What Engine Came in the 1997 Toyota Land Cruiser?
The 1997 Toyota Land Cruiser came equipped with different engines depending on the market, but it is best known for featuring powerful and durable inline-six options. This model year marked the final production year of the 80 Series in many regions, combining advanced off-road capability with reliable engine choices.
Primary Engine Options
- 1FZ-FE petrol engine – A 4.5-liter inline-six with electronic fuel injection, producing around 212 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. Known for smooth performance and durability, it was the most common engine in North America.
- 1HD-FT diesel engine – A 4.2-liter turbo-diesel inline-six with direct injection, making approximately 168 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Offered in select overseas markets, it delivered excellent fuel efficiency and torque for off-road use.
- 1HZ diesel engine – A naturally aspirated 4.2-liter inline-six producing about 129 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque. Known for its simplicity and legendary reliability, it was favored in rugged, remote regions.
Performance & Drivetrain
- Transmission options – 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, depending on engine and market.
- Full-time 4WD – Most versions came with a full-time four-wheel-drive system and a locking center differential.
- Off-road features – Available front and rear locking differentials, high ground clearance, and heavy-duty suspension.
Market Variations
- North America – Exclusively received the 1FZ-FE petrol engine.
- Australia, Africa, Middle East – Offered multiple diesel and petrol configurations.
- Japan and Europe – Available with both petrol and turbo-diesel options.
Why These Engines Stand Out
- Reliability – All three engines are known for longevity when properly maintained.
- Torque-rich performance – Diesel variants excel in towing and low-speed off-road driving.
- Global parts support – Widely used in various Toyota models, making maintenance easier.
The 1997 Toyota Land Cruiser offered some of Toyota’s most dependable engine choices, ensuring strong performance both on highways and in the most challenging off-road environments.