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ZUKIWORLD Model Specific Suzuki Forum => Suzuki Grand Vitara, Vitara, Chevy Tracker (Gen. 2 Platform) 1999-2005 => Topic started by: SGV_Power on March 10, 2011, 08:39:03 AM

Title: New to the forum -- Need some opinions
Post by: SGV_Power on March 10, 2011, 08:39:03 AM
Hey Everyone,

Just registered and am new to the site.  I'm contemplating between 2 GV's and don't know which one is a better deal to get:

1 -- 2001 GV / Manual / 106,000kms / $5,250
2 -- 2006 GV/ Manual / 101,000kms / $9,000

I believe both are JLX models and are in mint condition.  Is it worth putting myself in $3,750 more debt to get the '06?  My need is just a weekend vehicle to get around. 

Thanks for you help,

Jay
Title: Re: New to the forum -- Need some opinions
Post by: jeff1997 on March 10, 2011, 08:44:57 AM
I think that the 2001 and 2006 are in mechanical terms the same. I would say go with the 2001, same miles and a lot cheaper. Do they have the 4cyl or v6?
Title: Re: New to the forum -- Need some opinions
Post by: SGV_Power on March 10, 2011, 08:50:43 AM
I think that the 2001 and 2006 are in mechanical terms the same. I would say go with the 2001, same miles and a lot cheaper. Do they have the 4cyl or v6?

Both have V6

2001 = 2.5L
2006 = 2.7L
Title: Re: New to the forum -- Need some opinions
Post by: fordem on March 10, 2011, 11:24:38 AM
I think that the 2001 and 2006 are in mechanical terms the same. I would say go with the 2001, same miles and a lot cheaper. Do they have the 4cyl or v6?

No - a 2001 GV should be an SQ series chassis, a 2006 GV should be JB series - and there are significant differences in between the two.

SQ series is body-on-frame construction, part-time 4WD, independent front suspension, live rear axle - JB series is unibody/monocoque construction, full-time 4WD (more on that later), independent front & rear suspension.

Depending on the model & options available in any given country, the JB series could have either full-time 4WD or four mode 4WD, in which the four modes are full-time 4WD (center differential unlocked); high-ratio 4WD with center differential locked (same as full-time 4WD but the center differential is locked); neutral; and low-ratio 4WD with center differential locked.

The JB series is more of a soft roader, stops just short of being a crossover (Suzuki claims there is a built-in ladder frame), but typically a very nicely equipped car, and impressively strong in terms of collision strength (a guy spun an F150 in front of a friend and she T-boned him and was then hit from behind by the car following her).

The SQ series is a light truck based SUV and that shows not only in the ride, but also in the fit & finish - there is always a certain degree of movement between the separate body & frame as you go over bumps and consequently, squeaks and rattles - don't get me wrong - I drive an SQ and I love it.

If I were in your position, I'd be going with the SQ (the 2001), for the reasons that Jeff mentioned, and because I think it has more off road potential - but for a week-end run around (or for the wife) the JB is nice.

Oh - I forgot - the SQ has way less electronics than the JB, easier to diagnose, easier to repair.
Title: Re: New to the forum -- Need some opinions
Post by: jeff1997 on March 10, 2011, 01:39:39 PM
Sorry, I was wrong about the 2006. I was thinking of the 2005's. fordem is right, the 2001 will allow better offroad fun.