The legendary Toyota FJ45 appeared with one purpose in mind: to conquer the toughest terrain on earth. From its inception in 1960, until it was retired in 1984, this durable sturdy was the vehicle of choice for adventurers, explorers, and off-road enthusiasts around the world.
Source: Bring a Trailer
This Japanese off-roader was built to handle whatever the elements could throw at it, with a sturdy ladder frame, solid front axle, and a two-speed transfer case for a four-wheel drive. Its six-cylinder engine provided ample power, while its four-speed manual transmission gave drivers complete control over every aspect of the car’s performance. Its durability and reliability were the stuff of legend, with many FJ45s still in use today, decades after they were first built. For anyone who values toughness, resilience, and a sense of adventure, this sturdy is more than just a car. It’s a symbol of everything great about the open road.
Source: Barrett-Jackson
The FJ45 had a fascinating history that dates back to the 1950s. It all started when the Japanese brand responded to a request for bids by the US Army for a new lightweight military car that would replace the aging Jeeps widely used in World War II. Toyota developed a prototype vehicle based on the Willys Jeep designed for off-road travel. Eventually, in 1951, the Army awarded the company the contract to produce the new off-roader. Over the next few years, Toyota continued to refine the design of this off-roader, which eventually became known as the BJ model. The BJ was powered by a four-cylinder engine and featured a four-wheel drive, a reinforced frame, and a sturdy suspension system. Toyota introduced the civilian version of the BJ in 1953, known as the Land Cruiser. In 1960, Toyota introduced two new models based on the Land Cruiser: the FJ40 and the FJ45. The FJ40 exhibited adaptability for both on-road and off-road driving situations as a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Its power came from a six-cylinder engine and it had a wheelbase that was shorter than that of the FJ45. On the contrary, the FJ45 was created with an elongated wheelbase as compared to the FJ40, intended specifically for commercial purposes. This variant was offered in the form of a pickup truck or a wagon, also equipped with a six-cylinder engine. Both of these off-road vehicles gained renown due to their sturdy design, remarkable capabilities, and renowned dependability. Consequently, they swiftly garnered popularity among explorers, off-road aficionados, and business users across the globe. The company continued to refine and improve the model throughout the 1960s and 1970s, introducing new features such as power steering, air conditioning, and an automatic transmission. By the time the FJ45 was retired in 1984, it had become a legend in the world of off-roading. Its rugged design, impressive performance, and legendary reliability had earned it a devoted following among adventurers and enthusiasts around the world. Today, this legendary off-roader is celebrated as an icon of automotive design and a symbol of the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.
Source: MotorTrend
The 1966 edition was a continuation of the popular model line. This rugged car was known for its durability, versatility, and off-road capabilities, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. The 1966 version featured a 3.9-liter inline-six engine with a four-speed manual transmission. The engine produced 125 horsepower and 209 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power to traverse even the toughest terrain. The off-roader had a four-wheel-drive system with locking front hubs and a two-speed transfer case, which allowed it to tackle steep hills and rough terrain with ease. The vehicle also had a solid front axle and leaf-spring suspension, providing excellent stability and control. The vehicle featured a classic, utilitarian design that emphasized functionality over style. The body was made of sturdy steel, with a boxy shape and angular lines. The vehicle had two doors and a removable hardtop roof, which allowed for open-air driving in good weather. The front grille featured the Toyota logo and was flanked by round headlights. It was available in a variety of colors, including red, green, blue, and beige. The interior of the 1966 release was simple and functional, with durable materials that could withstand heavy use. The car had two rows of seats, with room for up to six passengers. The seats were upholstered in vinyl and could be easily removed for cleaning. The dashboard was basic, with large, easy-to-read gauges and a simple, uncluttered layout. The vehicle had manual windows and door locks, and a basic AM radio was available as an option. As for the differences from previous versions, the 1966th release had few significant changes. The automobile was largely unchanged from the 1965 model, with the same engine and transmission, suspension, and four-wheel-drive system. However, there were a few minor updates, such as a revised fuel gauge and improved sound insulation. Overall, the 1966 edition was a dependable and rugged automobile that was well-suited for off-road adventures.
Source: Vintage Cruisers
1966 edition of the model was the first to be offered with a long-wheelbase pickup truck configuration. This configuration had a longer bed than the standard FJ45 and was popular with farmers, ranchers, and other commercial users who needed a rugged and reliable vehicle for hauling cargo. The long-wheelbase pickup truck configuration also laid the groundwork for the iconic Toyota Hilux pickup truck, which would later become one of the most popular and successful vehicles in the company’s lineup.
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