1978 | 24k-Mile Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40
Overview
Looming large in popular memory as the original Land Cruiser, Toyota’s short-wheelbase FJ40 hit U.S. shores in 1960. Despite full-size domestic 4x4 mania of the 1970s, the 3-door truck soldiered on as a staple in Toyota’s American lineup through model year 1983. The Japanese icon built a reputation for unquestioned capability, durability, and value over more two decades of production.
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Incremental innovation characterized the 40-Series Land Cruiser’s steadfast tenure. Most notably, later model trucks featured versatile modernizations to engine and drivetrain. A 4-speed transmission was added in 1974 alongside a move to higher displacement the following year. 1975’s introduction of the 2F engine raised total output to 135hp. In another 12 months, front disc brakes arrived to wide acclaim. With looks largely unchanged, the rugged 4x4 won devotees around the globe, defying traditional expectations of service life.
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This unrestored 1978 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 presents as a true testament to the storied truck’s longevity. Finished in Mustard Yellow over a Black/Grey interior, time-capsule survivor condition abounds inside and out. This truck's White-roof removable top features pop-out rear windows, keeping jump seats out of the elements. Under the hood, a 2F engine routes power to all four wheels via two-speed transfer case and 4-speed manual shifting. Leaf-spring suspension cradles live axles front and rear, bookended by General Grabber A/T tires. Manual-locking front hubs and disc brakes provide sure-footed control in all conditions while a recently rebuilt carburetor feeds its healthy power plant. Showing just over 24k miles, this Land Cruiser is sold with a clean title and Seller’s Disclosure.
Features & Options
- Mustard Yellow w/White-Painted Roof
- 2F 4.2L Inline-Six Engine
- 4-Speed Manual Transmission
- High/Low-Range Transfer Case
- Front & Rear Live Axles
- Leaf-Spring Suspension
- Removable Hardtop w/Pop-Out Rear Windows
- Black Vinyl Rear Jump Seats
- 15" Steel Wheels
- Polished Hubcaps
- General Grabber All-Terrain Tires
Modifications
- Recovered Black Vinyl/Grey Cloth Front Seats
- Pioneer AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Receiver
- Alpine Front Door Speakers
- Rancho Shock Absorbers & Steering Stabilizer
Service Records
- Seller's Disclosure report
- Service records from current ownership
Ownership History & Provenance
Known Shortcomings
Items included in the Sale
- 2 Keys
- Owner's manual & service books
- Period literature
- Front bumper winch
- Original rear bumper-mounted gas can