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1996 Toyota Land Cruiser VX
Highlights
- Former East African Classic Safari Rally support vehicle
- Presented in superb condition for a Landcruiser of this vintage
- Subtly upgraded and reinforced for its rally support role
The Appeal
First held in 1953 to commemorate the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, the East African Safari Rally quickly rose to prominence as one of the most gruelling events around, attracting teams and drivers from all over the world. Today, a ‘Classic’ rally still runs and we’re delighted to offer one of the support vehicles. This 1996 Toyota Land Cruiser played a vital role in running the event for around two years. It was chosen for its legendary reliability and off-road capability and you can’t fail to notice just how great it looks, evocative of yesteryear’s Dakar trucks.
Suitably upgraded and strengthened for harsh African terrain, this would be the perfect candidate for overland expeditions. It’s in superb order for its age, far better than most surviving Land Cruisers which are usually run into the ground. Now returned to the UK, it’s road registered although will require a fresh MOT prior to use.
The History and Paperwork
- Acquired by the vendor’s father, reportedly in Ireland
- We’re informed that the previous keeper used it sparingly, covering minimal mileage
- Odometer currently displays 102,349 miles
- Shipped over to East Africa to be a Classic Safari Rally support vehicle
- V5C present
- Numerous parts invoices from Toyota and several leading specialists including Rough Trax and Four Counties Toyota 4WS Specialists
- Now returned to the UK
- Retains its UK road registration although requires an MOT (expired)
The Condition
- Largely standard inside and out
- Chrome bull bar with period Hella spot lamps (complete with covers)
- Headlamp and underside protection
- Window defectors and boot spoiler
- Heavy-duty towbar and dual electrics
- Period-correct vinyl graphics retained
- Straight, smart bodywork with well-fitting doors
- The paintwork appears in very god order with minimal imperfections visible
- All four alloy wheels present very well and are fitted with BF Goodrich All-Terrain tyres
- Highly original and superbly preserved interior
- The leather upholstery is lightly worn, but does not appear holed or torn
- No cracks apparent in the dashboard
- Very smart original woodwork
- Retains a period Sony double-DIN CD/cassette player complete with cover
- Equipped with factory climate control/air-conditioning
- Tilt/slide electric sunroof
- Additional fold-down rear seats in the boot
The Mechanics
- 4.2-litre turbocharged 24v straight-six diesel engine
- Five-speed manual gearbox
- Equipped with full-time four-wheel-drive, diff locks and low-range
- Accompanied by a collection of spares/accessories in the boot as pictured
- We’re informed that the vehicle underwent several strengthening measures in readiness for its rally support duties
- Extensively prepared mechanically and serviced diligently to endure it remained reliable on the rallies
- New coil springs were fitted, as was a genuine exhaust from Toyota and various other new parts
- The chassis presents very well indeed with no issues apparent
- Two new batteries recently fitted although the vendor says these may need charging as the vehicle has sat unused for some time having been shipped back to the UK and currently without an MOT
- The vendor demonstrates that it runs well and we’re not inform of any known mechanical issues
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]
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