Toyota first developed the BJ series of all-terrain vehicles in 1951. The initial version was built at the request of the U.S. military for an all-wheel drive utility vehicle to be used by soldiers and military police stationed in Japan. Regular production did not commence until 1953, from which point forward the vehicles were constantly upgraded and refined. The Land Cruiser name appeared starting in 1954, with the Series 20 introduced in 1954 and the Series 40 in 1960. U.S. imports began in 1963. They became the best-selling Toyotas in the United States during the mid-1960s.

As time passed, Land Cruisers were offered in various wheelbases along with several different styles including pickup, hard- and soft-top configurations, and a station wagon with seating up to seven passengers. Initially powered by a 125-horsepower “F” 3.9-liter inline six-cylinder engine, Land Cruisers received an upgraded powerplant to “2F” 4.2-liter capacity producing 135 horsepower beginning in 1975. Today, they are hot collectibles as part of the burgeoning interest in vintage four-wheel drive vehicles, with their legendary build quality and no-nonsense aesthetics.

This remarkable Land Cruiser is the beneficiary of a photo-documented, frame-off, nut-and-bolt restoration to original condition. It has been meticulously prepared using original NOS parts and has been finished in the factory-correct shade of Beige with white roof and black vinyl interior to exhausting standards by the consignor. Over 350 photos are available upon request, validating the attention to detail with which the vehicle has been restored. Beginning in November 1975 (for the 1976 model year), FJ40s were supplied with power-assisted front disc brakes, and this Land Cruiser is equipped accordingly. Power is delivered by a 4.2-liter overhead-valve six-cylinder engine producing 135 horsepower with a stump-pulling 210 foot-pounds of torque at just 1,800 rpm.

This FJ40 is an outstanding vehicle in all respects, and beautifully restored examples are becoming must-haves for serious collectors. Not only are they rugged for off-road use, but they are also reliable to serve as daily drivers for fashion-conscious owners. This example is restored to an outstanding level of precision, impressive in every detail, and must be seen and driven to be fully appreciated.