The 1978 Toyota Land Cruiser, part of the J40 series, was a rugged and dependable off-road vehicle known for its durability and capability in challenging terrains. It was offered in various body styles, including short-wheelbase (BJ40/FJ40), medium-wheelbase (BJ43/FJ43), and long-wheelbase (BJ45/FJ45). The Land Cruiser was designed to excel in off-road conditions while maintaining reliability and comfort, making it a favorite among adventurers and utility users worldwide.
Engine Specs and Features
Specification
Details
Engine Type
Inline-4 (diesel) and Inline-6 (gasoline)
Engine Codes
2F (gasoline), B (diesel)
Displacement Options
3.0L (2,977 cc), 3.6L (3,576 cc)
Horsepower
105 hp (2F), 85 hp (B engine)
Torque
190 lb-ft (2F), 159 lb-ft (B engine)
Compression Ratio
7.5:1 (gasoline), 16.0:1 (diesel)
Fuel System
Carburetor (gasoline), Direct Injection (diesel)
Transmission Options
4-speed manual, 3-speed manual
Cooling System
Water-cooled
Fuel Type
Gasoline or Diesel
Chassis
Specification
Details
Chassis Type
Body-on-frame construction
Body Styles
Hardtop, Soft-top, Pickup, Troop Carrier
Suspension (Front)
Live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs
Suspension (Rear)
Live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs
Brakes (Front)
Drum brakes (optional front discs on later models)
Brakes (Rear)
Drum brakes
Steering Type
Recirculating ball
Wheel Size
15-inch or 16-inch steel wheels
Fuel and MPG
Specification
Details
Fuel Tank Capacity
18.5 gallons (70 liters)
Fuel Economy (City)
12-14 mpg (gasoline), 18-20 mpg (diesel)
Fuel Economy (Highway)
14-16 mpg (gasoline), 20-22 mpg (diesel)
Combined Fuel Economy
Approximately 13-18 mpg
Dimensions
Specification
Details
Wheelbase
2,285 mm (90 inches) (short wheelbase)
2,430 mm (96 inches) (medium wheelbase)
2,650 mm (104 inches) (long wheelbase)
Length
3,880-4,770 mm (152.8-187.8 inches), depending on configuration
Width
1,680 mm (66.1 inches)
Height
1,950 mm (76.8 inches)
Curb Weight
1,700-2,000 kg (3,748-4,409 lbs), depending on model
Ground Clearance
210 mm (8.3 inches)
Safety Features
Safety Feature
Details
Seat-belts
2-point lap belts (front seats)
Body Construction
Reinforced steel body-on-frame
Brakes
Drum brakes, with optional front discs in some models
Steering Column
Collapsible for impact protection
Glass
Tempered safety glass
Lighting
Standard halogen headlights
Off-Road Safety
High ground clearance and skid plates for underbody protection
1978 Toyota Land Cruiser Interior
Specification
Details
Seating Capacity
2-9 passengers, depending on configuration
Upholstery
Vinyl or cloth (varied by trim)
Dashboard
Simple, functional layout with analog gauges
Instrumentation
Speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge
Steering Wheel
2-spoke design
Air Conditioning
Not standard, but available as an aftermarket option
Audio System
AM/FM radio (optional)
Windows
Manual roll-up
Interior Space
Functional and spacious, designed for practicality
1978 Toyota Land Cruiser Exterior
Specification
Details
Design Style
Boxy, rugged, and functional
Body Styles
Hardtop, Soft-top, Pickup, Troop Carrier
Bumpers
Heavy-duty steel bumpers
Lighting
Round headlights with integrated turn signals
Side Mirrors
Simple metal or black mirrors
Wheels
Steel wheels with optional off-road tires
Paint Options
Solid colors, including beige, green, white, and blue
Current Selling Price in U.S.
Condition
Price Range (USD)
Project or Restoration Car
$5,000 – $10,000
Good Condition
$15,000 – $30,000
Fully Restored / Mint Condition
$40,000 – $80,000+
Rare Models (e.g., Diesel Troop Carrier)
$50,000 – $100,000+
Note: Prices can vary based on condition, modifications, and location. You can find 1978 Land Cruisers for sale in classic car marketplaces like Hemmings, Bring a Trailer, and eBay Motors, where prices tend to fluctuate based on demand and specific car conditions.
The 1978 Toyota Land Cruiser J40 series is a timeless classic, beloved for its reliability, off-road capabilities, and rugged design. It remains a highly sought-after vehicle among collectors and adventurers, with restored models commanding premium prices in today’s market.
