XG to XH and then AU

[Francis]

G'day all.

Just wanted to get some info from those that have perhaps had each model or know a fair bit about the XG, XH and then AU, BA V8 Utes.

Ultimately Id like a 2006 + BF XR8 6 speed manual or a 250 Pursuit with a nice canopy but I don’t want to spend over $15,000. SO if I have to go backwards then I thought Id consider the old school XG and XH V8 Ute’s even though it seems no one makes a nice stylish canopy for those.

First question is how different is the XG to XH in ride / drive quality? I know the XG has the older style XF front end and steering box while the XH has the newer style front end. Does the XH front end running gear make a big difference?

Second to that, my impression is that the AU was a quantum leap forward from the XH in performance, ride and handling. IS this true? Ive heard the leaf spring set up was so much better handling in the AU’s and BA’s compared to the older XH models.

Third, with the AU utes, is there much difference from Series 2 to 3? There seems to be a lot a S2’s around at fair prices but what am I missing out on.

Forth, was it 2005 + that the timing chain tensioners were sorted out on the BA’s and
they went to the 6 speeds?

With regards to fuel usages, where the XH’s much worse than the AU 5L V8s?

Thanks guys.