The first BJ Series Toyotas were created in 1951 at the behest of the U.S. Army, which asked Toyota to build an all-terrain-capable light utility vehicle similar to the newest version of the WWII Jeep. The Land Cruiser name first appeared in 1954, and with its well-earned reputation for toughness, quality, and longevity, the “L-C” would soon become the vehicle of choice for difficult terrain all over the world. It was that same tough use and extreme environment to which Land Cruisers were subjected that also created a noteworthy lack of undamaged original examples.

The FJ40’s reputation and proof of its durability have encouraged first-class restorations like the vehicle offered here. After an exhaustive search for the ideal, unmolested original California car, the consignor, a premier West Coast FJ40 specialist, dedicated the next three years to the study and restoration of this pristine example. Taking advantage of the dwindling supply of original spares, everything possible was replaced with authentic NOS Toyota parts, down to the nuts, bolts, and washers. The body-off restoration included meticulous metal finishing of all body panels, and it was then finished in Dune Beige (T-416) with a Cygnus White (T-012) top, which was also disassembled and restored with the correct factory rivets. The entire drivetrain, as well as the cooling and electrical systems, were rebuilt with NOS parts, including new electrical switches and wiring harness. The interior and exterior were also refinished in accurate detail, without being over-restored but also leaving no stone unturned.

Extremely well optioned over its baseline brethren, this FJ40 features such desirable accessories as the ultra-rare factory Power Take Off (PTO) winch, an accessory overdrive transmission for comfortable modern highway travel, and the reassuring safety of four-wheel power disc brakes. The grille has a historically accurate 1968 Del Monte Forest grille badge and residence gate pass for 17-Mile Drive in Monterey. The correct black license plate is fitted, and even the license frame is from Cypress Coast, a Monterey Peninsula import dealer from the period. The restoration has been very well documented by the consignor, including a professional photo book, detailed restoration photos, and the NOS package labeling for the parts used.

The FJ40 is an excellent vehicle in every regard, and examples are quickly becoming highly desirable to collectors worldwide. They are rugged enough to be used off-road yet versatile enough to be used around town, and as with other Land Cruisers of this era, the FJ40 boasts loads of character. This example truly needs nothing, and it would be the ideal weekend conveyance for the outdoorsman with an eye for quality and perfection.