So The Trooper 2.8 has just as much HP as the Inline 4. I've read that in other posts. Thats sort of disapointing. I was hoping for the oppisite. Swaping 3.4 in place of the 2.8 is something I can do...But really dont want to if I can help it. I've had other vehicles in my life that did not have the factory motor trans combo and my experience were bad. Mis matched wiring harnesses, parts counter dudes getting confused, radiator hoses from one machine, to fit the frankenstein under the hood.

I've never see a 3.4 in a Trooper. I might be projecting my bad experiences. But I'd hate to get into that kind of a project only to discover that it wasnt as easy as everyone said it was going to be.

I also understand the difference between OEM parts. I know that they are of a higher quality and should last longer and do a better job. My only argument with that suggestion is that Portland has NO Isuzu dealers of any kind. That was one of my problems the last time I owned the 4 cyl trooper. There was no authorized dealer, no realy knowlegeable mechanics, no suport of any kind. The only help I got was from forums and back yard wrenching.

One of the things that made me consider the Mitsubish was the fact that they are still in the business of making cars and trucks. That tells me that they are doing something right. People vote with their wallets and Isuzu lost out due to some mistakes. (thats my guess anyway).

So I'm am very greatful for this discussion so far. It is shedding new light on these two machines.

Jon your thoghts and input have been very helpful and very objective. And the others who have posted have brought up some great points.

I'm curious what people think of the Mistubish Montero Gen-1 as a stock machine. I doubt I'll ever lift it, swap out difs or run mondo tires. I'm going to be driving dirt roads with a canoe on the roof. I'll haul a trailer to the dump. I'll drive up the mountain to go snow shoeing... I'm not going to go rock crawling or ford a muddy river.

With my use for the machine in mind, what do you think of these two machines in their stock forms??

Thanks for the input so far.