CLASSIC DRIVE: 1976 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40

The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 is undoubtedly one of the most-loved classic 4x4s. We spent some time behind the wheel of a near 50-year-old example - in the rough, of course!

Words: Wilhelm Lutjeharms

In the world of collectable classic 4x4s, there is a surprisingly large number to choose from. A homologation special like the Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution comes to mind, or if you prefer luxury there is the first generation Range Rover, amongst others.

• Find a Toyota Land Cruiser for yourself, here.

In terms of classic 4x4s, for many of us, three would immediately jump to mind, the Toyota Land Cruiser, Land Rover Series models and the Willys MB and its successors. All three have a strong following and to coincide with the local introduction of the new Land Cruiser 76, a kind owner handed us the key to his '76 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 for a day. 

Background

For the 4x4 fraternity, classic Land Cruisers are royalty. There were numerous models over the decades, including station wagons, three-doors, soft tops and long-wheelbase versions. This model features the 3.9-litre, six-cylinder engine.

The Land Cruiser can trace its history all the way back to 1951. Since then the Land Cruiser has remained one of the ultimate 4x4s, both in terms of luxury (with the current 300) but obviously also in terms of off-road capability and reliability. 

Back in '70s, cars were much simpler, whether you were driving a sports car or this Land Cruiser. If it was the latter, it was especially so. At first glance, there is no mistaking the Land Cruiser for anything else. This short-wheel base version, with its immediately recognisable front lights and grille make you want to load the necessary equipment and luggage and head for your overland trip.

The owner acquired it around six years ago after it was imported from Australia. He had some work done to the electrical system and a few non-OEM parts and equipment had to be removed. He decided against fully restoring it. There are some signs of its age but they’re minor and it’s taken on an appealing patina, showing the work the Cruiser has done over its close to five decades' life.

Behind the wheel

Get in and the simplicity of the cabin is both welcoming and relaxing. The thin-rimmed steering wheel, (very) long gearlever and analogue dials leave you in no doubt as to the era from which this car stems.

In front of me is the relatively short, flat and chunky bonnet, allowing you to almost perfectly judge the front extremities of the Cruiser. The air vents on the engine lid are a further rugged touch to the exterior design.

The seats are plain with no support, but for some reason that doesn’t bother... after all, what else would you expect!

The ride quality is firm and in line with a classic 4x4 with off-road suspension and being fitted with heavy-duty commercial tyres (Dunlop Universal 7.5 - 16). It is not severely bumpy though, but you are aware that you are driving a short-wheel base ladder-frame 4x4.

At the same time you can clearly hear the six-cylinder engine (meaning you need to talk rather loudly to your passenger), while the gearshifts are relatively long but pleasingly mechanical in nature and the clutch having an on-off action when pressed in. The engine is not the type you want to push through the rev range. It is happy to potter at the bottom or middle part of the rev range. You also quickly get used to looking in your rear-view mirror for faster moving traffic. Even on the open road, you tend to settle at 80 or 90 km/h.

Creature comforts are limited to vinyl flooring and a transmission tunnel cover… and that’s about it. Every single lever or button feels sturdy to the touch and solid in action. As is to be expected there is also the short lever for the transfer case if you want to select 4H or low range.

Unlike today’s large 4x4s, you are seated close to your passenger, while there is also space for another few passengers in the rear on the side benches. Owing to large rectangular windows all around you, you have a very clear view of your surroundings.

It is a relaxing drive, whether through traffic or slowly along the gravel road that heads into the picturesque Jonkershoek Valley outside Stellenbosch. Life slows down, you think clearer. Open the window and enjoy the Cruiser for what it is. As with many classic cars, people stare and some give you a happy thumbs-up. 

Back in the day

Interestingly, it was also in 1976 that CAR magazine tested its first Land Cruiser. The October issue featured the road test of a long-wheelbase bakkie. The run to 100 km/h took a leisurely 20.5 seconds and the top speed was measured at 138 km/h. More importantly, the test ended with these words: “It may not be beautiful, but the Land Cruiser is well-engineered and well-built. It is masculine and capable as a specialised, off-road truck. When it comes to sheer ruggedness and guts, the Land Cruiser is a winner.”

Little has changed over the years, except that it is now a classic and quite appealing to many of us, even in terms of its design.

Specifications: 

Model: 1976 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 

Engine: 3.9-litre, six-cylinder, petrol

Power: 96 kW at 3 600 rpm 

Torque: 294 Nm at 2 000 rpm 

Transmission: 4-speed manual, RWD/4x4

Weight: ± 1 480 kg

0-100 km/h:  ± 20 seconds

Top Speed: ± 135 km/h