The old and the new, 1998 Landcruiser, 2012 Mazda BT 50. Would have liked another Toyota but they are lagging behind with the creature comforts and have priced themselves out of the market.

[Sailor]

Congrats! That new Mazda looks as if it means business. What is the black appendage on the right side of the vehicle? Is that an engine air intake for when the floods cometh?

Jer

[Schraubstock]

It's a snorkel for river crossings during the wet season in Western Australia. There quite a few roads in WA crossing mostly dry riverbeds but these dry rivers can suddenly fill up with a rush of water leaving you stranded. Hence the snorkel.

Greetings

[IanS]

Your right about the air intake, as it's a farm vehicle and on dirt roads a lot it's main purpose is to limit the amount of dust that gets into the aircleaner.

[dcmsox2004]

that 98 landbruiser looks like it's in beautiful shape.... nice complement to your new ride... enjoy ! dave m

[daacon]

One mean looking machine both of them however the 2012 looks like it was built for adventure and a real work horse.

[Westoz]

Mate the old 75 series looks like it's had an easy life haven't seen one that clean in years.
I think you made the right choice the steel on the Hilux is only .6mm thick, I fit a lot of snorkels and have dented several just leaning on them the 78-79s are still good but pricey.

Good luck with the new beast.

[IanS]

Thank's very much, the toyota has only done 280,000 kms so it's just run in, I must be getting soft in my old age but I wanted something a bit more comfortable and the $20,000 price difference help make the descision easier.
Cheers Ian

[tpg2]

Congrats!
It must be a lot of fun crossing the rivers in this beast! Tom