What Is the Toyota BJ46 and How Rare Is It?
The BJ46 is a diesel-powered variant of Toyota’s 40 Series Land Cruiser, produced between roughly 1981 and 1984. It features a 3.4‑liter 3B diesel engine, five‑speed manual transmission, power steering, factory air conditioning, and a medium‑wheelbase chassis that sits between the shorter BJ40 and long‑wheelbase BJ45. It was primarily sold in markets outside the United States, often right-hand drive and fitted with full‑floating axles and other expedition‑ready components.
Features That Make It Stand The
- Diesel 3B engine delivers strong torque and exceptional longevity
- Five‑speed gearbox for improved highway and off‑road versatility
- Power steering and factory A/C in many models, luxury for its time
- Unique medium‑wheelbase design balances maneuverability and cargo space
- Built for export markets with durability in mind
Why It Is So Rare
- Production numbers were extremely low relative to other 40 Series variants
- Most were sold in countries like Japan, Australia, and New Zealand; very few ever reached the US or European markets
- Recent data suggests only around 15 to 16 BJ43‑BJ46 units have changed hands in the past five years, with zero currently listed for sale in many major markets
- Market records show only about a dozen or so publicly documented sales in recent years
- It is widely regarded as one of the rarest 40 Series models ever produced
Estimated Value Range
- Typical sale prices range from £17,000 to £30,000 (or $20,000 to $40,000) depending on condition, originality, and market.
- Some fully restored or highly original BJ46 examples have sold for over £48,000
- Average values hover near £22,000 in current markets
Who Typically Bought the BJ46?
- Buyers in Australia and Japan valued the BJ46 for its balanced size, rugged diesel engine, and comfort
- It was picked by adventurers, rural professionals, and fleet users who needed a reliable but practical expedition‑capable SUV
- Enthusiasts today prize its factory equipment and relative rarity