A New Life for a Classic Off-Roader
It’s not an everyday occurrence to see a vintage off-roader revived with more power and purpose than when it first rolled off the assembly line. But that’s exactly what happened with this 1985 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60.
When this vehicle arrived at the Legacy Overland workshop in Greenwich, Connecticut, its body needed attention, the interior was worn, and rust covered many parts. Now it is transformed and has even more power than a modern Land Cruiser.
Chassis and Running Gear Updates
To bring this Land Cruiser FJ60 back to life and prepare it for long journeys, Legacy Overland started by updating the chassis. The team installed Old Man Emu springs and replaced worn suspension bushings.
The steering system was also modernized, and the brakes were replaced with a completely new system, giving the classic off-roader a solid mechanical foundation for the coming decades on the road.
Mechanical Revolution Under the Hood
With the foundational work complete, attention turned to what lies under the hood. The restomodders discarded the original engine and replaced it with a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter LS3 V8 from General Motors. This engine was paired with a new five-speed manual transmission and a Toyota transfer case. Powertrain refinements include a custom air filter, a refurbished cooling system, and a stainless steel exhaust system.
Additionally, a new 43-gallon fuel tank, a new fuel pump, fuel lines were installed, and the wiring was updated. Perhaps most impressively, all these changes were made without excessive alterations to the exterior. So, this FJ60 could easily be mistaken for a stock one until someone hears the thunderous sound of the V8.
Preserving the Authentic Look
The car’s exterior did not undergo radical changes. Instead, it was repainted in the original Freeborn Red color, and seals and window gaskets were renewed. Even the classic front bull bar and winch were left in place, highlighting the FJ60’s utilitarian roots while masking the upgraded power.
A Modern and Comfortable Interior
The car’s interior successfully blends modernity with the coziness of years past. The infotainment system is headed by a Pioneer head unit with Apple CarPlay support, paired with JBL speakers and a Rockford amplifier for quality sound. The driver and front passenger are now greeted by new Recaro seats that provide comfort and support, harmoniously fitting into the interior.
Legacy Overland didn’t stop there. The interior received upholstery in two types of leather and Alcantara, as well as marine-grade carpets that combine durability with a neat appearance. The lighting was replaced with LEDs, improving the ambiance, and the dashboard and other trim elements were adorned with fresh leather covering, completing the transformation.
Similar restoration and modernization projects for classic cars are gaining popularity, combining nostalgia for the design of past decades with modern technology and reliability. They demonstrate that old cars can not only retain their soul but also get a second life, often becoming better than they ever were. This attests to a high level of craftsmanship and creativity in the automotive world, where enthusiasts find new ways to realize their dreams of the perfect car.