Time For A New Ride – Jake and His 80 Series Land Cruiser

The start of the Covid-19 pandemic was a strange and uncertain time for the world. My situation was no different. I had only just gotten back to work as a builder after having broken my ankle at the end of January in 2020. Having not worked for a few months, no leave as a sub contractor and persistent bills and living expenses continuing, something had to give. Unfortunately for me it meant I had to sell my 2007 Hilux. An absolute cracker by any measure and a genuine workhorse it was difficult to part ways but with another vehicle available and my only real asset. It made sense.

Fast forward to mid September of 2020 and life, as it does, took an unexpected yet eventful turn, employment at SG Off Road. Having always had an interest in 4×4’s and the industry I was instantly hooked. My only issue – no 4WD. I felt on the outer because of this, all I wanted was to be back in a 4WD. After a few discussions with a few people I realised that it may not be as far away as it seemed. The main issue was working toward something within my budget, closely followed by what sort of fourby I not only wanted but needed to get back into.

I had shortlisted a few cars, namely a LN106/KZN Hilux, 75 Series LandCruiser Ute, 80 Series or 100 Series Wagon. Even as a self proclaimed Toyota man, I was even open to the idea of owning a GQ Patrol. I had waited quite patiently for quite a few months but with money in the bank and my feet getting itchier I knew that it was all coming to a point. Thankfully I had people in my corner (you people know who you are) to stop me from making a rash and hasty decision. In the end it was a case of right place, right time and I was fortunate enough to have a HZJ80 Series LandCruiser fall into my lap. I briefly uhmmed and ahhed before coming to the realisation that I wouldn’t be able to find a better and more reliable vehicle in my price range.

So now to the car itself, a 1995 80 Series GXL Wagon. Fortunately for myself it did come with a few extras.

• ARB Winch Bar

• Safari Snorkel

• Dual Battery setup

• Kaymar Rear Wheel Carrier

• 2” Suspension upgrade

• LED Driving Lights

It’s a more than capable 4WD that’s one of the comfier rides in a car that I’d owned. I took it on it’s maiden voyage up to Craig’s Hut with the work crew, a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Since that trip I’ve been able to add a few things to the car as I get ready to turn it into a tourer whilst keeping it capable of tackling the bush. I’ve added a roof rack, awning, set of mud tyres and a UHF. With a trip to the Little Desert planned for Cup Weekend I’m aiming to add drawers and a fridge. Over time I’d love to add a turbo, just for the extra little bit of power and possibly a roof top tent.
All in all I’m really excited to continue building this Cruiser, with eventual plans to do Cape York and the Kimberley!