BY MALCOLM LIVERMORE | 25th Jul 2003
BIG and tough, the Nissan - and the Toyota LandCruiser for that matter - is a great off-road performer but heavy on fuel. Larger and heavier than the Pajero, it is more cumbersome but not as comfortable. Enormous pulling power from a great 4.2-litre engine. More for the serious off-road types.
HOLDEN JACKAROO 4D WAGON (1985-1993)
LIGHTER and less powerful than the Patrol, Cruiser or Pajero, the Jackaroo is still an excellent off-road performer, as well as offering more economical city motoring thanks to its 2.6-litre, fuel-injected engine. The 2.8-litre turbo-diesel is a popular option.
TOYOTA 4 RUNNER 4D WAGON (1988-1990)
AN intermediate sized four-wheel drive, lacking the space and full off-road capabilities of the “big three”. Developed from the commercial HiLux range, it is well appointed and easy to drive and park around town. Independent front suspension adds to the comfort level.
NISSAN PATHFINDER 2D WAGON (1988-1992)
HANDICAPPED by having only two doors and a sluggish 2.4-litre petrol engine. Unusual styling but a handy sized vehicle which is the most comfortable of the Japanese four-wheel drives due to coil spring suspension all round.