Just purchased last night in Japan, a lovely 1989 Exceed - gasoline powered, 5 speed - with only 43,000 km:
Now the urgency in the destruction of Jumbo Smurf goes beyond impending winter. As soon as this one arrives, on with the lift kit, out with the interior, and finding some ways to tweak more ponies out the engine. If all goes well, I should be ready for next years Deli Fest.
I went with gas mainly for the power. I found my diesel one to be underpowered, and I have a boat and trailer to tow now. Also, up here in the north, a diesel mechanic with time and willingness to work on these is harder to find, it gets cold here and gas engines start better in the cold, parts are cheaper, the gas engine 4G64 was used in several Mitsubishi and Chrysler models, it is easier to tune for horsepower, gas is cheaper than diesel (and in Houston there is no service station that has diesel, other than bulk fuel suppliers), and I honestly think that fuel economy will be very similar to the diesel (I will be monitoring this for sure).
The silver colour is the same as Josh's, but his is a low roof. I'm happy to have the square lights as well, as they are easier to replace when a boulder from the road sand gets thrown into them.
I also still have my rear bumper to put on, a big full length roof rack, and should start building a new front bumper.
BTW Jesse, if you find another locker, let me know. I'm not sure if this one is LSD or not and my old LSD rear end is promised to Josh.
Or else he's been caught looting the bus!
Seriously, gas is cool. I had the chance to take a short spin in a gas deli and WOW! what a difference Neck-snapping acceleration! Very, very different animal. Looking forward to hearing what you think of it as a regular driver - and a driver that knows diesel delis as well
Re 4G64 Engine - wow - there is lots of information on the www regarding these engines and the tuning / performance options available. Very interesting indeed.