Land Cruisers of any iteration are considered pinnacle overland vehicles, with recent adventure-equipped offerings including this 1996, 1999, and 2016. However, for many, including myself, the 70 Series remains the best of the breed. It’s not especially powerful, economical, or refined, but it is built to withstand daily punishment in a way almost no other vehicle is. It’s for these reasons and more that it’s the 4WD of choice for frontline agencies worldwide. These bulletproof characteristics are a perfect match for overlanding, which is why this platform is coveted by the community. It’s also a favorite with the Expedition Portal team and was utilized by Publisher Scott Brady and colleagues during the infamous Expeditions 7. There’s no shortage of rigs online that have been overhauled for overland travel with awe-inspiring offerings from ReDriven, ARB 4×4, and Driving Line. Cue today’s well-maintained 1996 Toyota Land Cruiser HZJ75, which has covered just 7,000 miles and showcases tasteful aftermarket modifications. If you’d like to deep dive into the many ways these vehicles can be uprated for exploration, listen to Principles of Overlanding :: Building a 70-Series Land Cruiser on the Overland Journal Podcast.
From the Seller:
“Almost everything on this truck is brand new, and all the work was professionally carried out with no expense spared. I purchased this 1996 HZJ75 a few years ago as a fire truck from Japan. These fire trucks are great because they have very low mileage, and in Japan, they are maintained extremely frequently. However, they have a few quirks: a very short wheelbase and an extra-tall bubble roof to accommodate fire helmets. I sourced brand-new parts, including a 6-foot bed and a flat roof. To accommodate the new bed, I had the wheelbase professionally extended, which also required extending the driveshaft, brake lines, and parking brake. While the truck was disassembled, I coated much of the frame and other components with an industrial zinc coating. This truck has one of the most reliable engines and transmissions Toyota has ever made.”
1996 Toyota Land Cruiser HZJ75
The Land Cruiser is fitted with a 1HZ 4.2 liter diesel that produces 129 horsepower and 205 pound-feet of torque. An exceptionally long-lived motor is matched with legendary capability thanks to 4WD, high and low range, armor, and lifted and uprated suspension. Inside, these rugged backcountry credentials are matched with basic driver comforts.
Distinguishing Features
- Old Man Emu suspension with 2-inch lift, Dakar leaf springs, Fox shocks
- Method Race 701 wheels with BFGoodrich M/T KM3 tires
- ARB front bumper with lighting and custom rear bumper
- Morimoto BI-LED headlights
- Dynamat sound deadener
- Rearview camera system
This 1996 Toyota Land Cruiser HZJ75 is listed for $78,000 OBO and is currently located in Montana. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
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