1978 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40

Technical Information

Lot Number:8058

Year:1978

Make:Toyota

Model:Land Cruiser FJ40

Mileage:84229 mi TMU

Drivetrain:4WD

VIN:FJ40272914

Transmission:Manual

Engine:4.2-liter (4230cc) 2F inline-six

Body Style:SUV/Crossover

Location:St Louis, MO 63146

Title Status:Clean

Seller:HymanLtd

Seller Type:Dealer

Exterior Color:Olive Green

Interior Color:Black

Seller's Introduction

Toyota’s legendary Land Cruiser hardly needs an introduction. From its arrival in 1951 through today, the Land Cruiser has been the vehicle of choice for traversing the wilds of Africa, crossing the desolate Australian Outback, or navigating snowy urban streets. Toyota applied the Land Cruiser name to a wide variety of vehicles, ranging from utilitarian to luxurious, and virtually every variation can lay claim to legions of loyal fans. However, the FJ40 stands proudly at the top of the heap and is recognized as the most iconic and widely adored member of the Land Cruiser family.

This 1978 FJ40 is a superb example fresh from a nut-and-bolt, ground-up restoration by a marque specialist. An original U.S. spec truck, desirably equipped with a hardtop and ambulance doors, this Land Cruiser is finished to a very high standard and features several carefully selected updates to improve its everyday usability. Photos from the restoration show the body was restored using an original all-steel Toyota tub, with other rust-free original panels sourced as needed. After repairs, the body was completely stripped and coated inside and underneath with textured Raptor liner for an additional layer of weather protection and sound deadening. It was then painted in the period correct shade of Olive Green (Code 653) using PPG paint for an authentic, factory-quality finish. The body received all new OE Toyota rubber gaskets, seals, and emblems, and it rides on new Toyota OEM steel wheels, painted the correct shade of gray, and fitted with chunky 33 x 10.50-15 BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/As for the perfect, purposeful off-road stance.

Inside, the cabin is restored to better-than-new standards, with factory-correct black vinyl upholstery on the seats and door panels, rubber floor liners, and superb detailing everywhere you look. The instrument panel is restored with refurbished gauges, switches, and controls, and the knobs and vents for the new Vintage Air Gen 3 A/C system integrate nicely into the fascia. Additional soft trim items such as the headliner, sun visors, and dash pad are new and correct to factory specs.

Mechanically, this FJ is in superb condition, with virtually no fastener left unturned during the restoration. The 2F engine was tested, inspected, cleaned, resealed, and topped with a reconditioned cylinder head. Ancillaries, including the alternator and exhaust system, are new, and the chassis features later-model Toyota “mini-truck” power steering. The suspension is by Old Man Emu, with new springs, shocks, greaseable shackles, stainless steel brake lines, and polyurethane bushings. Additionally, the front and rear axles were rebuilt with new bearings, gaskets, and seals.

As his tenth complete body-off project, the restorer applied his years of experience to this meticulously thorough restoration, which shows in every facet of this superb FJ40. The attention to detail and well-integrated modern amenities makes it effortless to drive and remarkably comfortable to use in all manner of conditions – on or off the beaten path.

Features & Options

Celebrated 1978 Toyota FJ40, widely regarded as the most iconic member of the Land Cruiser family, fresh from a nut-and-bolt, ground-up restoration by a marque specialist.
Original U.S.-spec truck with desirable hardtop and ambulance doors, restored using an all-steel Toyota tub and rust-free OEM panels for authenticity and structural integrity.
Body stripped, repaired, and coated inside and underneath with textured Raptor liner for enhanced weather resistance and sound insulation, then refinished in period-correct Olive Green (Code 653) using PPG paint.
All new OE Toyota rubber gaskets, seals, and emblems installed; rides on correctly refinished Toyota OEM steel wheels wrapped in 33 x 10.50-15 BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/As for a classic, purposeful stance.
Interior restored to factory-fresh condition with black vinyl upholstery, rubber floor liners, refurbished gauges and switches, and a cleanly integrated Vintage Air Gen 3 A/C system.
Mechanical systems comprehensively renewed, including tested and resealed 2F engine with reconditioned head, new alternator, new exhaust, and upgraded Toyota “mini-truck” power steering.
Old Man Emu suspension with new springs, shocks, greaseable shackles, stainless steel brake lines, and polyurethane bushings; axles rebuilt with new bearings, gaskets, and seals.
A highly detailed, tenth body-off project for the specialist, showcasing refined craftsmanship and well-chosen upgrades that make this FJ40 exceptionally comfortable and capable on or off the road.

Modifications

This FJ40 benefits from several well-chosen modifications that enhance everyday usability without compromising its classic character. A Vintage Air Gen 3 A/C system is seamlessly integrated into the cabin, providing modern climate control. The chassis is upgraded with Toyota “mini-truck” power steering for lighter, more precise maneuvering, while an Old Man Emu suspension package—with new springs, shocks, and greaseable shackles—delivers improved ride quality on and off the pavement. Rugged 33 x 10.50-15 BF Goodrich All-Terrain tires complete the setup, giving the truck a confident, capable stance suited to modern driving.

Service Records

This restoration included extensive mechanical service, with the 2F engine inspected, tested, cleaned, and resealed, along with a reconditioned cylinder head and new ancillary components such as the alternator and exhaust system. Both front and rear axles were fully rebuilt with new bearings, gaskets, and seals, and the suspension, steering, and braking systems were renewed with premium components. The project is supported by detailed restoration photos and documentation, providing clear evidence of the comprehensive work performed and the meticulous care taken throughout the process.

Ownership History & Provenance

This FJ40 began life as a U.S.-spec example and was later acquired by a marque specialist who undertook a complete, body-off restoration as his tenth full-scale project. Under his stewardship, the truck was rebuilt to an exceptionally high standard, both cosmetically and mechanically. Since completion, it has been carefully maintained and sparingly used, benefiting from enthusiast ownership that prioritized preservation and proper upkeep.

Known Shortcomings

Sotheby's Motorsport presents this auction in partnership with the seller. This 1978 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 shows wear consistent with its age and restored condition according to a seller’s disclosure. Please review the entire document by clicking "Seller's Disclosure" above.

There have been minor paint touch-ups on the hood hinges. See photos.

Please click the “Contact Seller” button to reach out with any condition-specific questions. This vehicle is sold where-is, as-is, and bidder is responsible for all due diligence regarding vehicle condition.

Items included in the Sale

Factory literature (i.e. an owner's manual)
1 key fob
Photos from a prior refurbishment or restoration

1978 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40