For Sale: 1978 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ in Lutz, Florida

This 1978 Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser continues to properly represent the rugged voyager appearance and quality that has made it an icon. But this one is also a bit different. You can also see from the shine of the paint, cleanliness of the undercarriage, and fit of the full package that there has been a big restoration investment in making sure this one will be as impressive at the campsite as it will be at the car show.


One look at this 4x4 and you just want to go on an expedition. After all, the Butterscotch paint looks like it's already wearing its African safari khakis. And the white roof with white grille gives this a subtle two-tone. It all looks terrific thanks to a solid restoration investment. You can tell the idea was not to take this 4x4 to a wild extreme, but instead, it makes sure that it really evokes your nostalgia for this iconic style. You see this attention to detail in all the tough-as-nails features, like the steel bumpers, Warn locking hubs, and full-size spare mounted to the unique dual rear half doors with hatch. So more than just looking like a correct classic, this one will hold up to scrutiny by the ficklest enthusiasts. And we love how the upgrades are only about giving you more ability. The off-road high-lift jack, tow hitch, the Curt front tow bar, and front lockbox are all ready for the adventurer lifestyle.


Inside is more of the time capsule feeling. Clean floors, good plastics, and the iconic rear jump seats are exactly what you want. Plus, the classic thin and grippy steering wheel with the correct Toyota center cap feels great in your hands. As you gaze over the dash, everything from the speedometer (in kilometers) to the four-wheel-drive instructions are correct and crisp. And just like the exterior, this classic has been upgraded, but in the right ways for a proper adventurer. You have rugger rubber floor coverings, including in the rear. So you can fold up the jump seats to carry cargo or even just to display some products in this sharp-looking FJ. The front bucket seats have covers that also allow for storage on the seatbacks. These covers not only help keep the seats protected, but if you decide to remove the hardtop, it also makes it nicer on your legs if you hop in on a sunny day. And if you do enjoy the open-air lifestyle, the cup holder center console also doubles as a lockbox to keep your valuables.


Just like the rest of the vehicle, the engine bay has been given extra attention to taking its appearance back to day one. The FJ40 Land Cruiser was such a capable machine that it was in production for nearly a quarter-century, but not all were created equal. A later example like this one has some of the best driving features. For example, you get the same F-series inline-six motor that has been the backbone of Toyota toughness, but in these later Land Cruisers, it has been enlarged to 4.2-liters. You are in full control of the motor with the three-speed manual transmission. It even has new components like the transmission seals, clutch, and flywheel. Plus, power brakes with new brake lines add to the driver confidence. The two-speed transfer case and off-road tires allow this impressive classic to still live up to its go-anywhere reputation. But as you look underneath, the ultra-clean undercarriage proves that this 4x4 has led a charmed life since its restoration.


This is the classic FJ that really loves to show off why it's a legend. So if you're looking for a true classic and a true 4x4, call today!