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1976 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ55

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  • Mileage~49,590 on clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine4.2-litre
  • LocationRochester

AUCTION CLOSED

1976 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ55

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Introduction

Alan Stuart
Professional Consigner and Photographer

A true off-road icon, combining legendary reliability, rugged capability, and timeless styling in one of the most respected 4x4s ever built.

Built to conquer the world's toughest terrain, the Toyota Land Cruiser is a true off-road icon, renowned for its legendary reliability, uncompromising durability, and go-anywhere capability.

Engineered to thrive in the harshest conditions, these early Land Cruisers became trusted workhorses across every corner of the globe, earning an enviable reputation with farmers, explorers, aid organisations, and military services alike. Their simple yet incredibly robust engineering has made them one of the most respected and dependable 4x4s ever built.

Today, the Land Cruiser is celebrated not only for its remarkable capability but also for its timeless utilitarian styling and growing status among collectors. Its unmistakable boxy silhouette, rugged ladder-frame chassis, and dependable mechanicals create a classic driving experience that is both engaging and reassuring.

A remarkable note, is that this is quite possibly the only example of this 4x4 in the UK after its import from Australia. Bodywork restoration has been completed and we are told that the FJ55 has been mainly garage stored through its life.

It is finished with a Phillips CD / Stereo player, has had replacement wheel cylinders, new gearbox oil, engine lubricants and a brake fluid change and has some lovely features such as the wind-down rear windscreen.

Equally at home tackling green lanes, attending classic vehicle events, or taking pride of place in a discerning collection, the Land Cruiser remains a highly sought-after classic that perfectly blends practicality, heritage, and enduring appeal.

This listing was written from information supplied by Alan after meeting Andy the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

Built for the outdoors, but handy enough to take around town - one of my favourite drives to date.

We met with the current owner, Andy, who shared his thoughts on what first drew him to the Toyota, “It's the classic shape, rugged character and reputation for durability that I love most. It has a distinctive vintage presence that stands out from modern 4x4s, while still feeling purposeful and practical. It’s more than just a vehicle, it has a real sense of adventure and has been incredibly dependable throughout my ownership".

He explained further on what he likes most about the FJ55, "It has a genuine classic feel, strong road presence and a sense of adventure every time you get behind the wheel. It feels honest, well-built and full of personality in a way that newer vehicles often do not. It also attracts plenty of attention at shows because of its rarity; those who know the model appreciate it, while those who do not simply see it as a bit of a beast".

Andy tells us that the Toyota now see's less time on the road than it deserves, "I am reluctantly selling my FJ55 Land Cruiser due to space and personal circumstances. Strangely enough, I had not intended to buy it in the first place, despite its many endearing qualities. Suitable, accessible winter storage is difficult to find locally, and for this reason, it is time to part with the FJ55, although I fully expect I will regret the decision in the future".

During his ownership, Andy has cared for the Land Cruiser with great attention, carrying out sympathetic restoration work to recommission the vehicle after it had spent many years in garage storage. He adds, “It’s such a rewarding vehicle to drive and feels incredibly capable".

Andy will be happy to answer any questions into the comments section below.

Andy
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER

Exterior

A timeless symbol of adventure for generations, its iconic design blends rugged simplicity with unmistakable classic 4x4 character.

Wheels and Tyres

Rugged and dependable original-style, split-rim wheels are fitted and present respectably. All appeared to be in good condition, we didn’t notice any major damage, although there were a few marks here as you'll see in the images.

The wheels are fitted with Avon Ranger tyres. We weren't able to accurately date code the tyres on the Land Cruiser and these did show with signs of age to the sidewalls. The tread spec notes 108/106 to the front and rear.

The car also comes with a spare wheel for back up which has an Avon tyre installed.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

Bodywork

The Toyota bodywork is in good condition, and we understand it's been garage stored for most of its life in the UK and enjoyed in the great outdoors. Looking around the car, there are no major issues that we noted on our visit, just signs of its age.

Shut lines are visually equal and matching, as is the bonnet, and all doors. All sections opened and closed well, a great sign for a car of this heritage.

When we looked over the car, we didn't see any major issues to the body panels, although we noted around the edges of the panels and trim that there were signs of corrosion. This didn't detract too much for the overall appeal of the 4x4, ultimately it's an older vehicle with plenty of miles still ahead of it.

The 4x4 has had bodywork previously completed in November 2025 and June 2026. Works here included repair and paint of the near and offside panels, roof, nearside front panels, boot and offside front wing.

We've highlighted our observations in more detail through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take the time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer and to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

Considering the Toyota is designed for off-road and intended to be used this way, the finish and coverage of the paint on the Land Cruiser was good. The brown and cream paint colour is original factory specification, and reflects the era of the 4x4 well.

There were a couple of marks on the roof and several marks around the body, inline with the age of the vehicle. Taking into account the 4x4 has been around for over ~50 years, the FJ55 showed really nicely.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there yourself. Please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car to form your own opinion about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The windscreen shows well and in line with the age. During our visit, we didn't notice any cracks. The other areas of glass, mirrors, lights, and lenses all remain in decent condition throughout.

Window seals look great and align with the overall condition of the car. The roof is presented in good condition, although we did note a mark on the passenger side. In the cabin, we found no real issues, door cards looked good and the headlining showed no concerns.

The wind-down rear windshield was a lovely highlight to the Land Cruiser. We demonstrate this in action in our video review section.

We've taken you around the car in greater detail in our exterior review video, please take the time to look over the video and see how the glass and trim look from different perspectives.

Interior

Built with durability and adventure in mind, the cabin combines rugged simplicity with timeless charm and robust materials.

Seats and Carpets

The cabin area prioritises durability and function. Black vinyl seats present well for the age throughout, although there were rips in the driver and passenger seat-bases. With a re-trim here though, these would be back up to a great standard. Seats retain their shape nicely and provide a supportive vantage point ahead of tougher terrain.

The interior reflects the FJ55's rugged and purposeful nature, featuring a simple, straight forward design with durable, minimalist floor coverings throughout, perfectly suited to its hardworking off-road character.

We've captured high-resolution photos and a full interior video tour through the car. This covers off the angles inside for you to review and appreciate the condition of what's on offer here in our interior review section.

Dashboard

The original metal dashboard is nicely presented, with its analogue speedometer, classic controls, and switchgear all displaying well. The dash showed minor signs of age across the central sections in keeping with its character and heritage.

We noted no warning lights displayed when driving. The odometer showed a reading of ~49,590 miles during our visit.

Gauges, controls and interfaces were functioning without concern when starting up the car and out on the road and all dial surfaces were free from fogging.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

A classic three-spoke, thin-rimmed steering wheel puts the driver in control of the FJ55, which appears in nice condition, showing light signs of age.

The black long-throw gear selector looks good, and showed no major issues. A secondary, short floor-mounted lever to engage the 4-wheel-drive transfer case presented in the same condition.

We've captured high-resolution photos for you to review and check over the condition of the interior in our gallery section.

Mechanics

Built to conquer the toughest terrain, the Land Cruiser combines legendary durability with the power and reliability of its robust 2F straight-six.

Engine and Gearbox

The Land Cruiser cemented Toyota’s reputation for building tough, dependable vehicles, powered by the well renowned 4.2L engine.

The Toyota was impressive, idling and running well, and performing as it should on the road. Out on the drive, the car moved well through the gears, reinforcing its capable character.

Take a look at the mechanical video to see the car starting from cold, driving around some local roads, and for a closer look underneath the Toyota and the engine bay.

Suspension and Brakes

The Land Cruiser became renowned worldwide for its exceptional off-road capability, impressive carrying capacity and dependable handling, making it one of the most celebrated and respected 4x4s of its era.

We noted no knocks, bangs or other issues from the suspension when we were driving, and it gave us no concerns in its performance. The underside of the car showed respectably for its age, there were a few notes of corrosion underneath, although nothing stood out as a major concern.

The brakes felt to have no pull or vibrations that stood out to us when on the journey, and brought the car to a stop inline with our expectations.

Please take a look over the mechanical videos and photographs to see close-up images from under the car.

The Drive

Driving the Toyota is a truly authentic classic 4x4 experience. Built for durability rather than outright speed, it offers a commanding driving position, reassuring visibility, and a rugged character that's hard to replicate in modern vehicles.

Andy tells more about his experience with the Land Cruiser, "The Toyota drives very well for its age, although there is some play in the steering, which can be adjusted at the steering box. Visibility all round is excellent, making the large body surprisingly easy to manoeuvre and park. There is no power steering, of course, but it is still manageable. It has great road presence and never fails to turn heads."

Whether navigating country roads or venturing off the beaten track, the Land Cruiser feels sturdy and purpose-built, reminding you why it has earned such an enduring reputation around the world.

Electrics and Other

The Toyota features a Phillips Stereo / CD player and comes complete with a spare wheel and Avon tyre, located under the rear of the vehicle.

We weren't able to fully test all of the functions when visiting the car, although Andy told us everything else was in working order.

History and Paperwork

A defining chapter in the Land Cruiser story, this legendary 4x4 is celebrated for its unrivalled off-road capability and is believed to be one of the only examples of its kind in the UK.

Extremely rare, the Land Cruiser has spent most of its life garage stored since its import to the UK. The FJ55 was first registered in Australia in 1976 and imported to the UK in 1977 by its original owner, who was then living in London. The first UK owner apparently soon realised that the FJ55 Land Cruiser was not well suited to London streets and stored it until it was later bought by Andy's son-in-law.

Andy, the current owner, bought the Toyota over a year ago from his son-in-law, who had owned it for around ~16 years but used it only occasionally (circa ~11 years registered). Andy's daughter was not too keen on its shape or driving style compared with modern cars, and so, for more than ~15 years, it was stored in a garage, protected from the elements.

Unfortunately, very little paperwork remains, as Andy's son-in-law had misplaced it during a house move. However, as he was only the second owner, the car’s history is still largely known.

Because of its originality and overall condition, relatively little work has been needed. When Andy first acquired the vehicle, he changed all the oils and lubricants, drained the fuel tank and replaced the stale fuel, fitted new points and cleaned the plugs. After ~15 years in storage, Andy tells us, "it started instantly after I completed my work on it, and everything worked as intended".

The long period in storage had taken its toll, and it took Andy around ~3 months to thoroughly clean away the grime and remove a stubborn wasp nest. This revealed some rust on the tailgate and lower nearside wing, along with surface marks where items had been placed against the vehicle. Over the past ~6 months, these rust areas and panel marks have been professionally restored and repainted in the original colours.

The 4x4 had its bodywork completed in November 2025 and June 2026. Works here included repair and paint of the near and offside panels, roof, nearside front panels, boot and offside front wing. The part restoration works cost over ~£1,300. Previous works receipts for the body works are available to view in the paperwork gallery section.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
29.03.2015 MOT 49,549
Key Details
  • Year1976
  • ModelLand Cruiser FJ55
  • TransmissionManual
  • Reg. Date01.01.1977 / 22.02.1977 in UK
  • CC4,230
  • Mileage~49,590 on clock
  • ColourBrown / Cream
  • Interior ColourBlack
  • Interior TrimVinyl
  • Chassis #FJ55/054383
  • Engine #F0044654
  • RestoredPartly
  • MOT ExemptYes
  • Road Tax ExemptYes
  • HPi ClearYes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers3
  • Tyre BrandAvon
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned~1 year, 3 months.
  • Key FeatureRare & Desirable Model
  • Vehicle RegistrationPUW 91R
  • Driver’s SideRight
  • Fuel TypePetrol
  • Body TypeOff-Road 4x4
  • Auction ID3807






Auction Closed

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This car didn't meet its reserve price and may soon be available as a private sale - please contact us for more information or let us know if you want to be notified when a similar car comes to market.

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5 Comments
wrexham
wrexham
1 month ago

I note that the toyota has had a colour change from green is the green original colour visable antwhere

wrexham
wrexham
  AndyKarmann
1 month ago

Oh okay, its just that in the history and paperwork section shown in the images under vehicle I.D it says the original colour was green and the colour was changed in May 1989. Is this not the case then?

wrexham
wrexham
  AndyKarmann
1 month ago

Okay thanks, it certainly looks original and I would not have even given it a thought if the published paperwork did not say it had been changed. looks like it is a mistake. Thanks again

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Rochester

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