Lot Ended
Description
A striking example of this chunky Japanese 4x4; 3.8
straight-six petrol engine; power steering; front disc brakes; air con; high-
and low-range gears; eats Land Rovers for breakfast!
Much like our
own Land Rover, the 1950 Toyota Jeep BJ was inspired by the US Willys Jeep of
World War Two. Produced at the behest of the American military (who were
effectively running Japan’s post-war economy), the BJ proved its worth in the
Korean War and was further developed as the Land Cruiser for police and civilian
use from 1954 onwards.
The J40
Series came out in 1960 and evolved gradually over the next few decades, quickly
becoming Toyota’s best-selling vehicle in America. In fact the importance of the
FJ40 to Toyota cannot be overstated – exported worldwide, it established the
brand as a global force to be reckoned with and cemented a reputation for build
quality and reliability which Toyota still trades on to this day.
Dating from 1964, this FJ40 two-door soft-top
has the indestructible F-Series 3.8 straight-six petrol engine mated to
three-speed manual transmission with low-range transfer case for enhanced
off-road ability. Sadly there is no history with the vehicle but it is one of
three RHD examples that our vendor imported from Indonesia last year.
Clearly well-restored at some point in the
not-too-distant past, it has various desirable features including front disc
brakes, free-wheeling front hubs, power steering, chunky steel wheels, air
conditioning and a high-lift jack strapped in front of the passenger door.
The no-nonsense interior looks to be in good
shape, the black vinyl seat covers all look relatively new, as do the
rubber floor mats and the canvas soft-top. The bodywork and chassis look
reassuringly solid and the paint finish is generally very presentable apart from
a few minor blemishes here and there.
Our
vendor has gone right through the truck to ensure that it runs well, including
rebuilding the carb, fitting new plugs and points, cleaning out the fuel system
and fitting a manual choke. It has been starting promptly and running well as we
have moved it around on site, with a healthy-sounding engine and pleasingly
light steering.
All import duties have been
paid and a V5C has been applied for which should be with us in time for the
sale. An Indonesian Vehicle Registration Certificate is also present.
The
FJ40 has established a cult following in recent years, particularly in America
where good ones routinely fetch way more than the guide price suggested here.
This example certainly looks to be one of the good ones and will turn heads
wherever it goes.
An interesting alternative to a Series Land Rover, the
FJ40 is immeasurably cooler and arguably a superior machine all round. Go
to the harshest parts of the planet today, and chances are that the only
vehicles you will see are Land Cruisers – nothing else is tough enough...
For more information contact James on
07970 309907 or email [email protected]