With 286,000 miles, a clean title, and a lifetime of careful stewardship, this 1996 Toyota Land Cruiser is the kind of well-loved, well-sorted 80 Series that overlanders keep an eye out for. Finished in its original Red Pearl over tan leather, lifted 2.5 inches, and riding on big Cooper mud terrains, it’s been used exactly as Toyota intended: road-tripping the West Coast, exploring national parks, and doubling as a reliable camp rig. The seller has invested significantly in drivetrain repairs over the last few years, and it now benefits from extensive recent service, a long list of refreshed seals, and a fully rebuilt front differential and transfer case.
If you’re looking for an honest, capable, adventure-ready Land Cruiser under $20k, this one deserves a close look.
- Adventure-Tested, Road-Trip Proven: This 80 Series has covered serious miles—Tacoma to Texas and everywhere between—pulling duty as a camper and adventure rig. It’s been used regularly, responsibly, and exactly the way Toyota intended.
- Classic 80-Series Formula: Powered by the legendary 4.5L 1FZ-FE inline-six with full-time 4WD and high/low range, it retains the durability and capability that made the 80 Series an icon. No lockers, but all heart.
- Tasteful, Purpose-Built Mods: A 2.5" Old Man Emu lift, Cooper STT PRO mudders, ARB front bumper, upgraded stereo with display, backup cam, and full WeatherTech mat suite improve capability and livability without going over the top.
- Significant Recent Mechanical Work: The big items are done: a full rebuild of the front diff and transfer case, complete rear axle replacement, and fresh seals, ignition components, crank pulley, PCV system, and speed sensor seal. It’s leak-free and current on service.
Powertrain & Capability
- Engine: 4.5L 1FZ-FE Inline-Six
- Transmission: Automatic
- Drivetrain: Full-Time 4WD (No lockers)
- High/Low Range: Yes
- Recent Mechanical Service Highlights:
- Full front differential rebuild
- Full transfer case rebuild
- New rear axle
- New crankshaft pulley
- New crankshaft seal
- New oil pump seal
- New PCV valve + hose
- New distributor cap, rotor, and spark plugs
- New speed sensor seal
- All new filters
- Currently no leaks
Modifications & Upgrades
- 2.5” Old Man Emu lift
- Cooper Discoverer STT PRO LT315/70R17 mud-terrain tires
- ARB front bumper
- Upgraded stereo w/ display panel
- Backup camera
- Integrated door speakers
- Microphone for hands-free calling
- WeatherTech mats throughout, including cargo area
Interior & Comfort
- Tan leather in strong condition
- A/C functioning
- Backup camera + modern audio
- Large, flat cargo area set up for camping
Flaws & Known Issues
- Fading paint on hood
- Worn steering wheel
- Passenger seat motor needs replacement
- Occasional cold-weather window hesitation
- Noticeable road noise & vibration at higher speeds due to lift and tires