1979 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ43

We are delighted to be offering for sale a superb example of the FJ43. Sold new we believe in Columbia, our seller purchased the car there from a reputable classic car dealer.

Clearly rejuvenated at some point in its recent life, our seller used the car extensively whilst staying in the South American country.

Having now returned to the UK, our seller decided to bring the FJ with him, and it arrived in the UK just a short time ago, whereupon it was properly registered and put through an MoT test, even though this was not required due to the vehicle’s historic status.

The canvas hood is of course removable for that wind-in the-hair feeling or just roll up the sides for a little extra fresh air. Either way, there is fun to be had.

Off-road adventures are another distinct possibility, the 4x4 system being one of the best produced. And let’s face it, Toyota Landcruisers of all generations are renowned for their indestructible nature and go-anywhere capabilities.

Our seller reports the FJ drives beautifully and has stated he would categorically go anywhere in it without fear of it breaking down.

The South American dry climate has clearly helped preserve the FJ and what we have before us is a rust-free example.

Clearly repainted by someone who new what he was doing, the beige paintwork is in excellent condition. Paired with a matching hood, a newish addition we guess, this Landcruiser is a head turner par excellence.

The painted wheels do boast some marks here and there. Our seller recently added a set of Toyo Open Country tyres, enhancing the FJ’s prowess of-road. They look the part too. You should also note the brand-new genuine Toyota hub cabs, a very hard to find item.

An older tyre is fitted to the spare wheel mounted externally on a swinging cradle.

The freewheeling hubs on the front are just that – free… and work as they should and can be activated easily by hand when required.

If we are being very picky, we can spot the odd blemish on the Landcruiser’s copybook such as a small area of damage to the windscreen rubber and the odd rusty Phillips screw head. The front bumper does have a few marks too.

Our seller has an opinion:

“This has not just had a load of new parts thrown on it calling it a major restoration that has not been used, tried or tested. As far as I can see it is just a well looked after vehicle with things being done as they developed.”

Our opinion is that it would take very little to turn this FJ into a show car if that is your thing. 

The front seats and door cards, grey in colour, have doubtlessly been renewed at some point and are in good condition. You sit high up, the spindly steering wheel and well used gear stick falling easily to hand. Simple instrumentation provides the essential information and no more.

There is a modern stereo which looks a tad out of place and the JVC door speakers are something we would look to change for something a bit more subtle and in keeping.

There are signs of the FJ’s 42-year life, with marks to some of the painted components, all clearly visible in our photographs. Patina is what they call it!

The extra length of the FJ43 allowed the fitting of longer benches in the rear for passengers. We guess four would fit comfortably, though the lack of seat belts etc might cause some concern.

Lift the bonnet and the much sought after F2 engine is clearly visible. Mated to a four-speed gearbox, this is a reliable and tried and tested combination.

The engine compartment itself is in good order, with plenty of room to work should the owner be the sort to carry out maintenance at home.

There is some surface rust visible on some components which the fastidious might wish to address.

In our photo gallery you will be able to see an assortment of pictures of the FJ’s underside. New suspension components are readily apparent as is the absence of any corrosion or surface rust. It’s that dry climate again…

All this bodes well for future ownership, though we would be tempted to sympathetically add some underseal in places, especially if the Landcruiser is to be used all year round.

We should also mention that our seller fitted a choke cable, missing on purchase, as apparently it was never needed in Columbia.

We have already told you that our seller bought the FJ from a reputable classic car dealer, but prior to that we have no details.

Unlikely to be an issue, as we are confident the vehicle’s excellent condition will speak for itself.

Our seller has driven the car extensively and remedied the few issues he discovered as well as replacing the tyres.

The MoT was carried out earlier this month and there were just two minor advisories. This should give any would be purchaser added confidence in the vehicle’s condition.

The Landcruiser FJ43 is a rare beast and this one is clearly an excellent example. Fun on a sunny day with the roof off, capable off-road or in wintery conditions, the FJ will delight whatever the weather or road conditions.

Sturdy, reliable and easy to maintain thanks to a good parts supply, we are confident that the Landcruiser will attract much interest.

We estimate that it will sell for between £17,000 and £25,000.

Viewing is always encouraged, within government guidelines of course. The car is located at our Abingdon headquarters; we are open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and to arrange an appointment please use the ‘Contact Seller’ button at the top of the listing to make an appointment. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’