As enthusiasts, many of us try to some extent to predict which vehicles can bring us enjoyment while also being decent investments, at least to the point that we break even when it comes time to sell. One of the best ways to assess whether a vehicle can both be a treat to own while having decent odds at being a sound investment is to assess how long said vehicle has been desired by collectors, and the FJ40-series Land Cruiser is one of those vehicles with incredible staying power. This 1978 model listed here on craigslist has just 44,000 miles and was found after being parked for the last 25 years.
Thanks to Barn Finds reader Todd K. for the find. While we are accustomed to seeing FJ40s either completely restored or found in untouched, somewhat knackered condition, discovering an actual low-mileage survivor happens far less frequently. The FJ40 shown here is one of the few that wasn’t put through its paces as a workhorse on a farm or as a trail rig, as is often the case with these highly-capable 4x4s. To find one that was apparently used with a great deal of care just doesn’t happen all that often. The sheetmetal looks to be in outstanding condition.
The seller notes that it was purchased new at Redding Toyota in California and has remained on the West Coast ever since. The truck has been gone through mechanically to bring it back to turnkey condition without distorting its originality, with recent work including new brakes, master cylinder, and tires, and a complete flush and replacement of all vital fluids. The truck presents very well, and I personally appreciate that the seller hasn’t attempted to spray paint over the limited surface rust visible in the engine bay.
The interior remains in untouched condition with some bagginess in the driver’s seat upholstery reminding you this FJ40 was still used despite being a low-mileage specimen. When it comes to buying a good example of Toyota’s most recognizable version of the Land Cruiser, originality is certainly a big driver, followed by low miles (just like any other vintage car or truck, really). This FJ40 possesses both qualities in spades and seems like a decent buy for $40,000, especially when compared to an over-restored example that has lost all traces of originality.
Clearly, the elephant in the chatroom is going to be the price, so let’s change gears a bit, and talk about what a great truck this is/was. I had a close friend with one just like this. We had a kindred connection as I had my FJ55 then. Far as I’m concerned, the Corolla put Toyota on the map for cars, the FJ did it for 4x4s. It was a direct kick in the nads to Bronco, Blazer, CJ and Scout owners. It simply did everything better, at a competitive price, about $6200 new, and as a stout Jeep person, it’s not easy to say that. While we were used to our 4x4s, it was clear, Toyota meant business and was on a mission to be the most popular, and did. These still had all the misgivings of Asian vehicles, crude in many respects, but Toyota knocked it out of the park with this, and has been a leader in 4x4s ever since.
You meant to say “40 series” instead of “FJ.” In Land Cruiser taxonomy, there is no such designation as “FJ” since such designation would span across several models. It’s sloppy and incorrect nomenclature.
A year ago, $40K yes. In the interim, demand appears to have softened significantly. Perhaps more of them appeared in the market once prices started rising. Or, the hip crowd moved on to Broncos and Scouts. Recent prices on BaT, where these appear frequently, are down. Hope seller is successful.
I agree, a year ago maybe 40k but now with the dealerships overstocked inventories prices are going to be forced down. Right now no one can afford to pay top $$$ for vehicles even if they are rare or a classic. Lastly with the exception of the Barrett Jackson billionaires the average person out there are hurting and trying to survive. Nice truck though.
10-4 on the prices. I’m a manager at my work and our budget for 2024 was finalized today. All managers had made a list of folks that will hit hard when we come back from Christmas break. I’m sure we’ll see prices drop significantly in the next few months as there will be more hobby cars on the market than there will be buyers.
This is a really nice looking old girl. I bought a ’67 FJ40 in the same color when I was living in CO ’78. It had been repainted, in part to cover some bondo on the rear side panels due to a rust problem but that thing would go anywhere. It needed a set of rings and a valve job too because she was using a little oil and it was visible at night, but for $1700 I couldn’t complain. I drove it for a year and sold it to a guy for the same price I bought it for who wanted to drop a Chevy in it so we were both happy campers.
I bought a 1971 FJ-40 in1973 which had studied tires all around, and a warn winch on the front. I felt like I could go anywhere until a hill proved me wrong because on the other side was a 15 ft drop off. After the body shop replaced most of the top,I installed a full roll cage and drove it for 10 years. It was by far the most versatile vehicle that I ever owned !
Lots of comments bout price on here.c mon guys we all know sellers start with super high prices in hope to get what they know it’s truly gonna get them. That’s why we have the option to make offers. It’s a sweet ride absolutely love it. I’m broke as hell but if I were a wealthy man I’d say how’s 26,995 sound ?
One of my best friends from high school/college has a blue on of these, only a 1974. He ws having clutch problems in 1980 and jacked it up in his parent’s garage and pulled the tires, leaving it on blocks. I helped him drop the transmission and then told him to call me when he was ready to put it back together. His Dad gave him a 1977 Blue Pacer to drive until he could get parts and put it all back together. It is now almost 2024 and I am still waiting for the call. The Land Cruiser is still in his parent’s garage, still on blocks. It had about 70,000 miles on it if I recall correctly. He no longer has the Pacer but uses his truck since the family home is also a farm. I remind him every few years that that CJ is going up in value and he needs to fix it but he just can’t get around to it. I have no idea what is around it now but I would guess it would qualify as a ‘garage’ find even though we know it is there. I would guess we don’t know where the transmission bolts are now. A shame.
Imagine if the govt would let you buy this new today? Would you? I think it would be awesome to see something like this on the showroom floor knowing there are service parts in the back room and a full warranty. Alas it’s just a dream. Open your wallet and say ow!
Being in auto sales from 1978 until 2015, I spent my early years before management in the sales end. It was a very enjoyable job selling Toyotas it was easy and simple process that gave the salesman a chance to spend more quality time with the customer.
Our dealership was moved to Marina Del Ray CA in 1981, it was such a great place to be. When the 2882 Celica & Supra hit, Corolla Twin Cam, the up dated trucks, The all new Camry and mini vans, you just had to have a great attitude and wear a smile and you made money. The cars ran, everything worked, fit and finish was excellent. Honestly it came down to color. Back then their product just didn’t break.
Anyone know how to get ahold of BarnFind’s staff?? Been trying to list a ’62 Cutlass f85 convertible, but their website won’t load any of images, just my credit card! No phone listed in Boise, ID, tried that, and have emailed them 3 times.
Send me the F86 contact info in a reply
44,000 miles ? I gotta question ! The paint on the shifter worn off. The brake pedal pad obviously worn out and fallen off. The drivers seat looks broke down and the seat covers tell a different story. Don’t see a zoomed in picture of that odometer. I’ve put over 100,000 miles on most of my vehicles and not had those signs of wear. Yes these Toyotas are tuff. I wouldn’t mind one to drive daily so my truck can sit a bit.