If any vehicle cemented Toyota’s reputation for reliability and dependability, it is its Pickup range. A global sales success, these classics have served with distinction in both domestic and defence roles. This 1986 Xtracab 4×4 is a genuine survivor with a documented 82,000 miles on the clock. It has led a sheltered existence and is ready to find a new home. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting the Pickup listed here on eBay in Puyallup, Washington. Spirited bidding has pushed the price to $9,100, which is below the reserve.
Toyota released its Fourth Generation Pickup range for the 1984 model year. A comprehensive redesign gave the Pickup a more modern look, while the optional Xtracab variant provided additional interior storage space. This 4×4 Xtracab left the line in 1986, ordered by its first owner in Code 8A1 Medium Blue. The paint retains an impressive shine, but scrutinizing the photos confirms that this Pickup isn’t a trailer queen. There are a few minor scrapes and marks, most of which you might accumulate during off-road adventures. If that’s the case, it means that this Toyota has served as its creators intended. There are no significant bumps or bruises, and this classic is rust-free. It is refreshing that the vehicle rolls on its original wheels, because larger aftermarket wheels and tires are a common sight. The trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear.
The seller’s description of this classic is confusing in a couple of areas. They talk about this Pickup’s bench seat and factory radio, but this interior definitely features buckets and an aftermarket CD player. However, its condition is exceptional for a classic of this type and age. The blue cloth seatcovers are free from stains and significant wear, and the matching rubber mat is both practical and in good condition. The dash and pad are excellent, and the lack of wheel wear supports the mileage claim. The first owner focused on practicality, passing on factory options such as air conditioning and power windows.
Lifting this Pickup’s hood reveals the 2.4-liter 22R four-cylinder engine. Its power and torque figures of 110hp and 138 ft/lbs may not sound impressive, but with a five-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case bolted behind, this Pickup can cruise effortlessly on the open road or climb every mountain and ford every stream. These Pickups enjoy a well-earned reputation for rugged reliability, and I have seen this demonstrated quite graphically. I once worked with a guy who owned an identical example. He had no concept of routine maintenance or mechanical sympathy, mercilessly abusing his Pickup for years. Did it wave the white flag? Absolutely not. It kept coming back for more! I saw it years after he sold it, and that Toyota was still rolling along with no signs of problems. With that thought in mind, the fact that this 4×4 has a genuine, documented 82,000 miles on the clock means that it has more to give. It runs and drives well, with no identified needs or shortcomings.
Determining the desirability of a classic is sometimes challenging, but this 1986 Toyota Xtracab 4×4 Pickup leaves little doubt. It has attracted an impressive 32 bids, although the Listing View and Watch List tallies of 691 and 92, respectively, confirm that this survivor has piqued the interest of many. The action will undoubtedly intensify in the final hours, but what would you pay to park this low-mile survivor in your garage?
In 1985, I was in the market for a smaller 4×4 pickup, and I looked at Toyota and Nissan but eventually settled on an Isuzu P’up, primarily because it was cheaper.
Big mistake! The Isuzu rusted out fairly quickly, and the Toyota would have rusted out eventually, but it would have lasted longer and provided a more reliable and robust truck for my needs at that time. The featured truck looks like a winner, I will be curious to see what it sells for.
I had an 86 Toyota 4Runner with the 22RE motor in it and when I eventually sold it in 2005/2006 it had well over 400K trouble free miles on it. These motors are/were indestructible and a testament to what Toyota is all about with routine maintenance. I believe I changed the clutch twice but beyond that nothing major. You could not hurt that truck if you tried. The featured truck has MANY miles left in it and depending on what the final price is may in fact be a bargain for the right person.