For all the love Toyota gets around these parts for their iconic line of off-road and overlanders like the Land Cruiser, 4Runner, Tacoma, HiAce, and Tundra, it's easy to forget that Toyota is also responsible for some nifty commercial vehicles.

The Toyota Coaster is no exception, serving as a passenger bus in service since 1969. It was built off the Dyna commercial truck platform with some frame modifications to extend the wheelbase and lower the floor, resulting in a more spacious cabin capable of seating 26. In additional to public service, it was a popular light bus for private transportation.

The original Coaster stayed in service until 1982, when it was replaced by the 2^nd Generation. With the new generation came new trim options, which included the EX, EX Saloon, and longer body with increased seating capacity. Additionally, Toyota added an automatic transmission, a high-roof variation, and torsion bar double wishbone front suspension (although the EX came standard with air suspension). You could get your Coaster van with your choice of either a 22R gasoline engine, 2H diesel engine, or 3B diesel engine.

In 1993, the Coaster was again renewed with more modern styling, including the highly-desirable 1HD-T 4.2L turbo diesel engine and advanced features like anti-lock brakes, larger glass windows, and extensive noise reduction.

Is the 1HD-T a Good Engine?

In the early-to-mid 90s, Toyota counted on the 1HD-T to power both the Coaster and the Toyota Land Cruiser HDJ80. It was the first in the HD series of engines produced by Toyota, and was built as a 12 valve, 4.2L straight-6 turbo-diesel. It output approximately 164 hp. and 266 lb.-ft. torque. While it wasn't quite a demon off the line, allowing the turbo to spool offered enough kick to comfortable tackle city streets and highway driving. Additionally, it's a durable, fuss-free, know-no-quit powerplant enjoyed by off-road enthusiasts in the Land Cruiser with minimal routine maintenance to keep it adventure-ready.

Succeeding the 1HD-T engine was the 1HD-FT and 1HD-FTE engines, offering incremental output and improved efficiency.