Worth buying a 10-year-old Toyota Fortuner 4x4 diesel today?

Not only will it be way under budget but will also give me room to experiment with lots of off-roading modifications.

BHPian z_3en recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Since the ban on vehicles older than 10 years in some places and fitness criteria in most. Is buying a diesel vehicle older than 10 years still a good choice to make.

My love for off-roaders is what got me to think of these questions. I have been planning on purchasing a Fortuner MT mainly for its 4x4 capabilities (4x2 out the window). Since the recent price hike not only has the price of a new unit gone up but even the second-hand market has more to cash on now. Not all of this hike is due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but that for some other day.

Since this purchase is mainly adventure-driven I really wanted a vehicle that can take a beating. Fortuner being top in the list since I have to travel abroad for months together leaving the vehicle parked. So it is logical to own something that has low maintenance and can stand firm with time. All of these conditions are really pushing me towards the good old 4x4 MT first-gen Fortuner (for some reason they refer to it as Ironman Fortuner). Not only will it be way under budget but will also give me room to experiment with a hell of off-roading mods.

The Problem:

Since I reside in north India (LKO) and just cannot avoid going to Delhi-NCR will it be right to purchase something so old and awesome but a red flag due to emission norms?

Here's what BHPian Rahul Bhalgat had to say on the matter:

For "its ability to stand firm with time", yes the Fortuner will be a good choice. Also, if you follow the preventive maintenance schedules properly, it shall not give you surprises. Additionally, you will have to take some extra precautions when it will be unused for long intervals.

But the diesel car older than 10 years cannot ply the roads in Delhi and NCR. So if you love Fortuner and you are getting very sweet deals I would suggest you go ahead. The NCR trips can be handled by renting the local cars.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.