The Toyota Land Cruiser - reliable, comfortable, sound proof and above all, available on the 2nd hand market at an attractive price point to modify into an expedition vehicle.Land Rover might have truly opened Africa, but currently Toyota are the preferred vehicle of choice.
Here's a quick overview of the various Toyota model's that have crossed Africa, Asia and South America). Similiar to the Land Rover article, the criteria is an overland expedition and website detailing the trip.
FJ40
Wikipedia:
The Toyota FJ40 is the model designation for a Toyota Land Cruiser 40 series made from 1960 until 1984. Most 40 series Land Cruisers were built as two-door vehicles with approximately the same dimensions as a Jeep CJ.
The model was also available under the BJ40 / 41 / 42 ( short wheelbase ), BJ43 / 44 / 46 ( middle wheelbase ) or HJ45 / 47 ( long wheelbase ) designation where it had a Diesel engine.
OA-N4 - Dagmar & Stephan
FJ45
The Planet Project - Ian & Nikki
BJ45 - 1984
Land Cruising Adventure - Karen-Maritje & Coen
I can't find an African trip however this Toyota has almost completed the full globe.
HJ60
Natuurlijk Afrika - Andres & Marre
Troopie 75 Series (HZJ75) - 1990
Radio Baobab - Frederik & Josephine
A must read is the trip report of their Lubumbashi to Kinshasa overland route
Overland Dreamers - Geoff Kingsmill
80 Series - 1992
Mind the Elephant - Will & Hannah
Picture Africa - Catt & Dawie
90 Series (Colorado / Prado)
Hope to see you soon - Karel & Hildy
100 Series
Drive to Oz - Graham & Family
Other Land Cruiser Models
I have not found any of the latest Land Cruisers kitted for an expedition. The Africa Overland Network currently has about 101 Toyota's listed.
Videos
A good overview from 4xforum:
Summary
The avid Toyota fan will recognise that I have left out a number of Toyota's on this page. The renown Toyota Hilux is one example but is very scarce in the UK hence the lack of modified vehicles for overland travel.
It's amazing Toyota has had the gall to sell these things without air bags till now.
ReplyDeleteHave they increased the rear axle width to match the front with this update? The current ones are atrociously dangerous with the narrow rear and wider front.
The FJ80 started having airbags in the USA since 1995
ReplyDeletepetrie.jack@yahoo.com.au
ReplyDeleteI have a Australian registered Toyota Landcruiser which has a professionally fitted living arrangement within the Vehicle.
Purchased in Brisbane, Australia it has been shipped to Cape Town, South Africa and travelled through Africa to Cairo, Egypt. The vehicle is currently in London, England where I am attracting interest from potential buyers.
Basic specifications
2006 Toyota Landcruiser Diesel
119,000km on clock
6 Cylinder
Troop Carrier Model, Living arrangement includes, Fridge, Sink, Oven, 2 Double beds and additional accessories.
Serviced by Toyota every 10km (Completed log books etc)
If there is any interest please respond as I have further information regarding the vehicle.
Best regards,
Jack
First time here...u have nice space and really inspirational stuff... I'll be back soon.
ReplyDeleteHJ60 landcruiser