Faults:

An extremely reliable and solidly built car, I have had no problems so far.

Parts have been changed, not due to mechanical failure, but in the line of preventive maintenance.

Recently drove 6000km in one week, only problem was some dusty diesel causing the engine to sputter.

Seats slightly worn, but after 350'000km not really an issue!

No rust or corrosion, mainly due to the climate.

Paint a tad worn from sand storms and scratched from plants.

I think this car will out-live me!

General Comments:

Incredible engine, very reliable, high mpg and simple NA diesel - really couldn't ask for more! For a car that has traveled over 350'000km I am truly amazed. Must be driven well and maintained. Very effective off-road, but still not comparable to a Land Cruiser pick up truck. If I ever crash this car, I am going to buy another one!

Faults:

Had an alarming noise from the diff (I've had front wheel drive cars for 20 yrs so this was guesswork) which an oil change (£18) sorted.

General Comments:

I've never owned a 4x4 before and only bought this because I desperately needed something which would transport my family of five and camping equipment.

Being the basic model, equipment is spartan - it's got everything you need, but absolutely no more!

Seats are upright like padded dining chairs and therefore comfortable, the high viewpoint and lots of glass all round also makes it a doddle to drive.

Performance on road is bus-like - you learn to be patient - hills are a problem due to the tall gearing between 2nd and 3rd, you have to change up much higher up the rev band so the turbo cuts in in 3rd, but off road it's a dream taking the steepest slopes and the muddiest fields in it's stride.

Running costs are surprisingly low, I get at least 25mpg around town and 30+ on a run even full and with loaded roof bars.

Decent tyres can be fitted for as little as £65, although I have not needed to change tyres so far.

It's very important to have it serviced regularly (e.g. engine oil change every 4000 miles or so to protect the turbo) but I've found that going to a good independent garage it's no more expensive than running a big car.

Faults:

Virtually nothing mechanical has ever been a problem.

It was well maintained by both the first and second owner, and now by me.

The engine and transmission were rebuilt at 225,000 miles, but were both still operative.

Although spartan cosmetically, the interior space is exceptional. It seats a family of five, or two adults with camping gear for a cross continental.

Best of all... it does everything that a stock showroom 4X4 can do, and does it with chilling air conditioning and heat-stroke heating systems.

Unfortunately, the post 1991 models doubled in price, added posh interiors, and consequently diminished the concept of a true 4X4 that could be town or country.

Buy a 1984-1991 Isuzu Trooper and restore it. You will have a car for a lifetime.