Introduced in 1984, the 70 Series Land Cruiser was the long-awaited successor to the storied 40 Series. It was never made available in the United States, instead receiving the 60 Series - a continuation in name and performance standards, but a more indirect descendant that balanced its off-road prowess with on-road comfort. Production of the 70 Series carries on internationally today, some 38 years after its original release.

The 70 Series has been offered in several variations throughout the course of its production, which are distinguished by appearance, purpose, and the model numbers:

• 70-74:  Two-door, short and medium wheelbase.
• 75, 78, 79:  Long-wheelbase variation outfitted as either a pick-up or two-door carrier.
• 76, 77:  Four-door, semi-long wheelbase.

Of course, the 70 Series has been outfitted with numerous engines throughout its long production, but the originals contained either a 4.2L straight 6 diesel (HZ), or a 3.0L I4 turbo-diesel (KZ) engine. This 1994 J70 contains the latter - and more on the particulars in a moment.

The popularity of the 70 Series is on the rise, aided by a slew of factors like renewed interest in classic 1980s vehicles, thriving aftermarket support and general part availability, healthy off-road and Toyota communities, and more approachable importers.

Plus, a general boom in the used car market has expanded interest into what had previously been darker corners of the market, re-introducing buyers to options they may not have considered in the past. Still, we're confident that the 70 Series is still an overlooked Land Cruiser with plenty of room to run as stronger examples continue to hit the market.