The 40-series lineup included the short wheelbase FJ40 (soft top and light van model), the middlewheelbase FJ43, and the long wheelbase FJ45. The FJ28 had three variations, a soft top, hard top and light van model. The FJ43 came in only soft top and hard top models.

1955 - 1960 Toyota Land Cruiser 40/45 series

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 1955 - 1960 Toyota Land Cruiser 40/45 series
  • Horsepower: 115@3600
  • Torque: 2200
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Models

The FJ45V was a van type and there was also a pickup truck model for export.

The side body panels on the 40-series were straight rather than curved, making the vehicles more roomy inside. Both front and rear bench seats had room for three people. The FJ40V was styled as a top-heavy box-like extension of the panelling on the soft type.

To reduce the added weight, resinous materials were used for the roof instead of steel panelling. The high roof was designed for improved visibility, al so enhanced by an additional rear co rner window. The unique styling proved very popular.

The FJ43 had a 3-speed manual transmission column shift and a 2-speed transfer lever switch on the instrument panel. This left more room on the floor, which, when added to the seat configuration of one narrow driver's seat with a bench-type passenger seat, made it possible to carry three people.

While retaining the tough Toyota Land Cruiser image, the 40-series began adding passenger-car features.

The top LX grade of the BJ42 featured a crash pad in the dashboard to protect passengers in the event of a collision. It added a switch panel for cosmetic appeal, a digital clock and a tachometer. Zebra pattern seat fabric was standard on the LX grade, and it had resinous panelling on the walls as well as carpeting on the floors.

The FJ43 had a whe elbase 145mmm longer than the FJ40, and the extra room was allotted to an extended luggage compartment. The rear gate opened out from the centre, and its lower half was made of steel.