PICK OF THE DAY: Nicely Restored Toyota FJ55 Land Cruiser

With one of the longest continuous running nameplates on the planet, the legend of the Toyota Land Cruiser transcends rubber, glass and steel. From its roots as a military service vehicle to the country-club chariots we know today, it has always been a vehicle capable of taking on just about anything it was presented with. Somewhere in the middle of its lifecycle was the FJ55, the first Land Cruiser specifically designed as a wagon which, along with the Land Rover 107 and Jeep Cherokee, could be called the first SUVs. The FJ55, while considerably better appointed than the military BJs which preceded it, did not lose sight of its purpose as a durable and dependable go-anywhere vehicle. With seating up to six and a cavernous cargo area, the FJ55 was no stranger to African Safaris and humanitarian organizations that sent teams to remote areas. By today’s standards, it is rather spartan, but no less capable and plenty comfortable cruising at 60 MPH, whether in pursuit of adventure or schlepping IKEA cartons. Their drivetrains are bombproof and simple to repair and maintain. Bodies, unfortunately, are less so. Although the construction is a heavy-weight steel (total weight of the FJ55 is around two tons), corrosion is a common issue, particularly around wheels wells and the bottoms of doors. Bondo and other fillers are seldom an option as the rust is usually more pervasive than one or two corroded spots. Typically the affected panel needs to be cut away and replaced altogether. With few dry donor cars, there’s a price to be paid both in dollars and effort. Unless these kinds of projects interest you, it’s always best to buy one that’s either been in a dry climate and completely rust-free or one that’s been restored properly. Neither is cheap. They are sought after and can fetch $50,000 or more. Today’s example appears to be a quality restoration with everything but the original radio preserved per factory spec. As a 1974, it has the 125-hp 3.9 litre F motor with tree-climbing 209 torques. 1974 was also the first year for the 4-speed transmission; the additional gear providing better on-road drivability. Its Capri Blue/White scheme is both timeless and vintage. Furthermore, the sale includes several add-on parts, should the next owner choose to divert from originality. Some of these are quite pricey if bought individually, including an Old Man Emu lift kit, power steering conversion, disc brake conversion, mud tires with extra wheels, and a VintageAir AC system. Its a truck someone can play around with for a long time. And given the FJ55’s durability, “long” may not have limits. Find it here on Craigslist in Matthews NC for a relative bargain $20,000.