Toyota keeps the original front and rear live axles to showcase 1980s engineering durability even after the power upgrade.

Suspension gains a modest 1.5-inch lift and 35-inch tires on beadlock wheels, with a front shackle reversal to improve articulation, all designed to be reversible to return to stock.

Historically, the FJ60 model from 1980-1987 featured a 135-horsepower inline-six, leaf-spring axles, and a boxed ladder frame, underscoring why this restoration blends nostalgia with modern upgrades.

Key structural elements are preserved: the original chassis points, firewall, and overall layout are maintained, with adaptations designed to be as OEM-like as possible.

Toyota frames the project as a restomod with a hot-rod ethos, prioritizing power, drivability, and reliability while preserving the Land Cruiser’s iconic character.

The Turbo Trail Cruiser preserves most of its original exterior and interior, with only subtle updates like a period-correct Silver 167 paint job and a modern JBL audio system with a dash touchscreen, keeping the classic Land Cruiser silhouette intact.

Toyota swaps the original 4.2-liter inline-six for a 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged i-FORCE V6 from the Tundra, delivering about 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque for notably improved performance.

The project sits within SEMA’s tradition of restorations and restomods, appealing to enthusiasts who value a blend of retro charm and modern capability.

The new V6 engine produces roughly 290 kW and 650 Nm of torque, nearly doubling the output of the original powertrain while also improving emissions and drivability.

To fit the new engine, the project uses a compatible five-speed manual transmission paired with a custom adapter, new motor mounts, an altered oil pan, and a bespoke exhaust, all while preserving the vehicle’s original mounting points and firewall integrity.

The vehicle retains the factory H55F five-speed manual transmission and original transfer case, with only a new oil pan added for the engine swap.

The restomod emphasizes off-road capability while maintaining a reversible path back to original conditions, including a lifted stance and larger tires.