1978 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40
1978 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40
Few vehicles enjoy the global reputation, durability, and cultural significance of the Toyota Land Cruiser. Introduced in the early 1950s, it rapidly established itself as one of the world's most capable and dependable off-road vehicles, trusted everywhere from remote agricultural regions to military and humanitarian operations. Among its many iterations, the FJ40 series produced from 1960 through the early 1980s remains the most celebrated, prized for its timeless proportions, mechanical honesty, and near-indestructible engineering.
Presented in excellent condition following a comprehensive nut-and-bolt restoration completed approximately five years ago. The restoration saw the vehicle stripped to bare metal, with the chassis blasted, primed, and repainted, and the body receiving a full respray by a marque specialist in Asia. OEM components are retained throughout, and photographic documentation of the restoration is included within the history file. Minor cosmetic signs consistent with light use since restoration are present but do little to detract from the quality of the work.
Mechanically, the FJ40 benefits from several sympathetic upgrades that enhance drivability without compromising originality. These include Toyota FJ60 power steering, servo-assisted brakes retaining the original front and rear drum configuration, Nippon Denso air conditioning, Aisin front locking hubs, dual steering dampers, and a front anti-roll bar. Aside from these discreet improvements, the vehicle remains fundamentally original, retaining its matching-numbers engine, original three-speed manual transmission, and two/four-wheel-drive transfer case. The odometer currently displays 65,000 km, though it is believed to have rolled over once, indicating a total mileage of approximately 165,000 km.
Recently imported and registered in the UK, this Land Cruiser has benefited from recommissioning work including a complete brake service (new shoes, wheel cylinders, adjustment and bleeding), new handbrake cable and parking brake shoes, steering idler overhaul, fresh engine oil and filter, new Bilstein shock absorbers front and rear, new spark plugs, and timing and points adjustment. An invoice totalling £862 documents this work. Supporting documentation is on file, along with the V5 registration document and original Indonesian registration papers and a current MoT test certificate valid until September 2026.
The interior remains particularly appealing, retaining its original seats, factory vinyl upholstery, dashboard controls, and speedometer. Period-appropriate seagrass carpets have been added along with a discreet modern audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, amplifier, under-seat subwoofer, and rear speakers have been installed. On the road, the FJ40 is reported to drive exceptionally well, with strong braking performance, a smooth clutch, and stable motorway cruising at 60mph.
Offered by a knowledgeable vendor and enthusiast with experience in Land Cruiser ownership, this example represents a rare opportunity to acquire a meticulously restored, well-documented, and thoughtfully upgraded FJ40, combining authenticity with usability. A timeless and increasingly collectible Japanese classic, it is certain to be a head-turner wherever it appears and a rewarding addition to any serious collection. Consigned by Baljit Singh
Lot details
Year: 1978
Make: Toyota
Model: Land Cruiser FJ40
Registration: XUX 738S
Chassis No: FJ40277667
Odometer: 65,000km
* Authentic legendary 4x4 Japanese classic
* Extensively restored and tastefully upgraded example
* Fully road-ready and usable with rare matching-numbers authenticity
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