1989 TOYOTA 4RUNNER - FRAME OFF RESTORATION

This 1989 Toyota 4Runner is a stunning example of the first generation of the rugged SUV, presented in time-warp condition following a scrupulous restoration. Under the bonnet sits a 2.4-litre EFI inline-four producing around 116hp, coupled with a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows 1,798km, which is the mileage since the restoration.

First registered in April 1989 to Switzerland – where it remains – this 4Runner has been with its current keeper for one year, who notes that a vast amount of money has been spent to restore this 4x4 with period-correct components, and to a striking as-new finish.

The accident-free bodywork of this 4Runner presents in excellent condition, having been stripped and reconditioned during the frame-off restoration process. The panels were re-assembled superbly, now presenting with flush shut lines and even gaps. The resprayed black paintwork has a deep glossy shine, featuring red decals across the door and rear wing panels. All of the brightwork is also in exceptional condition. The car rides on a set of 15-inch wheels, which appear pristine on all four corners.

In the cabin, the re-trimmed grey fabric upholstery is in excellent condition, with undamaged seat bases and bolsters, and immaculate carpets, which extend through the lower door cards. Its specification remains entirely original, even retaining the factory-fitted stereo, and all of the controls work as they should. The rear is in similar condition, with unmarked upholstery throughout. Moving to the rear storage area, the grey carpet is in very good order, and the four original lashing points remain present for securing heavy loads.

As part of the recent restoration work, the engine and the gearbox were fully rebuilt, and no maintenance or repairs have been required during the current ownership. Its last roadworthiness inspection was carried out in February 2020, with the vendor advising there were – unsurprisingly – no warnings or alerts about the condition.

The vehicle rides on a set of Toyo Open Country tyres, which are as-new on all four corners. Accompanying the vehicle are the original owner’s handbook and some invoices. The car holds ‘veteran’ status within Switzerland, accompanied by an Oldtimer certificate from the government that is hard to obtain.

This Toyota 4Runner is a fully restored 1980s 4x4, which benefits from a rebuilt engine and gearbox, and completely refurbished and repainted bodywork. The vendor believes it is quite possibly the only 4Runner to ever have been treated to such an exhaustive restoration, and as such it would be an incredible addition to any Toyota collection, or a wider assembly of modern classics.

The vendor is happy to assist with shipping where needed, and prospective buyers should satisfy themselves as to the import, duty and tax requirements necessary in their own country to bring in a car from Switzerland.

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 where available. 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.

As this car is not UK-registered, it cannot be run through Collecting Cars’ standard online HPI check process.