Felipe, TSD, I agree you fly down to Panama, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, parts of Mexico, Central America you'll probably have a great, peaceful time.
But I was under the impression that 4x4s from the States have an unusually high resale down in Mexico and Central America (I didn't catch where TSD is starting from to drive in South America).
Few years back I was under the distinct impression you could make 3x the state-side value of a truck stealing it across the border and selling it. Needless to say I'd be a little on guard crossing in to Mexico and driving down through Central America to make my way to South America. Average manufacturing wage in Mexico is apparently only $2.50 an hour and most are very lucky to make that.
I'm just saying that a nicely equipped Wrangler might look like an injured young Elephant to a Tiger that has been feasting on lizards and monkeys for the last 6 months -- that is, a big "Score" to try to take down for he and family.
Frankly, though, I'd go in a big group. I'd know the embassies, hospitals on your route, etc. Bring GPS and Sat Phones, have cash available. Get legal code translations, know local lawyers everywhere on your route. I'd rather rely on group numbers than arms in case of trouble. Working knowledge of Spanish and Portugese wouldn't hurt either.
What can I tell you I have family that works for the U.S. State Department. Forgive my seeming "over-blow"
Dont worry about it... I guess the fact that we are from there makes us feel overly safe. Regarding the cost of US vehicles, depends on the country. Typically, Toyotas are worth much more than US brands, but in Mexico, for example, US brnds have higher value than in Panama (where I am from, and where US brands are seen much less value than Japanese or European brands).
In the case of Chile, for example, theft is very well controled. In Argentina, less so but still not terrible (although with the new crisis there, it is getting worse). In Brazil, in the cities is worse than the country side, but in Colombia, the country side IS dangerous. So basically, what I am trying to say is that the risk you are taking depends on which country you go, and where in that country.
Having said that, it's always better to be safe than sorry!
Felipe
