Restomod Land Cruiser, LS V8 FJ40, FJ60, FJ62, FJ80

Q: How much does a restomod Land Cruiser cost?

Restomod Land Cruiser builds vary widely depending on the starting platform, the engine choice, and how far the client wants to take the build. A typical resto mod with an LS3 swap, suspension and brake upgrades, and paint generally starts around the same price range as a full restoration and goes up from there based on the scope of custom work.

Q: What engine is used in a restomod Land Cruiser?

The most common choice is an LS V8, with the LS3 being the most popular for the FJ60, FJ62, and FJ80 platforms. For the lighter FJ40 we typically recommend the 5.3 LS. Other engine options are available depending on the client's preference and the platform being built.

Q: Which Land Cruiser is best for a restomod build?

The FJ60 and FJ62 are the most requested restomod platforms because their size and chassis handle an LS swap beautifully. The FJ80 is a close second for clients who want a more comfortable driving experience. The FJ40 is the right choice for clients who want a lighter, more nimble restomod.

Q: Is a restomod Land Cruiser reliable as a daily driver?

Yes. A properly built restomod Land Cruiser is significantly more reliable as a daily driver than an unmodified classic Cruiser. The modern drivetrain, updated brakes, and refreshed suspension eliminate most of the maintenance headaches that come with driving a stock 40 year old truck.

Q: Can I choose the paint color on a restomod Land Cruiser?

Absolutely. You can choose a color from any shade in the rainbow. We've done factory original colors, custom mixed hues, matte finishes, and two tones. The paint is part of what makes each resto mod unique.

Q: Does a restomod Land Cruiser hold its value?

A well built restomod Land Cruiser from a reputable builder holds its value well and in many cases appreciates over time. Quality of the build, documentation, and the reputation of the shop all play a role in long term value.

What Is a Restomod Land Cruiser

A restomod Toyota Land Cruiser combines the classic appearance and character of an original FJ Series Cruiser with modern performance, drivability, and comfort. The exterior retains the unmistakable Land Cruiser look while the drivetrain, suspension, brakes, and other systems can be upgraded for modern driving.

At Land Cruiser Restorations, our restomod builds commonly include an LS or Vortec V8 conversion paired with a modern automatic transmission, along with upgraded suspension, brakes, interior, and other components tailored to how the client plans to use the Cruiser.

Why Choose a Restomod Land Cruiser

A restomod Land Cruiser is for owners who want the character and styling of a classic Toyota 4×4 with modern performance and drivability. Instead of returning every component to original specifications, the build can incorporate a modern drivetrain, upgraded suspension and brakes, custom paint, interior improvements, and other upgrades based on how the Cruiser will be used.

The Best of Both Worlds

A restomod Land Cruiser combines classic Toyota styling with the power and drivability of a modern vehicle. An LS V8 conversion and modern automatic transmission can provide increased horsepower, smoother highway driving, and improved everyday usability while preserving the Cruiser’s classic exterior appearance.

Most Popular Restomod Land Cruiser Builds

The FJ60 and FJ62 are among our most requested restomod platforms. Their classic SUV styling and durable chassis make them excellent candidates for modern V8 drivetrains, upgraded suspension, and braking improvements. The FJ80 is another popular choice for clients who want the comfort and road manners of the 80 Series combined with modern V8 performance.

FJ40 Restomod Builds

For the FJ40 we typically recommend the 5.3 LS engine conversion. The FJ40 is a lighter Cruiser compared to the SUV style of the 60 and 80 Series, and the 5.3 is the ideal match, plenty of power without being overkill for the platform. The result is an FJ40 restomod that is quick, responsive, and genuinely fun to drive.

FJ60 and FJ62 Restomod Builds

The FJ60 and FJ62 are excellent platforms for a restomod Land Cruiser build. Their classic SUV styling and durable chassis pair well with modern V8 power. Our FJ60 and FJ62 restomod builds can include an LS3 V8, modern automatic transmission, upgraded suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes for improved power, handling, and drivability.

FJ80 Restomod Builds

The FJ80 is an excellent restomod platform for clients who want classic Land Cruiser character with greater comfort and modern V8 performance. An LS3 V8 conversion, modern automatic transmission, suspension upgrades, and interior improvements can transform the 80 Series into a powerful and comfortable Land Cruiser suited for regular driving and long-distance trips.

What Goes Into a Restomod Land Cruiser Build

Every restomod Land Cruiser is built around the vehicle and the client’s goals. Depending on the project, we can replace the original drivetrain with a modern LS or Vortec V8 paired with an appropriate automatic transmission for improved power and drivability.

From there, the build can include upgraded suspension, brakes, steering, interior, air conditioning, and other improvements tailored to how the Cruiser will be used.

Exterior finishes can range from original Toyota colors to custom colors and two-tone combinations. Browse our gallery to see examples of completed Land Cruiser builds.

Ready to Build Yours?

Ready to build a restomod Toyota Land Cruiser? Call or text us at 316-633-9902 to discuss the model, drivetrain, features, and overall vision for your project. If you don’t already own a Land Cruiser, we can also help source the right vehicle to start with.

Learn more about our team and process on our Who We Are page, or contact us to start the conversation.

Restomod Land Cruiser FAQs

How much does a restomod Land Cruiser cost?

Restomod Land Cruiser pricing depends on the starting vehicle, drivetrain, and scope of the build. An LS or Vortec V8 conversion, transmission, suspension, brakes, body and paint work, interior, and other custom upgrades can all affect the final cost. Call us at 316-633-9902 to discuss your project and get an estimate based on the build you have in mind.

How long does a restomod Land Cruiser build take?

Most restomod Land Cruiser builds take between 12 and 18 months from start to finish. The exact timeline depends on the series, condition of the starting vehicle, scope of the build, and parts availability. We provide a realistic timeline at the start of each project.

If you don’t want to wait for a complete build, we may have restomod projects already in progress or finished Land Cruisers available for sale. See what’s currently available on our Toyota Land Cruisers for sale page.

What engine is used in a restomod Land Cruiser?

The most common choice for a restomod Land Cruiser is an LS V8 conversion, with the LS3 being a popular option for FJ60, FJ62, and FJ80 builds. For the lighter FJ40, we typically recommend a 5.3L V8. Other engine options are available depending on the platform and the client’s goals for the build.

Which Land Cruiser is best for a restomod build?

The FJ60 and FJ62 are our most requested restomod platforms because their size and chassis work well with modern V8 conversions. The FJ80 is a popular choice for clients who want additional comfort and refinement, while the FJ40 offers a smaller, lighter platform with classic open-top Land Cruiser character.

Is a restomod Land Cruiser reliable as a daily driver?

Yes. A properly built restomod Land Cruiser can be well suited for regular driving. A modern drivetrain, upgraded brakes, refreshed suspension, air conditioning, and other improvements can make a classic Land Cruiser more comfortable and practical for everyday use while retaining its classic character.

Can I choose the paint color on a restomod Land Cruiser?

Absolutely. Exterior color is one of the many details you can customize on a restomod Land Cruiser. We’ve completed builds in original Toyota colors, custom-mixed colors, matte finishes, and two-tone combinations. Paint and finish choices can be tailored to the overall vision for your build.

Does a restomod Land Cruiser hold its value?

Long-term value depends on factors such as the Land Cruiser model, quality of the build, condition, documentation, specifications, and collector demand. A professionally completed and well-documented restomod can be desirable to buyers, but future resale value or appreciation cannot be guaranteed. Learn more about our experience and approach on our Who We Are page.