dials are also located here.
The trunk volume is 830 liters; the rear seats can be folded down to increase the size. The capacity will increase to 1370 liters.
After restyling the Toyota 80 in 1996, the standard version was supplemented with an anti-lock braking system, airbags, and an updated square instrument panel with divided segments.
Car interior and exterior
Yes, the Land Cruiser 80 is large.
Manufacturers, of course, did not spare the hardware, which is a big advantage for such a machine. This large car from the entire line is truly beautiful and harmonious, because it looks more like an army vehicle. But all its heaviness is solidity, because there are few cars in the world that would take up so much space on the road. Off-road lovers will appreciate this car. The body rises above the frame, large wheels have a pattern in order to increase maneuverability on difficult roads, and the snorkel is located along the right windshield pillar. A large trunk, which allows you to transport large loads, is installed on the roof. To help you climb onto the roof, there is a ladder on the left side of the rear door.
The overall design of the Land Cruiser has some angularity, which adds some masculinity and brutality to this model. Here you can hardly find smooth and thin lines, because at that time, a men's car was associated with roughness and clarity of lines.
The interior of the car was also skillfully designed and executed to a high level from the very beginning. The manufacturer has clearly thought out every little detail, so everything you need is at hand. It is impossible to find a single detail in the car interior that is made from the now popular pseudo-wood, only high-quality black plastic. Motorists claim that even many years after production and operation, this plastic does not make any squeaks while driving.
It is worth noting the convenient and informative dashboard. Fuel level and engine temperature are also available to the driver on the panel. However, there was no place to place the tachometer, which causes negative emotions in almost all motorists. Many owners note the convenient location of the gear shift lever, and the shift itself is very clear.
About engines
The Land Cruiser is available with a choice of three types of engines:
- diesel 4.2 l;
- petrol 4.5 l;
- petrol 4.0 l.
The 4.2-liter diesel engine has a power of 120–179 horsepower. It works in tandem with a five-speed manual transmission and a four-speed automatic transmission. The design has a 16-valve cylinder head (cylinder head). The turbodiesel unit accelerates from zero to hundreds in 15 seconds, which is a pretty good result for a massive SUV. Fuel consumption does not exceed 14 liters per 100 km.
A diesel engine is more demanding on fuel quality. Every 15,000 km it is recommended to clean the injectors and monitor the operation of the air and fuel filters. The oil volume in the engine is 11 liters; unlike gasoline modifications, the oil should be changed more often.
You should not turn off the car after long trips immediately after completion, as this significantly reduces the life of the turbine.
The only drawback of a diesel unit is the timing belt drive, since there is a high risk of belt breakage and its expensive repair.
The four-liter gasoline engine comes with carburetor and injection. Develops up to 155 horses, has become less popular among SUV owners. There are more problems with carburetor engines: cleaning, adjustment, constant maintenance, repair work, which cannot be said about an injection engine.
The 4.5-liter unit, running on gasoline, has 24 valves in its design. The engine is capable of developing a maximum of 215 hp. With.
The timing mechanism uses a chain. Gasoline units are not very fancy, the only drawback is high fuel consumption. An SUV can “eat” up to 20 liters of gasoline per 100 km. The oil volume in the gasoline version is 8 liters.
Special configurations
Sometimes on the used car market you also come across Toyota Cruiser 80 models with modifications GX-R and VX-R. Both varieties are created for the Middle East. These types of configurations have features that distinguish them from the European version. Thus, most of the parts cannot be found on our domestic market: radiator, starter, engine block head, and many others.
In addition, these modifications were created for countries with hot climates. Therefore, the owner of such a car runs the risk of not starting it if it is very cold outside. In addition, the heat-loving control unit may not reduce speed during warm-up at the right time.
Another problem with the two mentioned versions of the Kruzak 80 is a starter with less power. This part of the “eastern” version will break in a maximum of 2 years. The cost of a new starter is about $450. Taking into account all these features, it is better not to purchase an “Asian” Cruiser 80.
Drive car
For Toyota Land Cruiser 80 there are three types of drive:
- Part time 4WD;
- 2 types of Full time 4WD.
The Part time 4WD transmission automatically engages front-wheel drive in difficult road conditions. If you drive all-wheel drive constantly, the system will fail within two years.
For constant all-wheel drive, it is recommended to choose an SUV with a Full time 4WD transmission. It allows you to drive in all-wheel drive without damaging the car. The third type of Full time 4WD involves locking the front and rear differential.
Ride quality
Toyota technical characteristics (TTX) are at the highest level. Kruzak engines work in tandem with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission is distinguished by the presence of manual and winter modes. Typically, an automatic transmission works in conjunction with a gasoline engine. It is quite problematic to encounter a diesel engine with an automatic transmission.
Gearboxes are reliable and durable with proper maintenance. The oil in the box must be replaced every 60,000 km.
Driving too aggressively can damage the front suspension.
Stabilizer bushings must be replaced after 40,000 km, shock absorbers - 120,000 km. Front brake pads last up to 70,000 km, rear brake pads - up to 100,000 km. The CV joint will have to be changed after 150,000 km. After 200,000 km, wheel bearings fail.
The Land Cruiser 80 is equipped with a rack and pinion steering mechanism.
How to choose Land Cruiser 80
Domestic car enthusiasts are striving to purchase a car that will be unpretentious on our roads and will give drive when driving. At the same time, they choose used cars with significant mileage, like the classic LK 80, due to the fact that new SUVs are expensive.
If you treat the Land Cruiser 80 well and maintain it in a timely manner, it will last a long time. When choosing an SUV, it is recommended to give preference to gasoline models.
The Toyota Land Cruiser 80 is still stolen, so before purchasing the legendary car, carefully check its history. There are often cases when a standard version was sold under the guise of a complete set according to documents.
Age and mileage
Due to the impressive age and mileage on diesel models, you will have to periodically invest heavily. Frequent engine oil changes are required, and if the timing belt breaks, expensive repairs will have to be made.
Carburetor models from the eighties, despite their age, are less demanding and work well on 92-octane gasoline. There is no risk of the timing belt breaking since it uses a chain drive instead.
Personal experience of Toyota Land Cruiser 80 owners
According to reviews from SUV owners, the car’s status and brutality are noted. The spaciousness of the cabin allows you to go on vacation with a large group of friends or family. Among the advantages are overcoming off-road conditions and ride comfort.
“An excellent car with which you don’t have to worry about the safety of yourself and your passengers. Despite the maximum speed of 170 km/h, I am satisfied, because this car was not originally created for racing. The 95 liter gas tank is quite enough, and the fuel consumption is more than satisfactory for such a massive car.”
Oleg
“We are satisfied with the technical characteristics and brutal design. I didn't notice any shortcomings. When purchasing, you should understand that repair work will not be cheap for such a monster. I think that the Land Cruiser fully justifies the quality. When driving, there is evenness and smoothness of movement, speed and acceleration are gained normally.”
Victor
“A good SUV, suitable for city roads, highways and off-road. It looks aggressive, threatening, and it’s not a shame to drive such a car. The car handles long-distance trips well.”
Vladimir
What is the price of lc 80 now?
Finding a decent copy for sale is quite problematic, considering the year the Land Cruiser 80 was produced. Out of 100 cars, you may not find one or two in good condition. The price for early models is 380-400 thousand rubles . And younger copies with off-road preparation are estimated at 1.4-1.5 million.
