1989 Toyota Landcruiser LX Turbo

65,000km (less than 41,000 miles) from new Reg No: G727 WGX MOT: February 2024

Estimate: £18,000 - £22,000*

Chassis No: JT1V0LJ7309012170

Revered the world over for its toughness and reliability, Toyota’s legendary 4x4 entered production in 1951 but only gained its ‘Land Cruiser’ moniker three years later after Willys objected to the Japanese manufacturer’s previous use of the word ‘Jeep’. The original BJ / FJ models evolved through 20, 30 and 40 Series guises but remained utility focused. However, the 50 Series Land Cruiser introduced in 1967 saw a shift towards greater on-road comfort; a trend that continued with the 60, 80, 100, 200 and today’s 300 Series machines. More of an ‘old school’ off-roader with body-on-frame construction, live axles front and rear, decent ground clearance and ‘bulletproof’ running gear, the 70 Series debuted in 1984 and remains the go-to workhorse in Venezuela, Morocco and the Australian outback. Available in short, medium and long wheelbase formats, it was powered by a variety of petrol and diesel engines including the famously durable 2.4 litre turbodiesel unit.

Still sporting the spare wheel cover fitted by its supplying dealer Garage G. Pissard of Sallanches, this left-hand drive, medium wheelbase, turbodiesel example belonged to two members of the same family (uncle and nephew) before entering the current ownership during 2019. Reportedly main dealer maintained up until 39,249km and then fettled at 44,495, 48,439 and 48,681km, the Toyota had covered some 50,783km by the time it was imported to the UK in 2015. Having lain idle for a while, the Land Cruiser was recommissioned with a new timing belt and tensioner etc. Finished in Grey Metallic with a detachable FRP hardtop, ‘G727 WGX’ boasts a true timewarp interior. Dating from a time when hoovers, microwaves and even pens were emblazoned with ‘Turbo’, the evocative term appears on its front seats. Showing just 65,000km (c.40,600 miles) to its odometer, the Toyota started readily and ran well during our recent photography session. Barely run-in by Land Cruiser standards, ‘G727 WGX’ is offered for sale with V5C registration document, original book pack, history file and MOT’d until February 2024.