The used off-roader market boasts a deep bench of previously-loved four-wheel-drive trucks and SUVs, with something to offer at just about every size and price. (Believe us — having to winnow through the entire Internet to find our ideal sub-$10,000 used off-roaders gave us quite a window into the depths of the 4×4 ocean out there.)
But if you’re going to dive into the world of overlanding, why not make it as easy as possible on yourself? This 1996 Toyota Land Cruiser currently up for auction on Bring a Trailer, for example, comes pretty-much tailor-made for off-road living.
Any Land Cruiser, of course, makes for a solid option if you’re planning on driving out past the beaten paths. But this FZJ80-generation version boasts a fair number of modifications that make it an even better bet for diving into the overlanding life. Beneath the surface, changes are few; an Old Man Emu lift kit adds two inches of height to better trample over obstacles and the electrical system has been fortified, but the stock 4.5-liter inline-six, four-speed automatic and full-time four-wheel-drive are all unchanged.
The real fun bits, however, are the camping accessories added on by Seattle’s Adventure Ready. A Rhino-Rack HD three-bar Crossbar rack serves as the foundation for an Alu-Cab Expedition 3 pop-up rooftop tent and 270º awning that stretches over the rig’s aft sectors for added shade when parked. In back, a selection of ARB Outback Solutions drawers hold assorted items, while an ARB 50-quart fridge/freezer and Adventure Ready tailgate cutting board allow you unexpected flexibility in what you eat when you’re far away from the nearest Arby’s. (Don’t worry — there’s also a deep-cycle auxiliary battery with solar-capable recharging capabilities to help keep the food cold.)
It may have rolled off the production line more than two decades back, but the near-mythical Land Cruiser pedigree means these cars can hold their value well. Even with 156,000 miles on the odometer, this ’96 Toyota currently sits at a high bid of $14,000, with one full day remaining. Still, considering all the realms this Land Crusher could open up for you, it would still be a bargain at twice that price.
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