Some vehicles will inevitably become less desirable as projects over time, owing to demographic shifts and dwindling parts supply (or both). Some others, however, will continue to endure, either due to immense popularity or because they still make sense to restore with plenty of good spares around. The FJ40 series of the venerable Toyota Land Cruiser seems to be one of these vehicles, as they still have quite a following. While prices have dipped in recent years, a good one will still draw a crowd. Find this Capri Blue FJ40 listed here on eBay for $4,950.
The FJ40 is about as ubiquitous as it gets for a vintage truck. Known far and wide for being dirt simple to operate and a billy goat off-road, it has morphed from being the type of rig that is simply used and maintained to one that may become the subject of a six-figure restomod build. While they got even hotter in the last 10 years, I’ve noticed some cooling lately for average-condition trucks. The mint condition rigs will still set you back, but something like this one will sell for far less. As it is, there’s an option to submit a best offer.
Truth be told, it looks better than expected for an example that’s priced under $5,000. The interior doesn’t reveal any major holes in the floor, but the seller does acknowledge the body could use a rear passenger quarter panel patch and both outer rocker panels. The rear floor and sill have both been replaced with diamond plate, which may be functionally fine but far from correct if you’re a purist. Still, this doesn’t seem like the sort of project you’d buy if you want the best. The seller was planning on swapping in a Chevrolet 350 engine, but didn’t get around to doing so.
Underneath, it looks reasonably solid, with just the typical surface rust on exhaust and frame components. The seller will include many extra parts for an additional fee, including the hardtop and doors. He notes both items weren’t present when he bought it, so it seems he’s counting those as extra purchases if you want to bring the truck closer to factory specs. The 2.5-inch lift and locking Warn front hubs are installed and obviously included. The high-torque 3.9-liter F inline-six would be my choice for an off-road rig, but I wouldn’t feel bad taking this project-grade truck in a different direction.
Old school Power Wagons, FJ Land Crushers and cockroaches will still be alive after The Apocalypse.