The Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series stands out among other Land Cruiser models for its unmatched combination of off-road capabilities, durability, and versatility. While other Land Cruiser models offer specific advantages, the 79 Series remains the most-recommended safari vehicle for those seeking rugged reliability in extreme conditions. Below, we’ll compare the Land Cruiser 79 Series to other Land Cruiser models, detailing why it is better suited for demanding safaris.
The Best 4×4 Safari Vehicle; Ways Land Cruiser 79 Beats its Peers Hands Down;
1. Land Cruiser 79 vs. Land Cruiser 78 Series (Troop Carrier)
Why the Land Cruiser 79 is Better:
- Enhanced Payload Capacity: The Land Cruiser 79 is built with a higher payload capacity, making it ideal for carrying heavier loads such as safari gear, water, and camping equipment over long distances. This added capacity makes the 79 Series more suitable for extended expeditions where self-sufficiency is key.
- More Robust Off-Road Performance: The 79 Series is designed to handle tougher terrains with its superior suspension system, larger tyres, and improved ground clearance. Its coil-spring front suspension and longer rear leaf springs provide better articulation and smoother handling over uneven terrain compared to the 78 Series, making it the better option for challenging landscapes like deep sand, rocky surfaces, or river crossings.
- Superior Towing Capability: The 79 Series features a more powerful drivetrain, giving it superior towing capacity. This makes it an excellent choice for safaris that involve towing additional equipment such as trailers, mobile safari kitchens, or extra fuel and water tanks. Its 4.5L V8 turbo diesel engine delivers high torque, ensuring it can pull heavy loads with ease.
- Versatile Configurations: While the 78 Series is primarily designed as a troop carrier, the Land Cruiser 79 comes in multiple configurations, such as the single-cab and double-cab versions, offering more versatility for both passenger and cargo arrangements. This flexibility allows it to adapt to various safari requirements, from carrying gear to transporting smaller groups in remote areas.
Where the 78 Series Excels:
- Simpler Design for Field Repairs: The 78 Series offers a more straightforward mechanical design, which can be easier to repair in remote areas with limited access to specialized tools. Its basic mechanical components are a key advantage when long-term reliability is needed in the harshest environments.
- Lighter Weight: The 78 Series is slightly lighter than the 79 Series, which gives it a slight advantage in fuel efficiency and agility in less extreme off-road conditions. It performs well in more moderate safari environments where extreme payloads and towing capabilities are not necessary.
In conclusion, the Land Cruiser 79 excels in off-road durability, payload, towing, and versatility, making it the superior choice for safaris that involve rugged terrain, heavy loads, or long-distance travel. Meanwhile, the 78 Series is a reliable, no-frills option for operators looking for simplicity and ease of maintenance in remote settings.
2. Land Cruiser 79 vs. Land Cruiser 76 Series (Station Wagon)
Why the Land Cruiser 79 is Better:
- Superior Off-Road Performance: The Land Cruiser 79 is more robust for extreme off-road conditions. Its heavy-duty suspension system and greater load-bearing capacity make it a better choice for expeditions that involve deep sand, rocky terrain, or water crossings.
- Higher Payload: The 79 Series, particularly the double-cab version, offers a higher payload capacity compared to the 76 Series. This makes it a better choice for longer safaris where carrying extra gear or supplies is necessary.
Where the 76 Series Excels:
- The 76 Series offers slightly better interior comfort and more refined features, making it more suited for shorter or family-oriented safaris where rugged terrain is less of a concern. However, for true off-road adventure and overland safaris, the Land Cruiser 79 is more capable.
3. Land Cruiser 79 vs. Land Cruiser 200 Series
Why the Land Cruiser 79 is Better:
- More Rugged and Durable: The Land Cruiser 79 is built for toughness, with a simpler, more utilitarian design that is better suited for harsh, unforgiving safari environments. The 200 Series, while luxurious, lacks the same level of off-road durability and is more prone to damage in extreme conditions.
- Simpler, Easier Maintenance: The 79 Series has fewer electronic components and a simpler mechanical setup, which makes it easier to repair in the field. This is crucial for safaris in remote areas where vehicle maintenance is a challenge. The 200 Series, with its high-tech systems, requires specialized equipment and parts for repairs, which are harder to find in remote areas.
Where the 200 Series Excels:
- The Land Cruiser 200 Series offers unmatched luxury and comfort, with advanced features like climate control, leather seating, and a more modern suspension system. This makes it ideal for high-end safaris or family trips where comfort is a priority. However, for safaris that prioritize off-road performance, the Land Cruiser 79 is superior.
4. Land Cruiser 79 vs. Land Cruiser Prado
Why the Land Cruiser 79 is Better:
- Better Off-Road Capability: While the Prado is a capable 4×4, the Land Cruiser 79 excels in extreme off-road conditions with its manual locking differentials and low-range gearing, making it better suited for rough terrain and challenging landscapes.
- Higher Durability: The 79 Series is built for maximum durability with its ladder-frame chassis and solid-axle suspension, which are superior to the Prado’s more lightweight build. This ensures it can handle rougher environments and heavier loads without compromising performance.
Where the Prado Excels:
- When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Land Cruiser Prado outperforms the Land Cruiser 79 by a notable margin. The Prado typically achieves around 7.9L/100km, making it a more economical choice for fuel consumption. In contrast, the Land Cruiser 79 is significantly less efficient, with fuel consumption ranging from 12 to 14L/100km, depending on driving conditions. This makes the Prado a better option for those prioritizing fuel economy, while the 79 is geared more toward heavy-duty, off-road use where efficiency takes a backseat to performance.
5. Land Cruiser 79 vs. Land Cruiser 300 Series
Why the Land Cruiser 79 is Better:
- Better for Off-Road Safaris: The Land Cruiser 79 is designed specifically for rugged, off-road adventures. It can handle more extreme conditions than the 300 Series, which, while powerful, is more focused on luxury and advanced technology than the utilitarian design of the 79.
- Lower Cost and Easier Maintenance: The Land Cruiser 79 is more affordable and easier to maintain. It does not have the high-tech features found in the 300 Series, making it less expensive to repair and service, especially in remote areas where advanced technology is a liability.
Where the 300 Series Excels:
- The Land Cruiser 300 Series provides luxury, power, and advanced technology, making it the ideal choice for high-end safaris where comfort and modern conveniences are important. For rugged expeditions where reliability and simplicity are key, the Land Cruiser 79 is a better option.
6. Land Cruiser 79 vs. Land Cruiser 100 Series
Why the Land Cruiser 79 is Better:
- Greater Durability and Off-Road Capability: The Land Cruiser 79 offers superior off-road performance due to its heavy-duty suspension and greater ground clearance. The 100 Series is more suited for moderate off-road conditions, while the 79 is built for extreme environments.
- Better Payload Capacity: The 79 Series can handle heavier loads, making it ideal for expeditions requiring extra gear or supplies. This is particularly useful for longer safaris where self-sufficiency is key.
Where the 100 Series Excels:
- The Land Cruiser 100 Series is a more affordable alternative and still provides solid off-road capabilities. It is better suited for safari operators looking for a cost-effective solution for rough, but not extreme, terrain. However, for more challenging landscapes, the Land Cruiser 79 is the superior choice.
7. Land Cruiser 79 vs. Land Cruiser 105 Series
Why the Land Cruiser 79 is Better:
- Stronger Off-Road Capability: The Land Cruiser 79 offers better off-road performance due to its manual locking differentials and ability to carry heavier loads. The 105 Series is also a strong off-roader, but the 79 Series handles extreme terrain more effectively, especially when heavily loaded.
- More Versatile for Safari Use: The 79 Series is more adaptable with its multiple configurations (single-cab, double-cab), making it better suited for both passenger transport and cargo-heavy expeditions.
Where the 105 Series Excels:
- The 105 Series provides solid off-road capabilities and is often more affordable than the 79 Series, making it a good choice for budget-conscious operators. However, for top-tier off-road performance and versatility, the Land Cruiser 79 is superior.
Here’s a comparison table summarizing why the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 is superior for safaris compared to other Land Cruiser models:
| Comparison | Why the Land Cruiser 79 is Better | Where the Other Model Excels |
|---|---|---|
| Land Cruiser 79 vs. 78 Series | – More versatile configurations (single-cab and double-cab options) for flexibility in both cargo and passenger transport. – Larger cargo bed ideal for carrying gear and supplies over long expeditions. | – Better for troop transport with a simpler layout ideal for group travel or fieldwork. – Easier access to cabin for quick exits in field missions. |
| Land Cruiser 79 vs. 76 Series | – Superior off-road capability with a more robust suspension and better load-bearing capacity. – Higher payload for carrying more gear on longer safaris. | – Slightly better interior comfort with more refined features for shorter, family-oriented safaris. – Compact design better for maneuverability. |
| Land Cruiser 79 vs. 200 Series | – More rugged and built for extreme, challenging safari environments. – Simpler design with fewer electronics, making it easier to maintain and repair in remote areas. | – Unmatched luxury, with advanced technology like climate control, leather seating, and modern suspension. – Perfect for high-end, comfortable safaris. |
| Land Cruiser 79 vs. Prado | – Excellent off-road performance with manual locking differentials and low-range gearing. – Built with maximum durability using solid-axle suspension and ladder-frame chassis. | – More refined interior with better fuel efficiency. – Ideal for family safaris or shorter trips where fuel economy and comfort are prioritized. |
| Land Cruiser 79 vs. 300 Series | – Designed for rugged off-road adventures with better handling in extreme conditions. – Lower cost and easier maintenance in remote areas, especially without needing specialized tools. | – Superior luxury, power, and advanced technology for high-end safaris. – More suited for luxury travel with modern conveniences and tech. |
| Land Cruiser 79 vs. 100 Series | – Greater durability with higher ground clearance and heavy-duty suspension for rough terrains. – Higher payload capacity for gear, making it ideal for self-sufficient expeditions. | – More affordable option with solid off-road capabilities. – Good for operators needing a budget-friendly, but still capable, safari vehicle. |
| Land Cruiser 79 vs. 105 Series | – Superior off-road performance with manual locking differentials and better load capacity for gear-heavy safaris. – More versatile for passenger and cargo transport. | – Offers solid off-road performance at a more affordable price point. – Suitable for budget-conscious operators, but less versatile than the 79. |
Summary:
The Toyota Land Cruiser 79 is built to handle rugged terrains, making it the best option for heavy-duty safari use. Its durability, off-road performance, and flexibility for both cargo and passenger transport set it apart from other Land Cruiser models. While vehicles like the 200 Series and 300 Series offer luxury and modern conveniences, the Land Cruiser 79 remains the most reliable choice for tough safari conditions, requiring minimal maintenance and offering maximum capability.
Conclusion: Why the Land Cruiser 79 is the Best Choice for Safari
The Toyota Land Cruiser 79 outshines other Land Cruiser models when it comes to handling the extreme conditions of African safaris. Its off-road mastery, durability, and versatility make it the most recommended safari vehicle for rugged environments. While models like the 200 Series and 300 Series excel in luxury, and the Prado offers comfort, the Land Cruiser 79 remains unmatched for those seeking reliability, toughness, and the ability to carry gear and passengers across the toughest landscapes.
At Safari Cruisers, we consistently recommend the Land Cruiser 79 for those looking to explore the wildest parts of Africa with confidence, knowing they are backed by the most dependable vehicle available.
A Series 79 Vehicle Owner Explains why he Switched to this Vehicle;
In a 2017 article titled “Why I bought: Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series“, Andrew Hilliard explains why he switched from a Land Rover Discovery 3 to a Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series for off-road and long-distance travel. The author previously owned a 2009 Discovery 3, praised for its comfort, versatility, and off-road capability, but high maintenance costs and lack of support in remote areas led to the switch. The Land Cruiser 79 was chosen for its durability, lower long-term ownership costs, and widespread availability of parts and mechanics in outback Australia.
Key reasons for choosing the LC79 included:
- High payload capacity for fitting a camper and traveling without towing.
- Simplicity, with fewer high-tech features that can cause issues in remote areas.
- Robust construction and aftermarket customization options, such as a GVM upgrade and suspension seating.
The author highlights the LC79’s ability to handle off-road conditions but notes downsides like restricted interior storage, poor turning circle, and average braking when fully loaded. Despite these limitations, the LC79 offers flexibility for various travel setups, including both a caravan and a camper for different types of trips.