Vehicle Description
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a vehicle that practically defines
dependability. Since their inception in the 1950s, Toyota's storied
off-roaders have been proven in some of the harshest conditions
imaginable, and over the course of six decades, the Land Cruiser
name has become a benchmark for reliability. It likely comes as
little surprise to learn that the concept for the Land Cruiser was
inspired by the American Jeep. In 1950, the US Government
commissioned Toyota to build 100 Willys Jeeps for use by the
Military Police during the Korean War. Toyota obliged but
immediately saw room for improvement on the old American design. In
1951 Toyota developed their own prototype which drew on the best
the Jeep had to offer but with numerous improvements and
refinements. Production of the "Toyota Jeep BJ" began in 1953 and
the vehicle was put into service primarily for police and military
use. In 1954, the civilian version gained the Land Cruiser name,
becoming a welcome tool for farming, construction, industry, or
anywhere else a rugged all-purpose truck was needed to traverse
difficult terrain. In 1960, the 40-series Land Cruiser was unveiled
with all-new body styling, an improved chassis and new engine
options including gasoline and diesel power. The 40-series and its
derivatives remained in regular production for 24 years, earning
its place as a legend for its unbreakable nature as much as its
tough-guy good looks. In the 3+ decades since production of the 40
series ended, these trucks remain highly collectible and have
spawned an entire sub-culture within the classic car world. The
FJ40 is simply one of the greatest vehicles of all time. We are
pleased to offer this truly outstanding, exquisitely restored 1968
Land Cruiser FJ40 Hardtop. Subject of a ground up, nut-and-bolt
restoration performed by marque experts, this FJ features several
subtle upgrades to improve the driving experience. Finished in
Heath Gray (Toyota code 113) with a white roof, the paint quality
is outstanding, detailed to factory-fresh standards, with a look
that is very authentic without appearing over-restored. Period
accessories include rubber bumper guards and original fog lamps.
Panel fit is consistent and factory appropriate. As with most
FJ40s, the hard top can be removed, and the body features the split
tailgate with swing-out rear doors. It rides on painted steel
wheels with polished stainless early-type dog-dish hubcaps. The
wheels wear aggressive Firestone Super All Traction tires that give
a vintage look but are upsized slightly to fill the wheel wells and
provide a bit more clearance should you decide to hit the trails.
The chassis has been fully restored to a similarly high standard as
the body. Suspension has been fully rebuilt, giving a very slight
lift to allow for the larger tires. The frame and major components
have been painted or powder coated with the same fastidious care
given to the body and it remains in very clean and tidy condition,
showing only minimal use. The stout and torquey F145 3.9 liter
inline six runs strong, starting readily and sending power through
the original-type 3-speed manual gearbox. The engine is pleasingly
detailed with appropriate hardware and fittings, while the only
obvious deviation from stock is the addition of the A/C compressor
which has been integrated and plumbed to give a factory-look.
Another welcome upgrade comes in the form of a discreet electric
power steering system with an adjustable assist feature that is
adjusted via a dash mounted rheostat. The finely restored interior
retains the original FJ's purity and simplicity, but with subtle
upgrades that include custom tailored floor coverings and an
under-dash A/C unit. The front 60/40 bench seat and twin rear
jump-seats are trimmed in high quality charcoal upholstery as
original. Period touches include a solid-state radio, correct rear
hatch stays, OEM switches and original steering wheel. The restored
original jack is in place in the under-seat storage box while the
jack handle and tire tools are fitted in the rear compartment as
correct. This FJ40 is an outstanding example in attractive colors
that captures the essence of what makes these trucks so desirable,
while affording the driver some welcome improvements to comfort and
drivability without sacrificing the purity of the original design.
Still fresh from its 2017 restoration, it is ready to serve as a
loyal companion exploring trails, on fishing excursions, or simply
for casual trips around town.
