Gypsy vs. MM for custom Rubicon

BigRig · 5th January 2009, 19:32

Hey Guys,
I am looking at getting a custom Rubicon-looking jeep and wasn't sure if the Gypsy or the Mahindra MM's would be a better choice/platform to start with. Would appreciate your expert opinion.

1. Use
Drive to work (30 miles round trip, Delhi/Gurgaon, moderate traffic) and fun short trips with the family. Own a Innova for out-of-town driving, and a Fiesta. Will keep both vehicles).

2. Budget
5 -6 Lakhs total.

3. While the MM Jeeps are closer-looking to the Rubicon, I have heard/read that they are not very comfortable to drive. On the other hand, the Gypsy may need more body-work, but there are several aftermarket kits available, and it is .

4. What is your experience with extensive bodywork/customization. Are there likely to be fit and finish issues that will creep in over time. (Assume I'll go for a reputed body shop).

5. Any other suggestions are welcome.

Thanks.

DirtyDan · 5th January 2009, 23:35

Welcome to the site. You will find a lot of information you are asking for is already in existing threads. Use the search function to find the posts and threads.

Suggest you search on "rubicon", "dabwali", "punjab jeeps" for starters.

Most of us in this forum are more concerned with the mechanical problems and solutions related to off roading. But to each his own. There is also an SUV forum. If you are interested in family outings an SUV is more family oriented than a Gypsy or MM jeep. The latter do not accommodate families too well.

Instead of copying somebody else's idea, Rubicon, why don't you consider your own style? It may be cheaper and more satisfying.

badboyscad · 6th January 2009, 11:40

@BigRig: i suggest you take a look at Harjeev's MM550 XD thread which includes a Rubicon replica project done at his friend's garage.

Here is the link:
http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/4x4-of...ml#post1095371

autopsyche · 6th January 2009, 15:02

Thats one project i defintiely have in mind, infact im already working out the feasibility with a few friends. I intend to build a 2008 Rubicon 3dr replica on a Gypsy King. And if budget permits add a more powerful petrol motor.

khan_sultan · 6th January 2009, 15:04

Quote:

Originally Posted by autopsyche

Thats one project i defintiely have in mind, infact im already working out the feasibility with a few friends. I intend to build a 2008 Rubicon 3dr replica on a Gypsy King. And if budget permits add a more powerful petrol motor.

Wow that would be great. Look forward to that project.

OT: where did the thread on the rmonie's gypsy disappear? Can't see it any more. Wanted to look at the pictures of the gypsy man.

Ricky_63 · 6th January 2009, 15:15

Quote:

Originally Posted by autopsyche

Thats one project i defintiely have in mind, infact im already working out the feasibility with a few friends. I intend to build a 2008 Rubicon 3dr replica on a Gypsy King. And if budget permits add a more powerful petrol motor.

Sure brings back some memories.

Hope this happens real soon !! Looking forward to it..

Cheers

autopsyche · 6th January 2009, 15:25

Oh that RMonie will put up the pics himself in a day or two, i got infracted for putting up those pics

RedMM340 · 6th January 2009, 16:17

Hi BigRig,

The Jeep Rubicon has been a version of the Jeep Wranglers TJ, and JK. Both the TJ and JK have strong retro looking jeep styling. But keep in mind that the Rubicon is a variant that looks identical. The big difference with the Rubicon are the mechanicals. The Rubicon has upgraded axles and lockers that make it a supreme off roader.

Now if you want to make an ultimate off road performer, the you should try to build a Rubicon. But if you just want the look of a TJ Wrangler or JK Wrangler, that is is o.k., but it has nothing to do with a Rubicon.

If you want the visual appeal of either the JK or TJ, the CJ5/MM540/mm550 would be a much closer starting point than a Maruti Suzuki Gypsy.

You are correct that MM/Jeeps are uncomfortable, but so is the Gypsy. Drive both of them and make you own conclusion about which base vehicle suits you in terms of driveablity and comfort. I am personally a bit biased toward Jeeps, but you have to determine what is better for you.

The Gypsy has reliable japanese mechanicals, but uses petrol, so the operating cost of a diesel jeep would be much lower. A properly maintained jeep would also be reliable. Both can be made in to highly capable off roaders.

Aftermarket body work would never be as good as what the factory does. For example, I had a custom hardtop done on my MM550, which looks good 3 years later, but there are some rust spots and the rear hatch doesnt stay open. The interior carpets and a disaster, and will have to completely redone. Sometimes I wish I had left the roof as the original soft top.

My suggestion would be to go easy on the body fabrication trying to make it look like somthing it is not. Spend the money on a good mechanical condition vehicle, do some light modficiations such as tires/rims, paint job, mechanical work, suspension enhancement. That 5-6 L should get used up pretty quickly.

siddartha · 6th January 2009, 16:33

even though i would love to see a gypsy in this form , i feel the mahindra is better suited.

dwaraka · 6th January 2009, 19:57

Quote:

Originally Posted by siddartha

even though i would love to see a gypsy in this form , i feel the mahindra is better suited.

I too feel that Mahindra platform would be ideal. Find a Mahindra Major. It's a short wheel base and perfect for Rubicon modifications. Put broader tyres, make carbon fibre suspension, bikini top. Voila!

Dwarak

Kandisa · 14th January 2009, 12:31

Quote:

Originally Posted by RedMM340

You are correct that MM/Jeeps are uncomfortable, but so is the Gypsy. Drive both of them and make you own conclusion about which base vehicle suits you in terms of driveablity and comfort.

I guess comfort wise the 540's are better than gypsy, at least thats what i have heard from people who have driven both.

Quote:

Aftermarket body work would never be as good as what the factory does. For example, I had a custom hardtop done on my MM550, which looks good 3 years later, but there are some rust spots and the rear hatch doesnt stay open...

Oh, sorry to hear about that. That hardtop is the best one i have seen in any 540/550's.

Quote:

Spend the money on a good mechanical condition vehicle, do some light modficiations such as tires/rims, paint job, mechanical work, suspension enhancement. That 5-6 L should get used up pretty quickly.

Yeah with that kind of budget, he is well capable to add on lots of performance goodies. But kindly don't advise the same type of improvements as in your red monster

, not all people can handle it.
-best regards,

autopsyche · 14th January 2009, 12:36

I was just discussing this project with another customer yesterday... and the more i think of it, the more i want to go with the Gypsy as a donor car. Im very convinced it can be pulled off, the only glaring difference being the exra bit of metal from the door to the rear wheel arch due to the long wheel base version suzuki we have in india.

Salikt · 14th January 2009, 13:24

Quote:

Originally Posted by dwaraka

Find a Mahindra Major. It's a short wheel base and perfect for Rubicon modifications.
Dwarak

MM540/550 is the best and cost effective platform for such a maker over.

Dwaraka,

Is there any difference between MM540/550 and Mahindra Major in terms of Wheel Base? I think both has got same, Medium WB (91"). Am I correct?

sali

Parm · 19th January 2009, 13:03

spend some time on the 4x4 section on this forum and participate in the discussion and learn and share views and get to know about the conversion of MM into whatever you want.

cheers:

5th January 2009, 19:32	#1
BigRig Newbie Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Gurgaon Posts: 7 Thanked: 0 Times	Gypsy vs. MM for custom Rubicon Hey Guys, I am looking at getting a custom Rubicon-looking jeep and wasn't sure if the Gypsy or the Mahindra MM's would be a better choice/platform to start with. Would appreciate your expert opinion. 1. Use Drive to work (30 miles round trip, Delhi/Gurgaon, moderate traffic) and fun short trips with the family. Own a Innova for out-of-town driving, and a Fiesta. Will keep both vehicles). 2. Budget 5 -6 Lakhs total. 3. While the MM Jeeps are closer-looking to the Rubicon, I have heard/read that they are not very comfortable to drive. On the other hand, the Gypsy may need more body-work, but there are several aftermarket kits available, and it is . 4. What is your experience with extensive bodywork/customization. Are there likely to be fit and finish issues that will creep in over time. (Assume I'll go for a reputed body shop). 5. Any other suggestions are welcome. Thanks.
	() Thanks

5th January 2009, 23:35	#2
DirtyDan Senior - BHPian Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Dharamsala, H.P Posts: 2,075 Thanked: 1,565 Times	Welcome to the site. You will find a lot of information you are asking for is already in existing threads. Use the search function to find the posts and threads. Suggest you search on "rubicon", "dabwali", "punjab jeeps" for starters. Most of us in this forum are more concerned with the mechanical problems and solutions related to off roading. But to each his own. There is also an SUV forum. If you are interested in family outings an SUV is more family oriented than a Gypsy or MM jeep. The latter do not accommodate families too well. Instead of copying somebody else's idea, Rubicon, why don't you consider your own style? It may be cheaper and more satisfying. Last edited by DirtyDan : 5th January 2009 at 23:43.
	() Thanks

6th January 2009, 11:40	#3
badboyscad Senior - BHPian Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: TN Posts: 1,511 Thanked: 477 Times View My Garage	@BigRig: i suggest you take a look at Harjeev's MM550 XD thread which includes a Rubicon replica project done at his friend's garage. Here is the link: http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/4x4-of...ml#post1095371 Last edited by badboyscad : 6th January 2009 at 11:44.
	() Thanks

6th January 2009, 15:02	#4
autopsyche Senior - BHPian Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: New Delhi, Indi Posts: 1,519 Thanked: 33 Times View My Garage	Thats one project i defintiely have in mind, infact im already working out the feasibility with a few friends. I intend to build a 2008 Rubicon 3dr replica on a Gypsy King. And if budget permits add a more powerful petrol motor.
	() Thanks

6th January 2009, 15:25	#7
autopsyche Senior - BHPian Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: New Delhi, Indi Posts: 1,519 Thanked: 33 Times View My Garage	Oh that RMonie will put up the pics himself in a day or two, i got infracted for putting up those pics
	() Thanks

6th January 2009, 16:17	#8
RedMM340 BHPian Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: on the move Posts: 457 Thanked: 34 Times	Hi BigRig, The Jeep Rubicon has been a version of the Jeep Wranglers TJ, and JK. Both the TJ and JK have strong retro looking jeep styling. But keep in mind that the Rubicon is a variant that looks identical. The big difference with the Rubicon are the mechanicals. The Rubicon has upgraded axles and lockers that make it a supreme off roader. Now if you want to make an ultimate off road performer, the you should try to build a Rubicon. But if you just want the look of a TJ Wrangler or JK Wrangler, that is is o.k., but it has nothing to do with a Rubicon. If you want the visual appeal of either the JK or TJ, the CJ5/MM540/mm550 would be a much closer starting point than a Maruti Suzuki Gypsy. You are correct that MM/Jeeps are uncomfortable, but so is the Gypsy. Drive both of them and make you own conclusion about which base vehicle suits you in terms of driveablity and comfort. I am personally a bit biased toward Jeeps, but you have to determine what is better for you. The Gypsy has reliable japanese mechanicals, but uses petrol, so the operating cost of a diesel jeep would be much lower. A properly maintained jeep would also be reliable. Both can be made in to highly capable off roaders. Aftermarket body work would never be as good as what the factory does. For example, I had a custom hardtop done on my MM550, which looks good 3 years later, but there are some rust spots and the rear hatch doesnt stay open. The interior carpets and a disaster, and will have to completely redone. Sometimes I wish I had left the roof as the original soft top. My suggestion would be to go easy on the body fabrication trying to make it look like somthing it is not. Spend the money on a good mechanical condition vehicle, do some light modficiations such as tires/rims, paint job, mechanical work, suspension enhancement. That 5-6 L should get used up pretty quickly.
	() Thanks

6th January 2009, 16:33	#9
siddartha BHPian Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: bangalore Posts: 671 Thanked: 24 Times	even though i would love to see a gypsy in this form , i feel the mahindra is better suited.
	() Thanks

14th January 2009, 12:36	#12
autopsyche Senior - BHPian Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: New Delhi, Indi Posts: 1,519 Thanked: 33 Times View My Garage	I was just discussing this project with another customer yesterday... and the more i think of it, the more i want to go with the Gypsy as a donor car. Im very convinced it can be pulled off, the only glaring difference being the exra bit of metal from the door to the rear wheel arch due to the long wheel base version suzuki we have in india.
	() Thanks

19th January 2009, 13:03	#14
Parm Senior - BHPian Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: in a Toyota! Posts: 2,753 Thanked: 890 Times	spend some time on the 4x4 section on this forum and participate in the discussion and learn and share views and get to know about the conversion of MM into whatever you want. cheers:
	() Thanks