Series 70 vs 79

The Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series and 79 Series are both part of the broader 70 Series lineup, which includes various configurations designed for different purposes. The primary difference between the 70 Series and the 79 Series lies in their specific configurations and intended uses.

70 Series Overview

• Introduction: The 70 Series was introduced in 1984 as a replacement for the 40 Series. It was designed to be a rugged, durable, and versatile vehicle capable of handling the toughest terrains.
• Configurations: The 70 Series includes several different models, such as the 71, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, and 78, with configurations ranging from short-wheelbase, medium-wheelbase, and long-wheelbase versions. These models are available as station wagons, troop carriers, and pick-up trucks.

79 Series Overview

• Introduction: The 79 Series is a specific model within the 70 Series lineup, introduced in the late 1980s as part of Toyota’s effort to offer a more specialized vehicle. It is particularly popular in its pick-up configuration.
• Focus on Utility: The 79 Series is primarily a workhorse, designed as a heavy-duty pick-up truck capable of handling large loads and tough environments. It’s often used in commercial applications, mining, and as a base for safari vehicles.
• Configurations: The 79 Series typically comes in single-cab and double-cab versions. It retains the rugged design, but with a focus on cargo capacity and durability rather than passenger comfort.

Key Differences Between 70 Series and 79 Series

Off-Road Capabilities: Both series are renowned for their off-road capabilities, but the 79 Series, especially in its pick-up form, is often preferred for more extreme off-road and utilitarian purposes.1984–1999: The Introduction and Early Evolution

Body Style: While the 70 Series includes various body styles like the station wagon (e.g., the 76 Series), the 79 Series is specifically focused on the pick-up truck configuration.

Intended Use: The 79 Series is more utility-focused, often used for heavy-duty applications, whereas other models in the 70 Series, like the 76 (station wagon), are more passenger-oriented.

Load Capacity: The 79 Series typically offers higher load capacity compared to other models in the 70 Series lineup, making it ideal for commercial and industrial use.

• Transition from 40/45 Series: In 1984, the Toyota Land Cruiser 70/75 series was introduced to replace the venerable 40/45 series of rugged four-wheel drives. While the new series retained the boxy, utilitarian aesthetic that was a hallmark of the earlier models, the design was updated with more angular lines, giving it a more modern yet still robust appearance.
• Model Variants:
  • 70/71 Series: Short-wheelbase (SWB) models designed for tighter trails and more compact use.
  • 73/74 Series: Medium-wheelbase (MWB) models offered a balance between maneuverability and cargo space.
  • 75/78 Series: Long-wheelbase (LWB) models, which included a variety of configurations such as the cab-chassis utility vehicles (pickups) and “troop carrier” hard-tops (HT). These were particularly popular in commercial and military applications due to their capacity and durability.

Introduction of Lighter Duty Versions (1985-1996):

• Toyota also introduced lighter-duty variants of the 70 Series during this period, marketed under different names in various regions:
  • Bundera/Land Cruiser II: Initially, these models retained some elements of the 70 Series design and engineering but were lighter and more suited for passenger use.
  • Prado: Over time, the Prado evolved from these lighter-duty models. By 1997, the Prado had completely diverged from its 70 Series origins, becoming the 90 Series, a fully-fledged passenger 4×4 with no direct lineage to the rugged, utilitarian 70 Series.

1999: Significant Changes and New Designations

• 79 Series Introduction: In 1999, Toyota designated the pickup version of the Land Cruiser as the 79 Series. This marked a new era for the model, particularly in markets like Africa and Australia, where the vehicle’s robustness made it a staple for safari operators and heavy-duty users.
• Troop Carrier and Mechanical Updates:
  • 78 Series: The “Troop Carrier” model became the 78 Series, continuing its legacy as a reliable transport vehicle for multiple passengers in challenging environments.
  • Mechanical Improvements:
    • Coil Spring Front Axle: Replacing the leaf spring setup, this provided better ride comfort and improved off-road handling.
    • Longer Rear Leaf Springs: Enhanced the vehicle’s load-carrying capacity and stability.
    • 5-Bolt Wheels: Transitioned from the previous 6-bolt setup, streamlining the design and maintenance.
    • Redesigned Features: Updates to the steering wheel, front indicators, and overall cab design improved both the aesthetic and functionality of the vehicle.
    • Extended Wheelbase: Particularly in the cab-chassis models, the longer wheelbase allowed for increased rear storage, making the vehicle even more versatile for commercial use.

Here’s a comparison table of the Toyota Land Cruiser 70 series, focusing on different models within the series, including their key features and specifications.

Feature	70/71 Series (SWB)	73/74 Series (MWB)	75/78 Series (LWB)	79 Series (Pickup)
Introduction Year	1984	1984	1984	1999
Wheelbase	Short	Medium	Long	Long
Primary Use	Compact, off-road	Versatile, balance of space	Commercial, heavy-duty	Utility, heavy cargo
Body Styles	3-door SWB SUV	3-door MWB SUV	Troop Carrier, Cab-chassis	Single Cab, Double Cab Pickup
Suspension	Leaf springs (early), later coil front/leaf rear	Leaf springs (early), later coil front/leaf rear	Leaf springs (early), later coil front/leaf rear	Leaf springs (early), later coil front/leaf rear
Engine Options	Diesel and Petrol	Diesel and Petrol	Diesel and Petrol	Diesel and Petrol
Payload Capacity	Lower compared to others	Moderate	High	Very High
Off-road Capability	High	High	Very High	Extremely High
Primary Markets	Global	Global	Global	Global, especially Africa and Australia
Special Features	Compact size, agility	Balance between agility and space	Large cargo area, troop transport	Heavy-duty construction, enhanced durability
Evolution and Changes	Minimal design changes, primarily updates to engines and safety features	Similar to SWB with additional cargo space and versatility	Transitioned to Troop Carrier and commercial use; significant suspension improvements	Updated with modern safety features, longer wheelbase, and improved payload capacity

Additional Details:

• 70/71 Series (SWB): Ideal for tight trails and urban off-roading. Compact design makes it agile but with limited space compared to other models.
• 73/74 Series (MWB): A balanced choice offering more cargo space while retaining good off-road maneuverability. Popular for mixed-use.
• 75/78 Series (LWB): Dominant in rugged terrains, particularly as a troop carrier or for commercial use. Known for its durability in harsh conditions.
• 79 Series (Pickup): The 79 Series became the standard for heavy-duty utility work, especially in remote areas. With a longer wheelbase, it can carry heavier loads while maintaining off-road capabilities.

This table provides a snapshot of the evolution and characteristics of the 70 Series Land Cruisers, illustrating how each model variant has been tailored for specific uses and environments.