1997 Toyota Land Cruiser FZJ80 40th Anniversary
The 80-Series Land Cruiser already has a reputation for being difficult to improve. This 1997 40th Anniversary Edition makes a convincing attempt, adding serious trail hardware without losing the familiar shape and character that made the FZJ80 such an enduring off-roader.
Finished in Desert Dune Pearl with the correct anniversary fender decals, the truck sits on an Old Man Emu suspension lift with Nitrocharger shocks and an upgraded steering stabilizer. Black 17-inch MEO wheels wear 35-inch Toyo Open Country tires, including a matching spare mounted to the swing-out rear carrier.
Underneath, the original 4.5-liter 1FZ-FE inline-six sends power through a four-speed automatic transmission and dual-range transfer case. Front, centre, and rear locking differentials give this example the desirable triple-locking drivetrain, while an aftermarket exhaust provides one of the few changes to the factory-rated 212-horsepower engine.
Inside, the power-adjustable front seats have been retrimmed in Tan and Oak Katzkin leather. Automatic climate control, cruise control, a split-folding rear bench, and the original CD and cassette stereo retain the comfortable, straightforward feel of a late-production 80-Series. The odometer shows 196,000 miles.
