I've had a SC for 11 years. Best all roud vehicle I've ever owned. It's old now (86 C reg.) and tired and I'm thinking of buying a 4WD 2L Diesel Auto Master Ace Surf. The body shells look the same. Are they? Are the interior dimentions the same as well? I ask the really stupid questions first. Bob.

- (#3623) Bob Hughes, 3 Jul 02

More or less the same Bob. The skylite version has a more pointed roof and the rear looks different. The Space's window being 'sunk' and the Townie's being more convex. Overcomes the terrible corrosion problems experienced by the Space. Noses are different too. The side windows don't slide on the 89+ models and imo are more secure as a result. Big difference is the equipment spec of the Townace/MasterAce being far superior and then there's the diesel engine which even though 4WD is more frugal than the Space.

Some parts are interchangeable so if you've accumulated some over the years don't chuck 'em out just yet.

- (#3625) Ian Dunse, 3 Jul 02

Bob,
I had a 2.0 Manual Cruiser from 89 to Feb this year. Now have 2.o Diesel Auto Royal Lounge. Yes it's much the same externally, slight differnce in bumpers, windscreen and depending on model side windows. The roof is higher, some have the sun and moon roof others have sky lights. The rear door is higher so you can get even bigger things in!
Engine wise I noticed a little lack of grunt but noe used to it, although the standing start still scares me until the turbo kicks in.
Internally extra head room is better for rear passengers getting in and out. Apart for some extras such as A/C 4WD, and a more modern dash much the same.
Have a look at Townace.com for more info.
HTH Clive

- (#3626) clive, 3 Jul 02

This is a 'thank you' to both Ian and Clive.
I've only jusy found this site. I wish I had a long time ago. Maybe my SC wouldn't feel quite so old and tired now. They've all got to go sometime haven't they?
Such useful imformation here and really helpful people.Diolch yn fawr, Bob.

- (#3681) Bob Hughes, 6 Jul 02