Toyota’s Land Cruiser sport utility vehicle is the longest-lived model in the company’s history. The first, developed from Jeep specifications, went into production in 1951. Larger than the Jeep, and more powerful with a six-cylinder engine, the initial models, called “Toyota Jeep BJ”, became immediately popular. The name Land Cruiser, coined by technical director Hanji Umehara in 1954, evoked the spirit of the British Land Rover, which had also acquired a sterling reputation in Asia.

A second generation, the J20, was introduced in 1955. A more powerful 3.9-litre F-type engine was added, synchronised gears on third and top made driving more pleasant, and the bodywork was given softer lines.

The best-known model, the FJ40, dates from 1960. The engine now produced 125 brake horsepower. A two-speed transfer case was added to the three-speed gearbox, giving six forward ratios and two in reverse. For 1974, a four-speed gearbox was fitted. Through 1984, more than a million were built. The J70, introduced that year, gave the Land Cruiser a totally new look and mechanical specification. This made the FJ40 into an instant classic, and it remains so today.

This Land Cruiser was registered as a new vehicle in Rome on 1 January 1973. The original owner used it as a service vehicle for his summer camp at Abruzzo on the Adriatic coast for 25 years. It was taken out of service for restoration in 1998, but the project was never finished. The current owner acquired it at the beginning of 2015 and commenced the restoration, which was completed in June 2016. The body was stripped and repainted in gloss white, while the engine compartment was detailed, with all ancillaries restored or replaced as necessary. The seats are upholstered in black vinyl with white piping, and black rubber mats line the floor.

Included are photographs before, during, and after the restoration, and invoice documentation totalling in excess of €17.000.

FJ40 Land Cruisers have a loyal and devoted following. This is a chance to acquire a nice example, perfect for summer cruising.