1976 TOYOTA FJ40 LAND CRUISER

This Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser is a dependable classic 4x4, which is presented in excellent, restored condition. Under the bonnet is the 4.2-litre straight-six, producing around 135hp and 210lb-ft of torque, which drives all four wheels via the three-speed manual gearbox and low-range transfer case.

First registered on 1 January 1976, this Japanese-market FJ40 is believed to have some interesting early provenance, with the fitment of a (remarkably loud) tsunami siren – suggesting that it may have been used by the Japanese coastguard.

Imported to the UK and registered with the DVLA in November 2018, the car is believed to have been subjected to a full, chassis-off rebuild, which would certainly explain its exceptional condition today. The previous owner had this Land Cruiser for around 18 months, and the current keeper acquired it via Collecting Cars six months ago. Since then, he has driven it sparingly, and the only change has been the fitment of classic style black-and-white number plates.

Presented in superb condition, the distinctive, utilitarian bodywork is free of any accident damage or corrosion. Resprayed during the car’s overhaul, the Dune Beige and white paintwork is smooth and glossy across the entire vehicle. As a 1976 model, it also benefits from the practical rear ‘barn doors’.

The exterior trim – including the badges, door handles and door mirrors – has a charming light patina, while all of the light lenses are bright and free of any chips or cracks. It rides on a correct set of 15-inch steel wheels, which have been painted in gloss grey, and the full-sized spare wheel and tyre are mounted to the rear of the truck. All five present very well.

On stepping into the interior, it becomes clear why the FJ40 Land Cruiser has its reputation as a dependable, ‘no frills’ off-roader. Free of any carpeting or headlining, the cabin has been fitted with rubber floor mats, while the front seats and folding rear benches have been re-trimmed in hardwearing black vinyl, which is in great shape.

Painted in the same colour as the vehicle’s exterior, the dashboard is accented by a silver passenger grab handle, instrument panel, and glovebox lid, which also features the original ‘gear shifting instructions’ plate. The large, thin-rimmed steering wheel is in very good condition, as are the manual window winders.

While interior amenities are limited, an aftermarket air-conditioning unit is understood to have been fitted when the car was new, helping to keep the driver and their passengers cool and comfortable during their adventures. All of the interior buttons, switches and electrical items work without fault.

Due to this FJ40 being a Japanese import, its service history is largely unknown. The seller states that a number of mechanical and electrical items have been recently replaced, including the complete clutch system, slave cylinder, master cylinder and hoses; the points, distributor cap, plugs, plug leads and coil; the temperature sender unit and thermostat, and the fuel lines. The engine oil and filter have also been changed, along with the transmission and transfer box fluids. The original steering system is still fitted to the car, so the next owner may wish to consider having power-assisted steering added if they plan to drive the car regularly.

Understood to be exempt on the basis of age, this FJ40’s last MOT test was conducted on 17 January 2019 at an indicated 68km, securing a first-time pass without any advisories. All four of the 7.50-15LT size tyres are described as being in excellent condition.

This Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser is a rugged and eminently usable 1970s 4x4, which has clearly been restored to a high standard both inside and out and is powered by the famously reliable 2F engine. A handsome example of a Japanese classic, this example wants for nothing and is sure to attract admiring glances wherever it goes.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.