TEOTWAWKI further down the track.

[Timelord]

Surf Gen 2 is not mechanically identical to the Hilux. Only a few Surf's were fitted with full locking diffs..

---

And 50% of the Surfs only have one battery. The Surfs have far more electrical gadgets than the workaday Hilux. Surfs are likely to be in much better bodily condition than a Hilux. More Surfs are automatic than manual. Auto 3litres do 24mpg if you drive carefully. 3 litres are less prone (but not exempt) to the mandatory Cylinder head cracking of the 2.4litres. TL

---

130,000 miles is average for the head cracking to manifest itself. Rebuild or replacement cost usually results in vehicle being scrapped. Many scrap vehicles on the market due to this.
Check the HiluxSurf forum out first to assess the level of mechanical anxiety and to look at the spares/knowledge & costings back up available. Possibly the best place to buy a Surf. Best buys are from true enthusiasts on these forums who are changing out an already maintained and upgraded vehicle. Pay the price and get a good one. Avoid cheap and from back street car dealers as the vehicles can be costly to repair but fantastic if a good one is obtained... Tyres need to be good on the prospective vehicle or add £350 minimum on to the real purchasing price...