Originally a 1587 cc 12R engine, has now been swapped to a 2T engine
Excellent running and driving truck
MoT and VED exempt in the UK
The Appeal
As a highly successful truck design with robust engineering and immense capability, production of the Toyota Hilux began in March 1968 and in a variety of updated forms, still continues to be in production through to today. Introduced in 1972, the second-generation Hilux was exported globally and featured an updated interior which was reportedly more comfortable, as well as improved exterior styling. Despite its charmingly small stature, the N20 Hilux was still quite capable as a commercial vehicle, while remaining economical and easy to maintain.
This Hilux in particular is in superb condition for its age and is ready to serve its purpose with a new owner. This one was personally imported from South Africa by the current owner, a commercial vehicle enthusiast with a large collection of historic work vehicles and trucks. The truck presents very well, and benefits from a cleanly swapped Toyota 2T engine, providing a bit more power.
The History and Paperwork
Current V5 present
Currently SORN since 26th May 2022
First registration on 1st January 1974
First registration in UK on 1st March 2022
The Nova document is dated 10th December 2021
MoT and VED exempt in the UK
The pickup was imported from South Africa in 2021
The pickup is registered as a Historic Vehicle
History mostly unknown
The Interior
Overall interior in excellent condition, with very little signs of use
Dashboard in excellent condition with very few indications of use
Owner states all electronics, switches, buttons, and gauges work as they should
Previous owner has installed a standalone water temperature, oil pressure, and ammeter in a small gauge pod underneath the centre dashboard
Red/black two-tone vinyl & cloth bench seat in very good condition, suits the vehicle’s ‘70s styling
No rips or seen damage to seat upholstery
Steering wheel shows little wear for the age, in great shape but some scratches and marks present around the hand-hold areas
Fitted carpet floor mat present, shows some wear but overall good shape
Headliner in great condition but could benefit from a deep clean and some sagging seen
Fitted with aftermarket head unit with tape player
Centre console heater and blower controls missing sliders
Truck bed in good structural condition with expected marks and dings from normal use, very light surface corrosion present as photographed, protective coating covering most areas but peeling away on wheel well tubs
Comes with tubular extended-height load container as fitted, in good shape and showing only surface corrosion with no structural issues seen
The Exterior
Exterior in great straight and glossy condition for the age, with some scratches and marks here and there, some minor dings and dents, minor paint bubbling in places as pictured
Trim, rubbers, and seals are in good shape, showing some signs of aging but still functional; owner reports no leaks
Front grille in great, straight condition
Light lenses in good usable condition, headlights show no signs of fading from age
Glass in overall usable condition, some marks present but no cracks
Steel wheels in usable condition with hubcaps’ brightwork shining, some very light corrosion and pitting spotted
Four tires show tread but show signs of old age and are mismatched brands
Underside in expected condition, with surface corrosion no visible problem areas seen, chassis and suspension seem to be sound
Underside of load bed shows some problem areas developing as photographed
The Mechanics
Vehicle starts, runs, and drives as to be expected for the age
Visual condition of the engine bay is overall to be expected for the age, some corrosion present, engine swap seems to have been done cleanly
Toyota 2T engine present
Drive belt in good condition with some fraying on the edges
No known mechanical issues were reported by the owner
Summary
With the popularity of classic Japanese commercial and work vehicles on the rise, this lovely Hilux is highly desirable with its pure and simple ‘70s styling and bright yellow paintwork. Still with full capability to perform a variety of commercial tasks, this charming and practical truck is fit for service, but still leaves a bit of room to be improved after just a little TLC if that’s what you’re after. As a solid running and driving base to get started on your next project, without much work, it could be transformed into a real head-turner at the local Japanese meet.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
