At the risk of diverting the thread (sorry).
For me I have found that a 4WD opens up lots of opportunities to explore. While many of the tracks or adventures do not necessarily need a 4WD, the fact that I have one means I do get out more, even to non-4WD specific locations.
As an example, I needed to be in Sydney for work one summer school holidays (January 2007). We turned it into a family road trip and took a few weeks holiday around the Forester-Tuncurry and Myall Lakes region (very beautiful spot).
Anyway, travelling back to the campsite one night and I saw an impressive sight between the trees. Having been out of communication with the rest of the world for a while (by choice) the family were guessing what it was, whilst I knew from one look that it had to be a comet, a very impressive one at that! Vaguely recalling a comet discovery announced back in August 2006 that was supposed to be peaking around Jan 2007 I thought that must be it and as we know 'twas a beaut. Not having my telescope nor a sophisticated camera, I was nonetheless keen to get back to the campsite before the comet set with the hope of capturing the comet situated over the lake as it set. Managed to make it back in time to quickly set up the tripod and Olympus C740 camera and rattle off a couple of snaps that I subsequently stacked. Attached is the result. Whilst not a digital masterpiece it captures some of the essence of the beauty of that moment with the comet reflected in the waters of the lake. Note, the camera is not a night-time camera so worked with what I had plus I was fumbling in the dark for the settings having never used the camera in this way before or having the manual
Without the 4WD (even though did not need a 4WD to get to that location) I would not have had that moment to share with the family - other moments yes, but not quite _that_ one.
Now that I have had a 4WD I would find it hard to go back to not having one. My kids are also keen (range in age from 14 to 10) and are asking what trip next dad (with suggestions), what upgrades dad, what 4WD would be the dream vehicle dad... Would hate to disappoint them...
Best advice I have found:
Join a club and/or do an accredited 4WD course. Nothing replaces learning first-hand.
The three questions to ask yourself, referred too in a previous post are fantastic.
Patience, do not rush - you are (usually) on holiday so enjoy.