Toyota launched the FJ40 series in 1960. Initially a copy of the famed WWII era jeep, official importation to the United States began in 1963, and within two years the FJ40 Land Cruiser was the best-selling Toyota in America. Cosmetically, the FJ was essentially the same truck until it went out of production in 1983, but it saw a gradual progression of functional improvements and upgrades over the years, shifting from being a bare-bones rock hopper to a more comfortable vehicle, equally at home on the highway and on rough terrain.

Prior to present ownership, this 1974 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 was comprehensively refurbished by Legend 4×4 in South Salt Lake, Utah. Finished in Cement Grey with a white removable hardtop, the body features a replacement aluminum tub, a hood and aprons sourced from other FJ40s, reproduction fenders, and a custom, fold-down tailgate. The body-colored interior is well finished and charmingly spartan, as all FJ40s were in period, with front bucket seats and inward-facing rear benches retrimmed with vinyl upholstery.

A 4.2-liter 2F inline six-cylinder engine sourced from a Toyota FJ60 elevates performance over that of the FJ40’s stock inline-six and is paired with a four-speed manual transmission and two-speed transfer case. Other tasteful upgrades designed to improve driving dynamics include an Old Man Emu suspension that adds a reasonable 2.5-inch lift and a beefed-up steering stabilizer. The 15-inch black steel wheels with 33-inch BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A tires enhance the rugged appeal without going overboard.

Eminently capable off-road and on, this FJ40 has been tastefully upgraded for improved driving dynamics and comfort while deftly preserving its period charm and enduring appeal, making for a classic ride that can truly be appreciated by vintage collectors and offroad enthusiasts alike.