Check out this Photo-chop....
http://www.customtacos.com/gallery2...apass=&sort=1&thecat=500

Not too bad...

Let me ask you guys. Do you think it's possible to build an capable 4x4 while maintaining modern good looks? I would definitely think that it's possible. Unfortunately, the modern public doesn't really care about a truck being capable. Towards the end of the bell curve of Toyota truck owners, the most people will use it for is to drive to work in snow covered conditions and/or tow a small boat. And most people don't even do that much. Additionally, a capable truck is usually diametrically opposed to a comfortable one. And you know which one the public wants.

In typical execution only, not in potential. It is quite possible to build a comfortable, capable truck. Mine is both and could be made even more comfortable with coilovers. A built FZJ80 also comes to mind. For that matter, I bet I could build the new Taco into a comfortable, capable truck... buy me one and we'll see! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/ignore.gif" alt="" />

Boy I don't want to sound like a snood or anything or even put down other makes of vehicles, but if I wanted something that looked like a FORD I would buy one! That's just me.

TRDTacoma <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

Bill,

I'll tell you what. Buy the 2005 Tacoma 4x4, modify it so that it's both comfortable yet fully capable. I'll test it out for say...hmmm... 10 or so years. If after that I deem it worthy I'll pay you what it's worth when I give it back <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/ignore.gif" alt="" />!!!

LOL!
David

Hardee har har. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/notooth.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" />

Hey Bill, I want in on it as well please. Im an awfully good testeroutter kinda guy....just ask EB! hehehe
~Darin <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/baby.gif" alt="" />

I watched a mildly lifted (about 2") FZJ80 with about 33" and factory lockers stomp all over a bunch of Jeeps and do at least as well as my truck with taller tires and more lift. I was super impressed. And thing rides as well as most luxery cars on the street. I want one now!!!! Too bad they are $$$$$$$. And get really, really bad gas mileage.

Sorry Darin, you're gonna have to wait your turn <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/butwiggle.gif" alt="" />.

On a serious note, you can make a truck that is capable and is comfortable, but it'll never make $$$ because it's too expensive. The manufacturers have to sacrifice one in terms of getting the other. Personally, I'd rather have the truck be capable. Then again, I like having a truck drive like a truck <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />.

David

The solid axle Land Cruisers 80s and 105s and certain Land Rovers are examples of comfort and very off road capable. A well designed coil spring system was the key. But to get the best handling that everyone wants in a luxery 4x4 <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" /> you have to use IFS and that's exactly what both Toyota and Land Rover did. Now Land Rover is going the extra step of adding IRS to it's production vehicles and Toyota is playing with IRS on it's concept vehicles. Solid axles both front and rear will definatley be a thing of the past in the not so distant future.