1975 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40

Description

A super example of this iconic Japanese 4x4; 4.2 straight-six petrol engine; power steering; front disc brakes; air con; high- and low-range gears; eats Land Rovers for breakfast!

Much like our own dear Land Rover, the 1950 Toyota Jeep BJ was inspired by the US Willys Jeep of World War Two. Produced at the behest of the American military (who were effectively in charge of Japan’s post-war economy), the BJ proved its worth in the Korean War and was further developed as the Land Cruiser for police and civilian use from 1954 onwards.  

The J40 Series came out in 1960 and evolved gradually over the next few decades, quickly becoming Toyota’s best-selling vehicle in America. In fact the importance of the FJ40 to Toyota cannot be overstated – exported worldwide, it established the brand as a global force to be reckoned with and cemented a reputation for build quality and reliability which Toyota still trades on to this day.

Dating from 1975, this FJ40 two-door soft-top has the indestructible F-Series 4.2 straight-six petrol engine (135bhp/210lb/ft) mated to three-speed manual transmission with low-range transfer case for enhanced off-road ability.

One of three RHD examples that our vendor imported from Indonesia last year, it has various desirable features including front disc brakes, free-wheeling front hubs, power steering and working air conditioning (hence the fan/radiator underneath). A modern CD player is also fitted along with some impressive looking speakers behind the front seats.

There is very little history with the vehicle apart from some fairly recent Indonesian service cards (see last three photos) but it certainly has the look of a well-maintained machine and has probably been restored at some point in the not-too-distant past.

The no-nonsense interior looks to be in good shape, the grey vinyl seat covers all look relatively new, as do the rubber floor mats and the canvas soft-top. The bodywork and chassis look reassuringly solid and the pale green paint finish is generally very smart apart from a couple of minor blemishes here and there.

Our vendor has gone right through the truck to ensure that it runs well, including fitting a new carb, fitting new plugs and points, cleaning out the fuel system and fitting a manual choke. It has been starting promptly and running well as we have moved it around on site, with a healthy-sounding engine and pleasingly light steering.

All import duties have been paid and it is now UK registered as KCD 177N, the V5C recording it as a Historic Vehicle so it is MOT-exempt and free to tax. The Indonesian Vehicle Registration Certificate is also present.   

The FJ40 has established a cult following in recent years and values have risen strongly, particularly in America where good ones routinely fetch way more than the guide price suggested here. This example certainly looks to be one of the good ones and no doubt has at least another 50 years of useful life ahead of it. In fact it will probably outlive us all...

PS: Although it might look in the photos as if the rear exhaust silencer is holed, this is NOT the case, it is just paint that has flaked off and the metal is solid.

For more information contact James on 07970 309907 or email james.dennison@brightwells.com