Just recently in The Journal, we highlighted a devout restorer of older Toyota pickups. Today in the classifieds, we find a similar truck that’s already received extensive work and is ready for the road (or the trail, if you choose to take it off the pavement).
The Pick of the Day is a 1988 Toyota 4×4 pickup listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Umatilla, Florida. (Click the link to view the listing)
“You couldn’t afford it in high school, but you’re successful now,” the listing begins. “If you’re looking for a clean vintage Toyota, this is the one!”
The seller states that the light blue metallic paint has been resprayed, and even the underbody looks fresh. “The overall presentation tells you someone respected this truck. That’s why the sheet metal continues to have an amazing fit and finish.”
Toyota has been an expert at making capable compact pickups for decades. The version seen here first launched for the 1984 model year and received a cosmetic refresh a couple of years later. While marketed simply as the “pickup” in the United States, it was sold as a Hilux in other markets around the world. By the way, the all-new 2024 Tacoma was recently shown to the media and will make its way to the streets soon. Time will tell if it holds up as well as its predecessors like this one.
Power comes from Toyota’s notoriously robust 2.4-liter 22R inline-four motor mated to a five-speed manual transmission. The seller states, “Those who know Toyotas understand that this is one of the hardiest powerhouses around. In fact, this one was refreshed only about 3k miles ago with new gaskets and seals.” The mileage reading of 131,004 is low for one of these trucks.
Moving to the interior, we see a mostly original cab with a few modern updates like a Bluetooth-compatible stereo and R-134A air conditioning. My favorite feature is the old-school crank windows. When was the last time you rode in a vehicle that gave you that analog experience?
“A great opportunity that has all the right investment opportunity while keeping the vintage look you love,” the listing concludes.
The asking price is $18,000 or best offer for this clean 4×4 pickup.
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
