Robust, Powerful, Luxurious, Protective, Adventurous
Well, my adventurous friends, let's step into a realm far from the usual lanes we traverse. Picture this; a mechanical behemoth, rugged yet elegant, a 2017 Terradyne Gurkha LAPV, just waiting for your bid in Thousand Oaks, California. This ride is not for the faint-hearted, and it offers a unique blend of sheer power and undeniable resilience.
Drinking in the intimidating matte black finish, you'll find a Ford F550 Super Duty chassis underneath – think trusty steed meets armored war horse. And under the hood, it roars to life with a 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8 engine. Linked to a six-speed automatic transmission, this beast boasts a dual-range shift-on-the-fly transfer case and a limited-slip rear differential. It's clear this machine is designed to conquer any terrain you dare traverse.
Inside, the interior belies the exterior toughness. Comfort comes in the form of heated bucket seats adorned in black diamond-stitched vinyl, paired with a Ford F-Series Super Duty dash. Modern conveniences like air conditioning, touchscreen infotainment system, and Apple CarPlay make the ride enjoyable, while a B&G intercom system with a siren adds an intriguing touch of authenticity.
The rear compartment is a blend of practicality and grit. Two bench seats, diamond-plate trim, and a Kussmaul automatic battery charger make it ready for adventure, while the elevating central platform below the roof hatch offers a taste of real-world tactical action.
What about its armor, you ask? Well, it's not just for show. This bad boy comes with B7/STANAG II-rated armor and features a driver's door firing port, a manually operated roof hatch, and even LED perimeter lighting. Perfect for when you want to play ‘secret agent' on a moonlit night.
With Hutchinson 20″ beadlock wheels, all-terrain tires with run-flat capabilities, and four-wheel disc brakes, it’s obvious that this Gurkha has been designed to never leave you stranded, regardless of where your adventures take you.
However, it's not without its quirks. There have been a few manufacturer recalls related to the engine block heater wire assembly, steering linkage damper, powertrain control module, and power door lock actuator. But, don't let these put you off. This mechanical giant still stands as a testament to how engineering can create a masterpiece that balances raw power with a rugged sophistication.
The current bid stands at $308,000 with just four days left. So, if you're in the mood to spice up your weekend jaunts or simply want a ride that would turn heads wherever you go, take a shot at it. This Terradyne Gurkha is a ride that promises an unforgettable experience and a tangible sense of empowerment.
Let's remember, life is a journey, best experienced when we dare to venture into the unknown. And what better chariot to guide you into those uncharted territories than this 2017 Terradyne Gurkha?
Pros:
- Exceptional Power: The Gurkha's 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8 engine is a testament to its exceptional power. Matched with a six-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case, it promises exhilarating performance in any terrain.
- Superb Protection: With B7/STANAG II-rated armor and additional features like a driver's door firing port and a manually operated roof hatch, the Gurkha assures top-tier protection, making it ideal for high-risk environments.
- Versatile Functionality: The vehicle's multi-functional rear compartment, complete with bench seats, diamond-plate trim, and an automatic battery charger, enhances its overall functionality, making it a practical choice for various applications.
- Superior Off-Road Capability: Equipped with Hutchinson 20″ beadlock wheels, all-terrain tires with run-flat capability, and four-wheel disc brakes, this LAPV is an off-road champion designed to conquer any terrain.
- Luxurious Interior: Despite its robust exterior, the Gurkha's interior, featuring heated bucket seats trimmed in black diamond-stitched vinyl, a touchscreen infotainment system, and air conditioning, brings in a touch of luxury.
Cons:
- Manufacturer Recalls: The Gurkha has had several manufacturer recalls, including issues with the engine block heater wire assembly, steering linkage damper, powertrain control module, and power door lock actuator. These might cause concern over the vehicle's reliability.
- High Cost: The auction price currently stands at $308,000, a considerable investment that may not be within reach for many potential buyers.
- Limited Practicality for Everyday Use: The Gurkha, with its armored exterior and military-inspired features, may not be the most practical choice for everyday commuting or city driving.
- Fuel Consumption: Given its 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8 engine and massive build, the Gurkha is likely to have a significant fuel consumption, making it potentially costly to maintain.
- Size and Maneuverability: Due to its large size, parking and maneuvering in tight spaces might be a challenge. Also, its imposing size might not be appreciated in all social contexts.
$308,000 (as of writing)