Which 80s Land Cruiser?

[ohhmightykev]

Hey Guys!

I am new to all of this!! I am in the Navy stationed in Spain and really want to get a rig to see the outdoors here. Currently I have a Toyota Corolla and I can’t see much with it but definitely been taking it on small trips so far. I have the amazing opportunity to be able to bring a vehicle back to the states on the Navy dime! I just need to get rid of my Corolla as the Navy will only pay for one vehicle to go back. Another thing is the vehicle has to be at least 25 years or older. My wife and I have 2 young kids age 5 and 2 and we have been looking online at the 80 Series Land Cruisers. We are really hoping to pick up one prior to leaving Spain to bring back. I am not sure which year and motor will be best to purchase, that’s the biggest dilemma we are having currently. I hope you guys can give us some inputs on our first rig we should pick up! We want to do more touring than rock climbing or any insane trails. If You have any other suggestions of vehicles we should look at let us know also! We are open to other vehicles also!
Thank you so much!

 

[Travis 76]

Get the 1FZ-FE motor if possible, or diesel, just make sure the age is correct, the year/month should be on the door sticker. They are great family vehicles and seat up to 8 people. I have a ‘94 here in Nevada.

 

[Exiled]

First of all, thank you for your service!! I would also make sure that A/C is an option, which is not a certainty on Euro-spec Land Cruisers, especially the 70 series. Whether you decide to keep it when you get back stateside or decide to sell it, a lack of A/C will have a big impact.

Also, the import laws allow you to bring in a 25 years old and older vehicle, so we're at 1995 and closing in on 1996 model years (by the time you get back).

There are a couple of Spain-spec 70 series Land Cruisers here in Austin, both are pretty clean but only one of the two has A/C.

 

[Shortpencils]

You can buy a gasser 80 anywhere in the US. I'd be looking for something "exotic" such as a diesel 70, 105, or, in your case, a diesel 80. Typically the import fees, hassle, etc. are the killers for bringing in anything, and you'll be able to sidestep some of that. Some people go to great lengths and expense to bring in non-petrol cruisers and cruisers that are common everywhere but the US. If you find something that is in demand here, but rare, you could easily flip it for a gas 80 stateside, or keep it and have the coolest ride on the block. Condition of course shouldn't be overlooked no matter what you find.