Launched in 1960 as the Land Cruiser Model 40, its worldwide success carried for many decades, but for enthusiasts in the United States, the end came about in 1984. Only mild changes to the Toyota FJ were integrated over the years, mostly consisting of better safety and convenience items. This included a rollbar being standard equipment by 1974, ambulance rear doors in 1975 along with a larger more powerful 4.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine, front disc brakes in 1976, with 1979 options including power steering and air conditioning, plus a better 3.70:1 highway axle gearing as standard.

Bringing the arguably best package together by 1979, this Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser was built in June 1979 and “comes with all possible options.” Finished in Freeborn Red over Dark Charcoal vinyl interior, this fully restored example is in remarkable condition throughout. Under the hood lies its original 2F-coded 4.2-liter engine making 135 factory-rated horsepower and 210-lb/ft of torque connected to the fully synchromesh four-speed manual transmission and 3.70:1 rear axle. Options on this unit are plenty starting with the always favored power steering, air conditioning, power front disc brakes, rear-mounted spare, Warn locking front hubs, Warn M8000 electric winch, dual outside mirrors, front bumper hooks, KC foglamps, locking gas door, rear jump seats, heater/defrost, chromed rear bumpers, Tuffy padded center console with cup holders and locking compartment, plus the original AM/FM stereo radio in factory location, but a hidden AM/FM/CD player installed in the console with rollbar and Pioneer speakers installed for better listening quality.

Further upgrades, largely acquired from Cool Cruiser of Texas, include their HFS Designer Lift Kit that provides 2.5-inch lift springs and barbell lift shackles, Hell For Stout Explorer shocks and front steering stabilizer now allowing a larger BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A white letter tires measuring 33×10.50RT15LT tires which fit comfortably inside the wheel wells. The restoration on this FJ40 was completed approximately 10 years ago and used rather sparingly ever since. With all new body bushing, engine and transmission mounts, new fuel lines and gas tank, fully rebuilt brake system with new hoses, rebuilt front calipers, new pads and rotors, all new stainless steel body hardware, polished stainless hood and windshield hooks, new aluminized side exit exhaust system, all new weather stripping and window seals, interior floor covering, new upholstery throughout, and (hard to believe) so much more. This example doesn’t disappoint once in the driver’s seat either. With a preferred Weber carburetor conversion and powerful Yellow Top Optima sealed gel-style battery, it literally starts with a flick of the key. Be gratified further with instant throttle response, smooth clutch engagement through all gears, reliable and stout brakes, well balanced tires, and fully functional accessories including the air conditioning system. Included with this impressive unit will be the owner’s manual, winch operating instructions and winch remote control.