1981 TOYOTA FJ40 LAND CRUISER

This Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser is a well-presented example of the Japanese workhorse, benefiting from evident mechanical and cosmetic refurbishment. Its engine is a 4.2-litre straight-six petrol, producing approximately 135bhp and 210lb-ft of torque, driving all four wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox and low-range transfer case. The odometer reads 264,000 km (164,041 miles).

First registered on 1 March 1981, this FJ40 has been owned by the current owner since April 2019. He acquired the car without any prior service history paperwork, but there is a dating letter from the Toyota Enthusiasts Club that confirms it is a Japanese-built FJ. Based on the condition, the owner believes it has received a chassis-off restoration in the not-too-distant past, though an inspection is encouraged so that bidders can judge for themselves.

This FJ40 also features some subtle but easily reversible upgrades. A WARN 10,000lb winch has been fitted, along with modified shackle and springs to give a higher ride height. Sound deadening also features on the firewall, with a tailor-made grey floor lining fitted to match the seats and door cards.

Presented in glossy blue paintwork, the Land Cruiser’s finish presents well with only minor marking. There is a small rust bubble beside the driver’s door jamb, as well as a paint chip on the inner edge of the bonnet where it has evidently been shut by accident with something in the way. The owner has also spotted a hairline crack in the paint on the bonnet’s leading edge.

Nevertheless, this rugged 4x4 presents very well, with its contrasting white roof, badging and light lenses all in good order. There are some scratches on the door window glass, which can be seen in the photos. It rides on original 15-inch steel wheels with chromed hubcaps and free-lock hubs.

Inside, the Land Cruiser has been fitted with front seats from a later model, which have much more adjustment and comfort than the original bench seats specified for the car. The owner reports that the air-conditioning system has recently been overhauled by a previous owner and is working perfectly. The interior has been re-trimmed with grey vinyl, which is in good condition with no obvious rips or tears to the fabric.

Being one of the second series 2F petrol FJ40s, this example has the petrol tank under the car and a floor-mounted handbrake, giving more legroom for taller drivers. Load-lugging capability is boosted by the ‘double barn doors’ and folding side seats, making this a practical classic.

There are no major electrical issues apparent to the owner, though he advises that the indicators and hazard light switch have stopped working – likely due to a fuse or sticky hazard switch – and that it currently requires a new speedometer as the needle has broken on the original. The owner has only used the FJ in dry weather and has kept it garaged. Parked outside for the first time during the recent storms, there was some minor water ingress noted on the cabin floor liner.

The Toyota was recently fitted with a new battery in the summer, and prior to this was given new spark plugs, HT leads and antifreeze by the owner in summer 2019. Other than this maintenance, it has also received a replacement heater unit.

The first UK MOT test was on 9 July 2019 at 243,037 km (151,016 miles). This resulted in a first-time pass with zero advisories. Due to the COVID-19 MOT extension, it does not require a retest until 8 January 2021. The owner states that there is ample tread on the Hankook MT Dynapro tyres, including on the spare wheel.

This classic 4x4 will be supplied with its most recent MOT certificate and V5 document, as well as confirmation from the Toyota Enthusiasts Club that this is a Japanese-built FJ40. As there is no service history or invoices with the vehicle, the owner of course welcomes inspections on behalf of prospective buyers.

This Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser is a rugged and practical classic car, presenting a unique alternative to the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen. It could be a useful workhorse, or simply driven and enjoyed as a charismatic retro truck.

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 through HPI checks and MOT history. 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.

Car Overview

  • 264,000 km (164,041 miles)
  • manual
  • RHD
  • Blue
  • Grey
  • 4.2L
  • VINFJ40338162


Any questions?

WhatsApp us

Lot Overview

  • Lot #01567
  • private Sale
  • Hambrook, West Sussex, United Kingdom

Seller

Own a similar Toyota?

Sell it with us

gallery  (100)

1981 TOYOTA FJ40 LAND CRUISER1981 TOYOTA FJ40 LAND CRUISER1981 TOYOTA FJ40 LAND CRUISER1981 TOYOTA FJ40 LAND CRUISER1981 TOYOTA FJ40 LAND CRUISER1981 TOYOTA FJ40 LAND CRUISER1981 TOYOTA FJ40 LAND CRUISER1981 TOYOTA FJ40 LAND CRUISER
  • List for FREE
  • Sell for FREE
  • Hassle Free
Sell with Us