Revamp of a Classic: The 1982 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60
Let’s dive into a tale where vintage charm gets a modern twist. This 1982 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60, which was given a fresh coat of beige paint and upgraded with a fuel injection kit back in 2019, offers a delightful blend of nostalgia and contemporary upgrades. Rolling majestically on an Old Man Emu lift kit, it flaunts rugged 15″ steel wheels wrapped in 33″ BFGoodrich tires. Under the hood lies a robust 4.2-liter 2F inline-six engine, paired with a four-speed manual transmission and a two-speed transfer case. That’s a mouthful, indeed!
What else do we have here? Well, extras like locking front hubs, a handy roof rack, chrome bumpers with those sleek black end caps, and inward-facing rear jump seats add a touch of utilitarian cool. Not to mention, it’s equipped with air conditioning and a Pioneer stereo to keep you comfy and entertained on those off-road escapades. Clocking in at 130k miles, this vintage beauty comes with comprehensive service records, a cache of spare parts, and a pristine Florida title bearing the seller’s name.
A New Coat, a New Lease on Life
This FJ60 originally set off on its journey dressed in a sleek beige (464), a color that made a comeback circa 2025 alongside snazzy multi-color side decals and new chrome front and rear bumpers. With dual round headlights given a facelift—and a roof rack plus split tailgate thrown into the mix—it’s designed to impress. Sure, there’s a paint crack or two near the roof, but hey, a spare bumper is part of the deal. Talk about a well-prepared companion for adventurers at heart!
Tires, Lifts, and Brakes—Oh My!
Dressed up in black 15″ steel wheels and hubcaps, it wears 33×10.5″ BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires like a badge of honor. In 2019, its suspension got a makeover, featuring a 2″ Old Man Emu lift kit, and the manually locking front hubs add a layer of robustness. The braking system, consisting of front discs and rear drums, speaks to the iconic reliability we’ve come to expect from Toyota. Around 2020 and 2022, the steering gearbox, along with front inner axle seals and steering knuckle seals, were replaced. A testament to careful, precise craftsmanship!
Interior Funk and Function
Inside this grand old-timer, front bucket seats upholstered in rich patterned tan cloth with complementary brown vinyl sides take center stage, alongside a pretty folding rear bench and matching door panels. Features like air conditioning, a Pioneer stereo, a rear window defroster, and a locking center console with a padded armrest and cupholders cater to comfort and convenience, ensuring every drive is a pleasurable one. In February 2025, the air conditioning system was revamped with a new compressor, and while some interior trim might show wear, it’s all part of the FJ60’s timeless charm.
Where Luxury Meets Practicality
With inward-facing jump seats and a Land Cruiser-branded floor mat, the rear cargo area states its case for both style and functionality. Meanwhile, at the driver’s helm, a three-spoke steering wheel elegantly frames an 85-mph speedometer and a 4,500-rpm tachometer, alongside gauges for essential metrics like coolant temperature, voltage, oil pressure, and fuel level.
Interesting fact: The six-digit odometer reads 130k miles, with about 6,000 of those being added during the current owner’s tenure.
Engine Overhaul
Let’s not overlook the heart of this beast. Originally, its 4.2-liter 2F inline-six engine received a fuel injection conversion kit under the current ownership. The starter had its moment in the spotlight, replaced in November 2024, ensuring efficient start-ups that would make even a Ford S-Max owner nod in appreciation.
If you’re keen on the sweet dance of power to the rear or all four wheels, then the combination of a four-speed manual transmission and a two-speed transfer case will get your heart racing.
Record-Keeping and Safety Notes
The Carfax reports highlight open safety recalls but also boast a clear record of entries starting in 2018. So, there you have it—a nod to ongoing improvements and vigilant maintenance, ensuring this Land Cruiser can still rival the robust dependability of a VW Beetle.
Here’s to a classic reborn, a journey through time and terrains, flaunting its legacy with every mile. Whether you’re revisiting childhood memories or simply embracing an icon, this 1982 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60 stands ready to take on the road or blaze a trail. Hold onto your hats—adventure awaits!