Description

1970 Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser – As a Japanese copy of the famed WWII era jeep and with origins dating to the Korean War era, Toyota launched the FJ40 series utility vehicle in 1960. Official importation to the U.S. began in 1963, and within two years the FJ40 Land Cruiser was hands down the best-selling Toyota in America. Cosmetically, the FJ was essentially the same truck until it went out of production in 1983, barring minor trim tweaks; however, it saw a gradual progression of functional improvements and upgrades over the years, shifting from being a bare-bones rock hopper to a commensurately equipped modern SUV 30 years ahead of the curve. The FJ40 was available as open-bodied or fully enclosed two-door wagon, or the longer wheelbase FJ45 could be had as a two-door or four-door wagon, in addition to a two-door pickup (although they were rarely sold in the U.S. due to the 25 percent “Chicken Tax” on light duty cargo trucks). The FJ45 gave way to the FJ55 in 1967, which for all intents and purposes was the birth of the modern Highlander—a truck-based, fully styled wagon with an emphasis on comfort over utility. As FJ40s reached the secondary market, it became very common for owners to take on engine swaps, most notably by replacing the FJ’s stock six with a small block Chevy V-8. The Chevy engine certainly yielded more power, but Toyota’s six-cylinder was essentially a reverse-engineered 235-cid Stovebolt six Chevrolet engine that was indestructible. This is part and parcel why stock power trains will continue to pull big money—few are left versus a fleet of retrofits.

Sometimes you are just lucky enough to stumble on a classic that is the best of its breed. This immaculate FJ40 is a recent frame off build that has less than 300 miles since completion. Every nut, bolt, bracket and even the frame have been powder coated. This is like a brand new Land Cruiser from 1970 but even better. Recent upgrades include a conversion to a Weber 2-barrel carb and a high torque starter. The soft top is obviously custom, but the door hardware, glass, and full hard top all accompany the sale. We love the previous owners decision to outfit this FJ with a full tool kit including – shovel, axe, pickaxe, and hi-jack lift. It also features and new SmittyBuilt winch that has never been used. Additional features and options include, Inline 6 Cyl (155hp), Aluminum Radiator, 3 Speed Manual, 4×4, Rubber Floormats, Tow Hitch, Full Spare, 15″ White Steel Wheels, and New Scorpion MTR 31×10.5 R15LT Tires! The experts at Hagerty currently list the 1970 FJ40’s between $51-88k. We feel this example is very reasonably priced at $69,900 but will entertain serious offers. Financing and worldwide shipping are available so, skip the excuses and become an owner!