1979 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ43

Description

This 1979 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ43 has undergone a full restoration, pairing the unmistakable appearance of Toyota's classic 40-Series with a longer body, traditional six-cylinder power and upgrades for added comfort and versatility. The medium-wheelbase configuration provides additional space behind the front seats, accommodating folding rear benches. Finished in Blue with a beige soft top and brown upholstery, this Toyota combines a 5-speed manual transmission, four-wheel drive, power steering and air conditioning with the rugged character that defines these classic off-roaders.

The light blue finish covers the flat-sided body, rounded front fenders and vented hood, continuing into the engine bay and across the underside of the body. The grille surround frames round headlights and a black mesh grille with contrasting TOYOTA lettering. Bright mirrors, exposed door hinges, Toyota Land Cruiser scripts and Japanese flag badges add detail, while body-color side steps provide cabin access. A front-mounted WARN winch features steel cable and a roller fairlead, flanked by auxiliary lamps above a silver-finished bumper. The beige soft top incorporates clear windows, with rear barn doors providing access to the cargo area. 17" Black Rhino Hard Alloy wheels wear 265/70R17 BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires, joined by a matching rear-mounted spare.

Power comes from a carbureted Toyota 2F 4.2L inline-six topped by a factory-style black air-cleaner assembly and a silver Toyota valve cover. An aluminum radiator handles cooling, while a full stainless steel exhaust runs along the passenger side of the chassis. A floor-shifted 5-speed manual transmission works with a two-speed transfer case offering two-wheel-drive high range, four-wheel-drive high range and four-wheel-drive low range. Solid front and rear axles ride on leaf springs, with a mild suspension lift incorporating Old Man Emu shocks and extended spring shackles. A steering stabilizer with power steering and power brakes with front discs make the classic Toyota more accommodating to drive.

Inside, attractive tan leather upholstery covers the pleated front bucket seats, matching door panels and inward-facing rear benches. The rear seat cushions fold upward to free cargo space, making practical use of the FJ43's longer body. Dark textured floor covering complements blue interior metalwork and a black roll bar. A 3-spoke Land Cruiser steering wheel fronts a factory-style instrument cluster with a KPH speedometer and gauges for oil pressure, fuel level, coolant temperature and charging. Modern air conditioning, a retro-style digital stereo with Bluetooth capability and Boston Acoustics speakers provide additional comfort and entertainment.

Distinctive proportions, an appealing color combination and useful upgrades give this FJ43 a character of its own among classic Land Cruisers. For an enthusiast drawn to vintage Toyota utility, it offers the familiar 40-Series experience with a longer wheelbase, extra room, and an inviting presentation that suits weekend adventures and casual cruising.

Key Highlights

• Frame-off restored FJ43
• Toyota 2F 4.2L I6 with single-barrel carburetor
• 5-speed manual transmission
• Solid front and rear axles
• Four-wheel drive with two-speed transfer case
• Full stainless steel exhaust
• Aluminum radiator
• Mild suspension lift with Old Man Emu shocks
• Steering stabilizer
• Power steering
• Power brakes with front discs
• Modern air conditioning
• 17" Black Rhino Hard Alloy wheels
• 265/70R17 BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires
• Full-size rear-mounted spare
• WARN winch with steel cable and roller fairlead
• Auxiliary lamps
• Tan leather interior
• Folding inward-facing rear benches
• Retro-style digital stereo with Bluetooth
• Modern Boston Acoustics speakers
• Black roll bar