Owning an Off-Road Icon
The 1979 model year marked the final iteration of the iconic second-generation Toyota Land Cruiser FJ55, often referred to as the “Iron Pig” for its rugged durability. Part of the legendary Land Cruiser lineage dating back to the 1950s, the FJ55 evolved from a military vehicle into a highly capable civilian off-roader.
The boxy, upright exterior exuded utility, with a characteristic split grille design and round headlights. Unlike previous models, the FJ55 adopted a station wagon-style body, providing four doors and more interior space for passengers and gear storage. The body-on-frame construction and rear barn-door style tailgate enhanced its versatility and ruggedness.
Under the hood, a 4.2 liter inline 6-cylinder 2F engine delivered reliable power for daily-driving and off-road adventures. With its sturdy four-wheel drive system and long-travel suspension, the FJ55 was right at home crawling over rocky terrain or cresting sand dunes.
By 1979, Toyota offered upgrades like power steering, air conditioning and an upgraded interior with full carpeting. But creature comforts didn’t detract from the FJ55’s off-road credentials. Its combo of robustness, reliability, and room for family made it popular for overlanding trips and beyond.
The 1979 FJ55 marked the end of an era for one of Toyota’s toughest and most beloved vehicles. Its go-anywhere capability and characteristic styling cement its status as an off-road icon to this day.
Here are some key 1979 FJ55 facts:
- Little Known Facts:
- Came with a rear-mounted spare tire as standard
- Offered a snorkel air intake system for deep water
- Had an optional rear passenger heater under the bench
- Came with 30+ paint color options from the factory
- Featured an upgraded interior with full carpeting
- Amazing Facts:
- The 2F 6-cyl engine was produced for over 30 years
- Capable of carrying up to 1,300 lbs of cargo
- The FJ55 sold from 1960 all the way through 1983
- Total production numbers exceeded 300,000 units
- Still has a global enthusiast following today
A five-year sales history can be seen at Classic.com. Valuation tables can be seen at Caaarguide.com. For production numbers and values, see Conceptcarz.com. Current values can also be seen at Collectorcarmarket.com. A bit of history of the Land Cruiser can be found at Global.toyota and Gearpatrol.com.
Nadaguides.com – Average price: $32,600
Image credit – Wikipedia.org
#classictrucks #4×4 #oldschool #offroad #Toyota #LandCruiser #FJ55 #shifterslist
