Conceived out of a military need for go-anywhere transportation, the Toyota Land Cruiser quickly evolved into the world’s most reliable exploration vehicle. That’s a title the lineup wears with pride today, as Land Cruisers of all ilk can still be found exploring the farthest reaches of the globe.

The FJ40 variant, introduced in 1960, is for many the iconic Land Cruiser with its upright styling, 4.2-liter inline six-cylinder power, and legendary reliability in even the most demanding situations. Toyota responded to demand for an extended-wheelbase Land Cruiser with the introduction of the FJ43. This chassis featured a 95.7-in. wheelbase, versus the FJ40’s 90-in. span between the wheels. Overall, the FJ43 stretched about 14 in. longer than the FJ40 with a maximum seating capacity of up to nine passengers, depending on the body configuration. Thanks to the extended wheelbase, the FJ43’s payload capacity grew by 200 lbs. to 1,100 in total.

The FJ43 proved exceptionally popular in South America, where its extra capacity made it a trusted tool on plantations and ranches in places like Colombia. That is where the FJ43 offered here was originally delivered in 1979. Today, the restored example is presented in better-than-new condition, swathed in Mustard Yellow paint over dark grey original-style leatherette upholstery and vinyl flooring. Its cream-colored hardtop was a popular, South American-built period accessory that provides far more comfort than the factory soft top. The only visible modification is an aftermarket audio system with speakers integrated into the hardtop.

With its grey-painted wheels wrapped in modern mud tires, the FJ43 is an eye-catching Land Cruiser, ready for exploring parts unknown.