FJ vs. Xtrerra

[wesel123]

Im a Toyota guy so I'm posting this here cuz I dont know where else to post. The boss want's to either get an FJ or an Offroad Edition Xterra. Now you FJ owners be nice.:)

So what are the pros and cons fo each. I've worried about Nissan reliability over the years but they seem to have come a long way. I get more goodies on the Xterra but can see much else. I need to knwo about reliability and such.

Not really worried about aftermarket cuz I aosnt fixing it up. It stays bone stock.

So now I open the floor to you fine gentlmen.

[Cypher]

Well... Since I own both an FJ and a 2nd gen Frontier (brother of the Xterra) I think I can make a pretty good comparison.

First off, you say no mods. What is the truck going to be used for?

Foremost I can say that Nissan definitely does not have reliability issues or I wouldn't be driving one. Toyota has of course a rich history of reliability, but I personally think Nissan is on the same page now (we won't talk about Nissan early years). Many members of ONAZ have 2nd gen Xterras and I have to say the visibility factor is significantly better in the X than the FJ. In fact that is my biggest complaint about the FJ, bad visibility, which takes some getting used to in the city. You will cut off a number of poeple if not careful If the truck is going to be hauling people all the time get the X. The back seats are easier to get in and out of vs. the FJ and the suicide half doors. The X has a little more power and get-up-and-go than the FJ but this is not a significant difference. The FJ can out maneuver an X all day long whether it is on the trail or in a parking lot. The FJ feels like you are driving a golf cart and no u-turn is undoable. I do like that you feel like you are sitting in a truck with the X, since it has more head room and the seats are higher off the ground. The FJ you are sitting on the floor. Hands down the FJ takes the cake for styling and functionality. The X's suspension rides more like a truck were the FJ rides a little softer and is more comfortable, this aspect is opinion based as to what is better. The ATRAC in the FJ is flipping awesome. The X version of the traction control is not as refined or as useful. Both have rear e-lockers which work great. The FJ has a lower geared 4lo (I forget the numbers). On a trial the FJ will out wheel an X consistently. However, the underbelly of the X is awesome. Everything is tucked up above the frame rails and with the addition of a few skid plates it is bomb-proof. I am not sure what the hell the engineers were thinking when building the FJ, which has one of the worst underbellies I have ever seen. Lots of low hanging cross members and junk.

Either way, both are great trucks and will keep on keepin on for many miles down the road. Hope this help!

[GTKrockeTT]

one major plus about the FJ is it's availability of aftermarket parts, but since you've already stipulated that the vehicle will remain stock, the argument here carries very little merit.

stock for stock, the 2 vehicles are definitely quite capable to one another...payload, towing capacity. cypher has already touched upon some pros/cons of the 2 already, and the physical aspects...look, 4 doors vs suicides are obvious, so i won't dive into that. one thing i dislike about the FJ is the gas tank size, and the extra 2ga or so in the Xterra would be advantageous for me.

[Cypher]

Good point GT. I should also mention I was getting better gas milage in my Frontier when it was stock compared to the FJ stock. We won't discuss my current gas milage on the Frontier :yikes: The Frontier is also about 450 lbs heavier stock than the FJ. Take that for what it is worth related to the Xterra.

[Rev]

I do not own an FJ, I own an Xterra, but from what I know the two trucks are very similar. As has been well described, the FJ is a little better on the trail, but I've been told the Xterra is more comfortable on road. At least that is what I've read in articles and heard from people who have driven them both. Mind you, they both do either very well, so sometimes it is splitting hairs. I wanted to buy an FJ because I love the look, but the wife did not like them so I bought an Xterra. Although I do love the look of the FJ, I love the power, agility, and comfortable ride of my Xterra (and there are a lot of guys at thenewx.org who have some bad @ss rigs). The Xterras are amazingly reliable with an award winning VQ engine with plenty of power. The only main problem people experience with the Xterra is a weak front differential, but that really applies to those going hardcore off road. You won’t have a problem there.

Ultimately I think you should drive both and see what feels better, at least that is what I would do. Either one will get the job done, and have fun doing it. But I’m sure you (or your boss) would like one over the other when you get behind the wheel. That is my two cents.

[wesel123]

Perfect!!!!! Thanks Cyper, thats exaclty what I wanted to know.

I dont plan on mods because the UZJ will do most of the camping and offroad work.

The X will be back up. But I want to get the fully optioned one just incase I want to take it out.

Thanks Guys

[Cypher]

You are very welcome! If I were you (along with the boss) test drive the two of them back-2-back so you can get a feel for the difference sitting behind the wheel. As I was saying they are both great vehicles and I love both the FJ and Frontier. Post up what you end up getting...

[Rev]

with pictures! :sombrero:


You may be pleasantly surprised what a stock offroad Xterra can do.

[Martinjmpr]

How do they compare price-wise? Last time I did any casual searching on Autotrader you couldn't touch an FJ for under $25k even if it had 30,000 miles on it.

As much as I like my Toy I think right now they are overvalued for reasons that have more to do with emotion than reality. As a current Toy owner, of course, I benefit from that but if I was shopping for one the premium price you pay for that "T" emblem would be a cause of concern for me and would probably push me towards the X.

[wesel123]

How do they compare price-wise? Last time I did any casual searching on Autotrader you couldn't touch an FJ for under $25k even if it had 30,000 miles on it.

As much as I like my Toy I think right now they are overvalued for reasons that have more to do with emotion than reality. As a current Toy owner, of course, I benefit from that but if I was shopping for one the premium price you pay for that "T" emblem would be a cause of concern for me and would probably push me towards the X.

The X is 29200 out the door. the FJ is about 31000 out the door. Nissan Has 2k cash back and Im getting the X for Invoice. Far deal seeing as how there are only 5 09 4x4 OrrForad Edition X's in California and were trying to beat the tax and double registration increase.

[weezerbot]

Buy the X...there are enough FJ mall crawlers in this world already! :sombrero:

[wesel123]

Buy the X...there are enough FJ mall crawlers in this world already! :sombrero:

Heh I resemble that remark!!!!! It's not gonna be a........oh wait it IS gonna be a mall cruiser......dang it.......Maybe shell let me um....have fun with it:victory:

[Cypher]

The X is 29200 out the door. the FJ is about 31000 out the door. Nissan Has 2k cash back and Im getting the X for Invoice. Far deal seeing as how there are only 5 09 4x4 OrrForad Edition X's in California and were trying to beat the tax and double registration increase.

You should be able to get them both cheaper than that. I got both the FJ and Frontier for less than 28K out the door. I realize there is a difference between CA and AZ but you should still be able to get a better price. The Frontier has everything it can have with the Nismo Offroad package, and the FJ had everything you could get (Option pkg 1 & 2) with out being a special edition and the TRD components option. Also, don't get the Nissan warranty at the dealership. You have 36K to get one if you want it and then you can buy it on the internet for way cheaper, it just won't be financed in the loan (if you are financing that is). Not sure if you can do the same with Toyota.


Buy the X...there are enough FJ mall crawlers in this world already! :sombrero:

Ohhhh snap! :)

[wesel123]

You should be able to get them both cheaper than that. I got both the FJ and Frontier for less than 28K out the door. I realize there is a difference between CA and AZ but you should still be able to get a better price. The Frontier has everything it can have with the Nismo Offroad package, and the FJ had everything you could get (Option pkg 1 & 2) with out being a special edition and the TRD components option. Also, don't get the Nissan warranty at the dealership. You have 36K to get one if you want it and then you can buy it on the internet for way cheaper, it just won't be financed in the loan (if you are financing that is). Not sure if you can do the same with Toyota.



Ohhhh snap! :)

Unfortuanlty I cant shop around anymore. Tomorrow April 1st the tax goes up 1% and the Registration fees double. So I could try to shop a little more but the savings would be nullified by the additional cost in the good ol' state of California....with a "C" (sorry had to do that).

[Cypher]

I hear ya... I am not sure it would be worth the wait. I also got both our our truck through the Fleet departments, which anyone can do. I just called up and said I want to speak to a fleet salesmen, told them what I wanted (low ball) then met in the middle. Worked like a charm.

[4Rescue]

Why compare Apples to Oranges... Seems that the 4Runner is a far better comparrission to the Xterra and, to me, is the clear winner. V8, Locker, Toyota... Sorry, but against the 4Runner I don't think that the X-Terra could sway me away from Toyota. Versus the FJ, sure, maybe, but the 4Runner is a better comparisson IMO.

4Runner -vs- Xterra: No Question 4Runner

FJ -vs- Xterra... Well if it's for trail use no Mods, off the lot etc... FJ, it's a better trail rig. IF it's a DD and you want easy access for more than 2 adults: Xterra no question.

Cheers

Dave

[Bergger]

Why compare Apples to Oranges... Seems that the 4Runner is a far better comparrission to the Xterra and, to me, is the clear winner. V8, Locker, Toyota... Sorry, but against the 4Runner I don't think that the X-Terra could sway me away from Toyota. Versus the FJ, sure, maybe, but the 4Runner is a better comparisson IMO.

4Runner -vs- Xterra: No Question 4Runner

FJ -vs- Xterra... Well if it's for trail use no Mods, off the lot etc... FJ, it's a better trail rig. IF it's a DD and you want easy access for more than 2 adults: Xterra no question.

Cheers

Dave

I own an 06 Xterra OR. Great truck and I totally agree with the above.

[firemansxterra]

well as for a guy that has a 2nd Gen X (2005 +) and has a couple of pals with new FJs...go for the X. the reason I say this is as mentioned before about the visibility in the FJ it's like you have triple the blinds spots as in any other SUV...also the power and realiability of the VQ engine in the X is awesome...don't get me wrong I have had many Yotas in the past and they last forever but the new stuff that Nissan has put in the X is great...

also I'm sorry but I don't have all of the links that I have seen on the comparison except for this one:
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparison_test/crossovers_and_suvs/2006_hummer_h3_vs_2006_jeep_grand_cherokee_2006_ni ssan_xterra_2007_toyota_fj_cruiser_comparison_test

there are several others if you do a google search, and the Xterra has one quite a few MotorTrend SUV of the year awards since changing over to the 2nd Gen in '05...

good luck shopping!

[allochris]

through the Fleet departments

which fleet? private companies or the dealers?

[Skim]

FJ has coil rear suspension, more front IFS travel, an engine with more torque, and proven trail capabilty.

Comparing the two vehicles in stock form the FJ wins - plan and simple.

[Cackalak Han]

Is the new 4Runner Trail Edition in the running? I'd choose that over the FJ or the X. But between the two, I'd have to say the X, ONLY because of the comfort level above the FJ. I just hate suicide doors.


V8, Locker, Toyota...

IIRC, the Trail Edition with the locker only come with the V6. Unless you're talking about the "CDL" on the V8's...

[wesel123]

We had an 04 V8 Runner that we sold (STUPID STUPID STUPID) and did i a STUPID choice. We would get another runner but cost is the issue. All the used 4x4's have a crap load of miles and a new one is too much.

She wanted the OffRoad Edition X but there are 0 available (other than a red one with chrome rims that they wont take off...yuk) so she's getting an
SE 4x4. sad cuz there is no locker only a limited slip.

She drove the FJ and hated the blind spots.. the're really bad. You guys weren't exaggerating, its really bad.

Thanks for all the imput guys it really helped.

Now to sell a cherry 98 5spd. 4x4 Runner..... anybody interested.

[Cackalak Han]

If I had extra space in the garage or driveway, I'd take that 98 4Runner 5sp........

Does it have a locker? :D Sometimes regret selling my old 4Runner.

[wesel123]

No locker open at both ends. I still cant belive she wants to get rid of it. Im not kidding when I say its flippin clean.

[mcm4090]

FJ has coil rear suspension, more front IFS travel, an engine with more torque, and proven trail capabilty.

Comparing the two vehicles in stock form the FJ wins - plan and simple.

The Nissan 4.0 motor has more horsepower and torque then the Toyota 4.0 motor.
Both have proven their capabilty on the trails.

[Rev]

FJ has coil rear suspension, more front IFS travel, an engine with more torque, and proven trail capabilty.

Comparing the two vehicles in stock form the FJ wins - plan and simple.

I think many would disagree.

[Layonnn]

The Nissan 4.0 motor has more horsepower and torque then the Toyota 4.0 motor.
Both have proven their capabilty on the trails.

toyota has 239HP and 278ft/lbs torque, what are the numbers of the nissan, i believe the HP is 265ish.

edit nissan xterra has 261HP and 281 ft.lbs.

If it is going to be a wheeler, the aftermarket for offroad gear for the FJ is larger, but from the OP that is not a concern.

[AZ-Ted]

I've seen some well built FJs out there, but I like my X. Either of them in stock form are OK for forrest service roads, but if you are looking to do some real offroading, you will need to mod your vehicle.

:ylsmoke:

[4Rescue]

Is the new 4Runner Trail Edition in the running? I'd choose that over the FJ or the X. But between the two, I'd have to say the X, ONLY because of the comfort level above the FJ. I just hate suicide doors.



IIRC, the Trail Edition with the locker only come with the V6. Unless you're talking about the "CDL" on the V8's...IF that is the case then still, ARB both ends... I know it removes the stock bit, but the V8 makes a BIG difference. I've never driven a V8 4Runner, but have driven the 4.7 in the 1st Gen Tundra and loved the motor. IF they do come with the E-locker and the V8 the ony thing that could make it better would, to me, be a 6spd manual and some manual hubs. I belive the X HAS a manual though??? Anyone??? This is making it tougher, but I still like the 4Runner first and fore most, but then I'm a confirmed and admitted "Toyota snob" of sorts eh...

Either way, I think the X wins out over the FJ for me. I don't think I'd mind the added size on the trail. I do like some more wheel base sometimes and again the lack of 4 real doors just kills me...

...I just can't stop thinking what if Toyota had made a DIRECT competitor to the JK Unlimited... What if they had actualy made a real FJ40 re-make like what Jeep has been doing for years and years. A modern version of the FJ40/3/5 would just flat out be amazing IMO...alas it is just a dream and I don't ever see it happening.

Get the X...

Cheers

Dave

[Streakerfreak]

...I just can't stop thinking what if Toyota had made a DIRECT competitor to the JK Unlimited... What if they had actualy made a real FJ40 re-make like what Jeep has been doing for years and years. A modern version of the FJ40/3/5 would just flat out be amazing IMO...alas it is just a dream and I don't ever see it happening.



GET OUT OF MY HEAD! I was just thinking this the other day as I lusted at a beautiful FJ40 driving down the highway.

[Cackalak Han]

Yes, I am pretty sure the X comes with the 6sp option. Size wise, that C&D article said that the X is narrower? Not sure.

And I've said it before and I'll say it again. The day Toyota makes a hardtop FJ40 or 1st gen 4Runner remake, I'll be the first in line.


IF that is the case then still, ARB both ends... I know it removes the stock bit, but the V8 makes a BIG difference. I've never driven a V8 4Runner, but have driven the 4.7 in the 1st Gen Tundra and loved the motor. IF they do come with the E-locker and the V8 the ony thing that could make it better would, to me, be a 6spd manual and some manual hubs. I belive the X HAS a manual though??? Anyone??? This is making it tougher, but I still like the 4Runner first and fore most, but then I'm a confirmed and admitted "Toyota snob" of sorts eh...

Either way, I think the X wins out over the FJ for me. I don't think I'd mind the added size on the trail. I do like some more wheel base sometimes and again the lack of 4 real doors just kills me...

...I just can't stop thinking what if Toyota had made a DIRECT competitor to the JK Unlimited... What if they had actualy made a real FJ40 re-make like what Jeep has been doing for years and years. A modern version of the FJ40/3/5 would just flat out be amazing IMO...alas it is just a dream and I don't ever see it happening.

Get the X...

Cheers

Dave

[4Rescue]

GET OUT OF MY HEAD! I was just thinking this the other day as I lusted at a beautiful FJ40 driving down the highway.

HAHAHAHA yeah I litterly was just watching an FJ40 and a new JK unlimited going down the hwy. next to eachother and just thinking... My god why didn't Toyota do THAT...

How's the East Coast treating ya brother??? You're not missing much here in Oregon, it's real grey and realy wet and fairly cold... Bring on SPRING!!!!!!

And Chaklahan: I too am with you, I'd LOVE to see a 1st5 Gen 4 Runner re-make, I love mine, but it'd be neat to see it all grown up with a modern interior and a nice big motor...hey how about a diesel.

Cheers

Dave

[Cypher]

which fleet? private companies or the dealers?


Fleet at the dealerships. Anyone can buy a car from them, just most people don't know this. Trust me, they will not turn away a sale and since most fleet departments can sell cars at like $500-$1000 over invoice, you already have a good place to start negotiations from. This is how I have gotten even vehicle I have bought for around invoice or less.

[Cypher]

We had an 04 V8 Runner that we sold (STUPID STUPID STUPID) and did i a STUPID choice. We would get another runner but cost is the issue. All the used 4x4's have a crap load of miles and a new one is too much.

She wanted the OffRoad Edition X but there are 0 available (other than a red one with chrome rims that they wont take off...yuk) so she's getting an
SE 4x4. sad cuz there is no locker only a limited slip.

She drove the FJ and hated the blind spots.. the're really bad. You guys weren't exaggerating, its really bad.

Thanks for all the imput guys it really helped.

Now to sell a cherry 98 5spd. 4x4 Runner..... anybody interested.

Great! Sorry you weren't able to get the OR X. I hate when dealers do stupid stuff like not take rims off. As if they couldn't put them on something else, make the sale and sell them later. Oh well. You guys got a great truck and will be happy with it. Post some pics of the new X when you get a chance.

[Cackalak Han]

...hey how about a diesel.

Cheers

Dave

Now you're REALLY deep in la-la land.

:friday:

:xxrotflma

[ShottsCruisers]

FJ has coil rear suspension, more front IFS travel, an engine with more torque, and proven trail capabilty.

Comparing the two vehicles in stock form the FJ wins - plan and simple.

No chance. Not for everyday driving and stock wheeling. No way.

[UCBerzerkeley]

...I just can't stop thinking what if Toyota had made a DIRECT competitor to the JK Unlimited... What if they had actualy made a real FJ40 re-make like what Jeep has been doing for years and years. A modern version of the FJ40/3/5 would just flat out be amazing IMO...alas it is just a dream and I don't ever see it happening.

You mean what if Toyota had OFFERED a direct competitor to the JK unlimited in the US? Because they certainly make them, even today, and have been making them for years -- it is the TLC 70 series. Unlike Jeep, which caters to a predominantly domestic audience, Toyota caters to the world. It is simply not worth the effort for them to bring the 70 up to smog for the US, especially when the clientele for such a product doesn't really exist in the numbers necessary. That, and I would assume they would probably cost 40-60k per car depending on options, while lacking most of the plush amenities people can acquire in a domestic for 20-40k.

Move to Canada is all I can say :P

http://forum.ih8mud.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9416&stc=1&d=1105831827

http://forum.ih8mud.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9415&stc=1&d=1105831799

http://forum.ih8mud.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9913&stc=1&d=1106322963

http://forum.ih8mud.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20439&stc=1&d=1115681445

http://www.sandlander.com/galeria/20080924-70911/800/21988809105879701623.jpg

Great threads w/ pics:
http://forum.ih8mud.com/70-series-tech/31716-post-pics-your-modded-7x-series.html
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=24450

Info pages w/ tons of pics:
http://www.brian894x4.com/LC70shortmediummain.html
http://www.brian894x4.com/LC78main.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_LandCruiser_70_Series

[Cackalak Han]

http://www.sandlander.com/galeria/20080924-70911/800/21988809105879701623.jpg

It actually crossed my mind that I COULD move to Canada for this... :elkgrin:

[Root Moose]

It actually crossed my mind that I COULD move to Canada for this... :elkgrin:



Move to Canada is all I can say :P
http://www.sandlander.com/galeria/20080924-70911/800/21988809105879701623.jpg


Don't get too carried away - we haven't gotten the 70s in Canada for a long time.

[762X39]

Yeah but at least we got them ...

[4Rescue]

You mean what if Toyota had OFFERED a direct competitor to the JK unlimited in the US? Because they certainly make them, even today, and have been making them for years -- it is the TLC 70 series. Unlike Jeep, which caters to a predominantly domestic audience, Toyota caters to the world. It is simply not worth the effort for them to bring the 70 up to smog for the US, especially when the clientele for such a product doesn't really exist in the numbers necessary. That, and I would assume they would probably cost 40-60k per car depending on options, while lacking most of the plush amenities people can acquire in a domestic for 20-40k.

Move to Canada is all I can say :P

http://forum.ih8mud.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9416&stc=1&d=1105831827

http://forum.ih8mud.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9415&stc=1&d=1105831799

http://forum.ih8mud.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9913&stc=1&d=1106322963

http://forum.ih8mud.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20439&stc=1&d=1115681445

http://www.sandlander.com/galeria/20080924-70911/800/21988809105879701623.jpg

Great threads w/ pics:
http://forum.ih8mud.com/70-series-tech/31716-post-pics-your-modded-7x-series.html
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=24450

Info pages w/ tons of pics:
http://www.brian894x4.com/LC70shortmediummain.html
http://www.brian894x4.com/LC78main.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_LandCruiser_70_SeriesMan I've lived in Australia, I know what Toyota makes in the rest of the world... Canada didn't even get most of the neaty trucks I'm refering to. Still, you all did get more 70 series then we did eh ;) However, the SWB 70 isn't really what I'm talking about. I'm refering more to a modern FJ40 akin to the JK...

Cheers

Dave

[winch wench]

I dont have much to say about the Exterra....dont have any first hand knowlege...

the FJ, on the other hand, if youre gonna go bone stock...getting the TTSE...she will be more than ready for off-roading without any mods at all..

of course, im slightly prejudice... :wings:

[08whitex]

I am in a family that ownes an FJC, H2, and h3. I own an Xterra. I would say that the FJ, H3 and Xterra are all very close in the offroad aspect. The only downside to the FJC is the rear doors and the limited visibility.

[Powdaze]

My friend just bought a new Xterra OR with AT, Tech pkg, iPod and mats for $24,380 + TTL. MSRP was $30,505.

Random thoughts:
I was very impressed with the amount of get up and go it has. All that TQ helps. Felt a little quicker over the sprint than my FJ. Steering and ride were both very good. The FJ has a better ride quality and runs smoother on road. Brakes are average on both vehicles. Interior is cheap and bare bones, but simple and functional. Same FJ. Interior storage is much better than the FJ. Space and functionality is excellent, much better than my FJ imho. Access to the stadium rear seats is very easy and there is plenty of room back there, both leg and headroom. There is even plenty of room to camp with the seats folded flat. Folding front passenger seat is nice feature as is the wet weather storage box on the roof. Visibility far superior over the FJ. I haven't driven it on the trails yet but I know that it is very capable even in stock form. Likewise FJ.

Both great trucks that are very close in performance imho. When I bought the FJ the X was it's closest competitor. For me the FJ just won out, and it was more to do with personal subjective factors (design, brand, legacy etc) than actual performance or features. I still wish that the FJ came with 4 real doors though...

[wesel123]

Thanks again for everyone's opinions, they weighed heavy in the bosses decision, which was not either the FJ or the X.

She ended up with a used 4Runner. For some reason the X deal did not go well. These dealers think this is a few years ago and don't want to sell cars...no wonder they are failing. Anyway I digress..... here's a pic. Boss says I can't touch it until the tires wear out (time to do donuts in the parking lot):)

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii188/wesel123/IMG_1236.jpg

[Cackalak Han]

Sweet! Sport Edition, too. Congrats on the new ride.

[weezerbot]

Very nice...a much better choice overall I think!

[firemansxterra]

nice...you got a good ride there...

[Cypher]

Ahh very nice.. 4runners are great, and once again, you didn't make a bad choice. Too bad the deal on the X fell apart, I am not sure what they were thinking. You should drive up to the Nissan dealership in the new 4runner and show the salesmen what you got. I have done it before and it feels great! hahaha! At a minimum I would send an email or send a letter and tell them they missed out. Congrats again on the new ride.

[Powdaze]

Nice choice.