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There’s no denying the hype around the new Ford Bronco this year, especially with the recent rumor mill churning out the possibility of a hybrid drivetrain option. But even with all the excitement, the official unveiling is still months away, and with a rig like this imported 1993 Toyota Land Cruiser LJ70 popping up for sale on Bring a Trailer, it’s easy to forget the pending two-door off-roader from Dearborn, Michigan is on the way.
This Land Cruiser was brought over from France last year, and since the LJ70 two-door model never officially came to the US, you’ll probably be the only one within a few thousand miles with a two-door turbo-diesel Land Crusher. And, as you can see, it’s not exactly in stock trim either: After being imported, custom off-road upgrades were bolted on, like a steel ARB front bumper and accompanying winch as well as LED lights.
The truck has also been raised on an Old Man Emu suspension lift kit to fit the 15-inch wheels wrapped in 33-inch Kumho Road Venture rubber. Lastly, the selling dealer performed basic service and maintenance on the timing belt, water pump, clutch and brakes to bring it up to snuff, mechanically.
Inside, this Land Cruiser is a time capsule from the era before the nameplate went upmarket and aimed for luxury over practicality. The odometer reads 118,000 kilometers (87,000 miles) and the lack of wear and tear on the cloth seats all but confirms it. For a 26-year-old off-roader, the condition of the interior is immaculate. The Blaupunkt Bluetooth touchscreen stereo might be the only aspect of the interior that lets the period-correct interior down, but it’s certainly a welcomed upgrade. Above the modern head-unit lives the factory tilt meter, altimeter, and inclinometer, creating a beautiful (and fitting) technological juxtaposition.
As of this writing, the current bid on this LJ70 is just $12,070, but given its rarity, upgrades and remarkable condition, don’t expect that number to stay this low for long.
