Toyota Motor Corporation first introduced North America to their pickup trucks in 1964, with the stateside launch of the Toyota Stout. Featuring a 1.9L 3R engine, a ladder frame chassis with independent coil spring front suspension, and leaf spring rear suspension, the new compact truck was designed to handle and ride like a car.  Hoping to compete with the recently released small pickups from Datsun, Toyota sold only 4 units in the first model year. A slight redesign meant enlarging the cab for full-size Americans, but the Stout’s days were numbered and it was replaced by the Hilux in 1969. Fast forward to 1978  and the introduction of the 3rd generation Hilux, known in America simply as the Toyota pickup. One year later the automaker rolled out the first 4WD version of the model, featuring a dual transfer case and a solid front axle with leaf springs. In 1981, a larger 2.4L 22R engine was introduced, making 95 hp and 122 ft-lb of torque. These elements combined to create a formidable compact off-roader that could also provide economical transportation. Our feature vehicle, found here on eBay, proves that you don’t need a full-size rig to have fun in the mountains.

While not exactly a powerhouse, the legendary 22R engine is known for its dependability and economical gas mileage. The cast-iron block is topped with an aluminum cylinder head, featuring hemispherical combustion chambers. The engine bay of our feature vehicle appears to be clean and tidy, and the ad states that a significant amount of maintenance has been done in the last year including a new brake master cylinder, Weber carburetor, fuel pump, fresh fluids, and more. Hooked behind the engine is a 5-speed manual overdrive transmission, allowing the owner the pleasure of rowing their own gears. The RF1A gear-driven dual transfer case allows for a lower overall gear ratio, useful when exploring off the pavement.

The interior is as one would expect of a nearly forty-year-old vehicle, with acceptable wear and tear. The driver’s seat needs reupholstering and while the passenger side is in good shape, it would likely be redone to match. In the center console, you will find what appears to be a mini Igloo cooler, a rare option according to the ad. The dash is showing some cracks, easily remedied with a dash cover, and the steering wheel looks to be in great condition. There’s also a vintage Kenwood cassette stereo with aftermarket speakers in the doors.

At the back of the truck, you’ll find that the rear bumper is missing, but a replacement shouldn’t be difficult to find. The truck sits on American Racing Outlaw II rims, wrapped in 31″ BFG All-Terrain tires. With its perfect stance, colorful graphics, and playful demeanor, this truck is ready to take its new owner exploring, on or off the pavement.