The LX 450 is a great choice for travel, with recent offerings including this 1997 and a 1996 with an expedition trailer. Built on the coveted 80-Series Land Cruiser, the LX blends uncompromising 4WD durability and capability with fabled Lexus refinement. From the factory, this model is well-suited to the rigors of overlanding with its bulletproof 1FZ-FE 4.5-liter motor, body-on-frame architecture, full-time 4WD, locking differentials, solid axles, and coil-sprung suspension. It’s also beloved by the aftermarket with a huge catalog of parts, accessories, and services on hand to further uprate it for exploration. Cue today’s 1996 Lexus LX 450, which has been reimagined with premium modifications and boasts a rebuilt and supercharged engine (see full details here). If you’d like a better understanding of how this vehicle performs as a travel companion, then check out inspiring builds from the likes of Wheelin’ 97, Cruising the Land, and New Jersey Outdoor Adventures.
From the Seller:
“For sale is my LX 450, which has been my daily driver for nearly 10 years. During that time, anything that has needed to be addressed has been, with the majority of the work completed at Slee Off Road. I have records for all aftermarket additions and maintenance through my ownership and many through the prior ownership dating back as far as 2009. The vehicle has never been in an accident, is rust-free, and has been correctly maintained. The engine was rebuilt by PowderPig/Robbie Antonson following a head failure.”
1996 Lexus LX 450
The LX 450 is fitted with a 4.5-liter motor that delivers 212 horsepower, 275 pound-feet of torque, and returns a combined 13 mpg. An exceptionally long-lived engine and drivetrain are mated with impressive capability thanks to a body-on-frame design, 4WD, high and low range, a center locking differential, front and rear ARB lockers, an ARB breather kit, 4.88 Nitro gears, and a snorkel. Inside, these rugged credentials are balanced with driver comforts that include:
- Air-conditioning
- Cruise control
- Heated leather seats
- Center console
- Midland GMRS radio
Distinguishing Features
Below is a selection of notable features. Reference the original listing for full details.
- Costa Fabrication front bumper with Warn winch and 4×4 Labs 80-Series rear bumper with ladder mount, Hi-Lift mount, and tire attachment
- Method 703 wheels with Toyo Open Country AT3 tires
- YotaTEQ Gullwing hatches
- Slee suspension
- ARB twin air compressor
- Offgrid 4×4 dual battery system with Redarc BCDC battery charger, and Victron charge controller
- Baja Designs lighting
This 1996 Lexus LX 450 is listed for $45,000 and is currently located in Denver, Colorado. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
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