Some might argue that the king of trucks today is either a GM or Ford product. But back in the 1980s, and outside of the US, there is one truck manufacturer that is popular the world over. The Toyota Landcruiser has been used in all corners of the globe in humanitarian relief, troop movements, war zones and even to take the kids to school. Over 10 million have been sold over the past 65 years, and the one we have today is a rather rare ‘Troopy’ or Troop Carrier model Toyota Landcruiser from 1987 in vibrant red. Today’s truck comes at us from Santa Clara, California here on Craigslist for $47,000. Hat tip to T.J. for sending us this one!
Although the Landcruiser has been produced since the 1950s, it was a very utilitarian piece of kit. However, that changed in the 1980s with the release of the series 70, whereby Toyota responded to the public desire for more recreational vehicles, whilst still sticking to its original concept. This was one of the first brands to introduce ‘lifestyle’ to the SUV/truck market in such a big way, and its influence on the market today cannot be understated. This brings us nicely onto the red BJ75 Troop Carrier today, powered by a diesel 3.4l, 4-cylinder engine with manual transmission and which has covered over 463,000km or 287,000 miles. Thanks to this engine, it can get up to 20mpg, and the next owner can maybe even drive this to a million km.
This truck has a well-used but well-cared-for patina, it’s certainly not a garage queen, but will be dependable and reliable like Toyota’s of this era tend to be. The most recent work to this vehicle was in 2020 and included a new suspension, axle, and mount rebuild, plus a rewiring of the lights. The seller is even throwing in a 3000W charging kit and a hi-lift jack to help you on your next adventures. The interior is festooned in easy-clean leather material and chunky black plastic dashboard but seems to be missing a stereo. It rides on 33-inch tires with plenty of tread remaining.
These fast appreciating classics are beginning to gain lots of traction in the US, and thankfully you can use this one as Toyota intended – all over the country, on-road and off-road. So what would you do with this classic high-milage Troopy – take it on its next off-roading adventure, or treat it to a restoration?
Rare or not, 50K for a 300,000 mile anything is just silly. GLWTS, 😆🤣
I agree. For a vehicle like this, I’d pay between $20k and $25.
Hey Bluetec320. No it’s not silly ,because you are getting a beach chair, shovel,tools and some anti freeze. i think that’s a fair asking price.lol
🤣👍
It actually looks like someone stole the box out of the back of my XJ.
Asking price aside, this model remains on my wish list.
And on that eventual purchase, a camper conversion is a must have.
I have never come across a 4 cylinder version before, as in my part of the world these are only sold with the Toyota 6 cylinder and V8 only.
Tough does not cover it. And any shade tree mechanic can fix it.
Not the most comfortable ride thou.
But near impossible to break.
Someone will buy it. LHD will convince someone. Not registered in CA though.
Troopy? Looks like an Isuzu Trooper from the back.
Beautiful looking Troopy. It’s a damn shame it was never offered here in the USA. I think people would’ve bought it had they known the different body styles one could get them in. I know I would’ve. I also like the diesel engine.
looks like top comes off but no w/shield drop.
Folks round here will pay that’n more. AND
just run it to the mall’n office (give it to the kid for school)~
I like any vehicle that’s built rugged enough to withstand most things we would use it for. I also appreciate durable seating material while also being comfortable enough for long road trips to the Washington state coast.
Plenty of rust visible on gutters & fenders. A rusted troopy is going to require alot of dedication to be worth 47k. Import your own from france for 16k euros all day long.