An update since my previous post on this thread sometime ago.
Since the previous post, I have had the chance to go with IJC trip to Noori top on my LC FZ100. Mine was the only one with petrol engine in the convoy. I had read few reviews before hand on 1FZ performance and it was described as having stump pulling torque/power and that was very much evident by the way the LC climbed to the saiful-malook lake without the need for even 4 X 4 engagement, let alone the need for 4 low. My navigators Fihsak would vouch for the ease with which we made it to the Lake, and even to Noori top the next day. I am not saying/ implying that the diesel vehicles were struggling, (their respective drivers would probably give better explanation about diesel engine performance) but 1FZ was never pushed on those climbs (and cheekily we also hit nearly 145-150kmph on a small flat section between naran and Jalkhad as well). It would have been nice if Cotec had come along with his LC 1FD, would have given me better bench mark for power /performance comparison for both on and off-road.
My point is, it all depends what one wants as the main use of the engine. I do not believe that my petrol engine would be much worse off compared to most diesel engines around. My guess is that this petrol engine would take me where ever I am brave enough to take it. As mine is relatively new vehicle, I avoid intentionally the more treacherous stuff, mainly because of possibility of damage to vehicle and the subsequent much higher repair costs etc. Once that barrier of self restrain can be overcome!!!!! The limit is extended way way beyond!!!!! One can always get lift kits, bigger tyres, snorkels and people abroad have also put superchargers on 1FZ. Than I am sure all kinds of mud baths could be enjoyed in a much better way!!!
Personally I am finding living with Petrol engine much friendlier. The morning starting/ clattering, the smoke n all, the issue of getting overheating in city traffic in summers with AC etc, these are all now forgotten. Only issue can be consumption, which doesnââŹâ˘t seem as bad on the pocket now as Diesel is now more expensive + requires more maintenance visits of oil and filter changes etc.
The newer engines are obviously much better, be it petrol or diesel, the latest 4.5 V8 diesel with twin turbos in new landcruisers have common rail technology and power 260hp n torque 650NM are way beyond the 4.7 V8 petrol power 270hp n Torque 420nm (probably also due for update). So far have not heard any major complains about diesel quality issue in the new diesel V8 4.5s. But would one really want to take a LC200 for a mud bath/ rallying be it with diesel or petrol engine!!!!
