The early years
The Toyota FJ40 is a legendary vehicle that has a rich history spanning over six decades. This rugged, go-anywhere four-wheel drive SUV has gained a cult following among off-road enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The Toyota FJ40, also known as the Land Cruiser, is an iconic off-road vehicle that has left its mark on the automobile industry. Its origins tracing back to the 1950s.
In 1951, Toyota began developing a four-wheel-drive vehicle to compete with Jeep’s dominance in the off-road market. The result was the Toyota BJ, which was initially developed for military use. The BJ proved its worth in the Korean War and was subsequently released to the public in 1953.
However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that the Land Cruiser really began to gain popularity in North America. During this time, Toyota started exporting the FJ40 to the US and Canada, where it quickly gained a reputation as a reliable and rugged off-road vehicle.
The Land Cruiser was an instant success in Japan, and in 1958, Toyota began exporting it to other countries, including Canada. At the time, the Canadian market was dominated by American-made vehicles, but the Land Cruiser’s off-road capabilities and durability quickly made it a favorite among Canadian outdoor enthusiasts.
Early Toyota FJ 40
The FJ40 establishes it’s place in automotive history
One of the key features that set the FJ40 apart from other off-road vehicles was its unique styling. The FJ40 had a classic and timeless design that has stood the test of time. Its boxy shape, round headlights, and iconic grille make it instantly recognizable.
In addition to its design, the FJ40 was also known for its off-road capabilities. It was equipped with a solid front and rear axle, which made it incredibly durable and capable of handling even the toughest terrain. The FJ40 was also equipped with a four-speed manual transmission and a low-range transfer case, which made it easy to navigate difficult terrain.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the Land Cruiser continued to gain popularity in Canada. Its ability to handle tough terrain and extreme weather conditions made it a popular choice for farmers, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts. Toyota continued to make improvements to the Land Cruiser, adding features like power steering and air conditioning to make it more comfortable for everyday use.
In 1963, Toyota introduced the FJ45 pickup truck, which was based on the FJ40 platform. The FJ45 was equipped with a longer wheelbase and a larger cargo bed, which made it ideal for commercial use.
80s Toyota Land Cruiser FJ ad
Recent history and importance
In the 1970s, Toyota began exporting the FJ40 to other countries, including Australia, where it quickly became a popular off-road vehicle. In fact, the FJ40 became so popular in Australia that it was eventually manufactured locally under license by Toyota Australia.
Despite its popularity, production of the FJ40 eventually came to an end in 1984 and was replaced by the 70 Series which is still in production today. However, its legacy lived on, with many FJ40s still in use today, either as classic off-road vehicles or as collectors’ items. In fact, the FJ40 has become so iconic that it has inspired a whole subculture of enthusiasts who are passionate about preserving and restoring these classic vehicles.
In the 1980s, Toyota introduced the FJ40’s successor, the FJ60. This model featured a more modern design and improved performance, but it still retained the FJ40’s rugged off-road capabilities. The FJ60 was also available with a diesel engine, which made it popular among Canadian buyers who were looking for a fuel-efficient alternative to gas-powered vehicles.
Despite the popularity of the FJ40 and FJ60 in Canada, Toyota eventually phased out these models in favor of newer, more modern SUVs. However, the FJ40 and FJ60 remain a beloved part of Canadian automotive history.
In recent years, Toyota has reintroduced the FJ40 in the form of the FJ Cruiser, a modern interpretation of the classic SUV. The FJ Cruiser features many of the same design elements and rugged capabilities of the original FJ40, but with modern amenities and technology.
The Toyota FJ40 is a true icon of the off-road industry. Its timeless design, rugged off-road capabilities, and reputation for reliability have earned it a place in Canadian automotive history. From its origins as a military vehicle to its status as a beloved classic, the FJ40 has left a lasting impression on car enthusiasts around the world. The FJ40 and FJ60 remain a symbol of Toyota’s commitment to producing durable, reliable vehicles that are capable of handling tough terrain and extreme weather conditions.
4×4 Icons is helping preserve the legacy by restoring and perfecting these Land Cruiser FJ40 Series and making them available across Canada.
