Highlights
- Spent entire life in Okinawa, Japan and never experienced winter or salted roads
- Upgraded to VX specification with 4L turbo diesel and 4spd auto
- Presents very well well in original condition with rust-free structural
- Very fuel-efficient at approximately 35 mpg on motorways
- Recent MOT valid to June 2026
The Appeal
Whatever the road ahead presents, a HJ60 Land Cruiser is perfect for the task. These superb trucks are as capable as they are comfortable. And unlike some of its rivals, wherever you go in one, you can be guaranteed you’ll get there every time.
That definitely applies to this highly preserved High Roof example. It is in great condition thanks to a life spent in the cossetting climes of Okinawa, Japan where we are told it never experienced winter or salt roads. During its time there is was upgraded to top VX specification including fitting the revered 4L 12H turbodiesel engine and 4spd automatic gearbox.
The vendor imported it in late 2023 and registered it here in June 2024. It carries MOT to June 2026.
The vendor says:
“The car performs beautifully on the road, with remarkable agility, a precise steering system free of any play, and a braking system that operates flawlessly.
“It looks absolutely stunning. Heads turn on the street as it drives by – not surprising, considering how rare this vehicle is on British roads. Back in 1990, it was one of the most expensive SUVs in the world, with a showroom price equivalent to around $100,000 today. Only the wealthiest could afford one at the time.
“It's known from history that Pablo Escobar owned several of them. This SUV is a beast – the largest Toyota SUV of its era. The slightly raised suspension gives it an almost monster truck-like appearance.
“It drives beautifully and in no way feels like a 35-year-old vehicle. The brakes are excellent, stopping this 2,200 kg beast quickly and safely.”
History and Paperwork
- First registered in 1990
- Spent its entire life in Okinawa, Japan
- Never experienced winter or salted roads
- Imported from Japan in early 2024
- Purchased in October 2023
- Registered in UK in June 2024
- Previous detailed history unknown
- Regular participant in classic car shows
- MOT valid to 17th June 2026
- Cost the equivalent of £100,000 in 1990
- Upgraded to VX 4L automatic specification in Japan
The Condition
- Dark blue metallic paintwork in very good condition with few indications of age
- Entire floor is rust-free according to seller which buyers can checkin photos
- Bodywork appears in good order with straight and well kept panels
- All doors close properly and as if vehicle is virtually new according to seller
- Sits on chrome wheels with AT tyres
- Front chrome nudge bar and auxiliary driving lights with yellow lenses
- Interior upgraded to VX ‘Turbo’ specification and presents in good condition
- Seats appear well maintained with few indications of use considering age
- Small crack of a few centimetres on dashboard top, caused by Okinawan sun
- Distinctive appearance due to raised suspension
- Specificaiton includes glass sunroof
- High Roof model with spacious seating and load areas
- Load area in good condition as shown
The Mechanics
- 4.0L turbo-diesel 12H-T engine
- We are told the vehicle has been upgraded at some point to this engine
- Automatic 4-speed transmission
- Slightly raised suspension
- Vendor states that it can achieve 35 mpg on motorways
- We are told that it drives well and handles modern road conditions effectively
- Vendor reports that the engine engine starts easily and no warning lights on dashboard
- Long MOT to June 2026
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand.
