78 Series LandCruiser

The 78-series LandCruiser part-time 4WD workhorses replaced the decade-and-a-half old 75 Series from September ’99.

The 10-model strong range boasted better ride, cabin comfort, safety and performance, thanks to the adoption of the 100 Series LandCruiser’s coil-spring front and new longer-leaf rear suspension, bigger brakes and more suitable gearbox ratios.

The track and wheelbase sizes increased, as did the single-cab cabin length, for improved stability and space.

Revised (and more adjustable) seating, new instrumentation, moulded headlining and vinyl floor coverings were also welcome, as was the diesel engine’s new high-altitude compensator.

Motors are a 165kW/387Nm 4.5-litre DOHC 24V six-cylinder FZJ79R petrol or HZJ79R 96kW/285Nm 4.2-litre six-cylinder diesel, both in five-speed manual-only guises.

The body styles offered were: single cab cab/chassis, single cab utility and 3/6/11-seat Troopcarrier.

The up-spec RV models offered slightly more features.