When we set out to restore this 1979 Toyota Land Cruiser BJ40, our main purpose was to breathe new life into a top-quality 4x4, while preserving the recognizable and enduring features of classic Land Cruisers. Rebuilt from scratch and boasting a concours-level Desert Storm Tan paint job, this off-roader is in its element, whether at the beach, the mountain or on the road.
Keeping it authentic
As we stripped the car down to bare metal through media blasting, removing imperfections added by the ages, we dove into a full frame-off restoration. With a completely overhauled and rebuilt B type (diesel) inline four-cylinder engine, clutch and transmission, the truck boosts a 2,977cc displacement and an output of 80bhp at 3,600rpm. This engine is known for its indestructibility and low-end torque – in low gear, nothing will stop this truck.
We chose to equip the FJ Cruiser with Cooper’s STT Pro tires, as they’re known for their ability to challenging terrains, even in the Australian Outback. Upgraded Daytona beadlock wheels have been added for improved off-road performance. Focused on providing outstanding performance, we build the 4×4 suspension around Old Man Emu components. For improved stopping power, we upgraded the braking system with discs on the front wheels.
Classic design, modern luxury
Inside, we went for premium upholstery for seats, dash pads, doors and floor carpeting. We added competition bucket seats, ready for harness-type seatbelts while providing comfort with a cool polish.
The incorporated Bluetooth-enabled RetroSound radio merges the best of both worlds: modern technology with a vintage look. Out of the five speakers included in the premium sound system, one is installed in the middle of the front seats in the cubby storage box, two in the front foot-wells and two in the rear (using custom fabricated speaker boxes).
Among the finishing touches: extra-strength roll bar, the high-quality floor mats (front and back) and the black canvas bikini top are all custom-made. The jerry can was painted in Desert Storm Tan, as a natural extension of the Land Cruiser, to which we added a leather strap – we did the same with the hi-lift jack. Some of our extras include a genuine OEM Toyota Land Cruiser tool bag. Or the KC Highlighter lamp covers, which will certainly lighten the journey.
Some of the highlights include:
2,977cc Inline 4-cylinder engine
Indirect injection
80bhp at 3,600rpm
4-speed manual transmission
Old Man Emu suspension components
Cooper Tires STT Pro (Super Traction Tires)
Daytona beadlock wheels
Full spare wheel
Front disc brakes
RetroSound radio with Bluetooth
Premium sound system with five speakers
LED headlights
Long-range auxiliary lights
LED utility rear light
KC Highlighter lamp covers
Custom-tailored bikini top
Premium upholstery
Competition bucket seats
Custom ‘wool’ floor mats (front and back)
Cubby storage box with cup holders
Glossy, concours-level paint job in Desert Storm Tan
Custom roll bar
Jerry can in Desert Storm Tan with leather strap
Hi-lift jack in Desert Storm Tan with leather strap
D-ring attachment points (front and rear)
Genuine OEM Toyota Land Cruiser tool bag