What Is the Difference Between the 76 and 79 Series LandCruiser?
The 76 and 79 Series are the two most popular 70 Series body styles in Australia and the most commonly confused. They share more than they differ - chassis, drivetrain, GVM, towing capacity, off-road capability, factory equipment levels and warranty are all the same. What differs is the body style and what you can do with it.
1. Body Style
76 Series: 5-door enclosed wagon with rear tailgate, fixed rear bench seat, 5 seats. 79 Series: cab-chassis ute requiring tray or canopy fitment, available as 2-door Single Cab (2 seats) or 4-door Dual Cab (5 seats). The 76 ships with a completed body; the 79 ships as cab-chassis only and is fitted with tray or canopy aftermarket.
2. Seating and Passenger Capability
Both 76 Wagon and 79 Dual Cab seat 5. The 79 Single Cab seats 2. The 76 Wagon's rear seat is family-oriented with proper rear windows and tailgate access. The 79 Dual Cab's rear seat is more utilitarian, with smaller windows and less rear legroom than the 76.
3. Cargo Configuration
76 Wagon: enclosed rear cargo area accessed by tailgate, weather-protected from elements. 79 Single Cab: open tray (factory tub or aftermarket aluminium) for maximum cargo length. 79 Dual Cab: shorter tray than Single Cab plus rear passenger seats. The 76 protects gear from weather; the 79 trades that for longer cargo length and easier loading.
4. Payload and GVM
Identical factory specs (post-September 2022 update). Both 76 Wagon and 79 Single/Dual Cab have factory GVM 3,510 kg. Payload differs slightly by kerb weight: 79 Single Cab approximately 1,315 kg, 79 Dual Cab approximately 1,325 kg, 76 Wagon approximately 1,245 kg. Pre-update vehicles had different figures - check the compliance plate.
5. Towing
Both rated for 3,500 kg braked / 750 kg unbraked. Factory GCM is 7,010 kg on both. Tow ball download rating is 350 kg on both. No difference in towing capability.
6. Engine and Transmission
Identical. 2.8L 1GD-FTV four-cylinder turbo-diesel (late 2024 onward). V8 1VD-FTV 4.5L turbo-diesel (2007 to late 2024). 6-speed manual or 6-speed auto. All variants share the same engine and gearbox specs.
7. Off-Road Capability
Identical drivetrain - both use the heavy-duty 70 Series ladder chassis, part-time 4WD with low range, live front and rear axles, and the same factory diff lock options. Off-road performance differs only by body geometry: the 76's shorter wheelbase is more nimble in tight terrain; the 79 Dual Cab's longer wheelbase is more stable at speed.
8. Which to Buy
Buy a 76 if you want family seating with weather-protected cargo and tailgate access. Buy a 79 Dual Cab if you want a family ute with a tray or canopy for working/touring loads. Buy a 79 Single Cab if you want maximum cargo length and have no need for rear seats. The 79 Series gives more flexibility in cargo configuration; the 76 gives more practical day-to-day family use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the 76 and 79 Series Landcruiser?
Body style. 76 is a 5-door enclosed wagon seating 5. 79 is a cab-chassis ute (Single Cab or Dual Cab). Both share chassis, drivetrain, GVM (3,510 kg post-Sept 2022) and tow capacity (3,500 kg braked).
Do the 76 and 79 have different engines?
No. Both use the 2.8L 1GD-FTV (late 2024 onward) or the older V8 1VD-FTV (2007 to late 2024). Same gearbox options.
Which has more payload, 76 or 79?
79 Dual Cab is highest at approximately 1,325 kg. 79 Single Cab is 1,315 kg. 76 Wagon is 1,245 kg.
Which is better for family touring?
76 Wagon for weather-protected cargo and easier daily family use. 79 Dual Cab with a canopy if you want maximum touring fitout flexibility.
