Toyota Land Cruiser's 'Project Texan' demonstrates the FJ40's ideal characteristics after undergoing a V8 engine changeover
Legacy Overland, a renowned builder based in Greenwich, CT and Portugal, has unveiled its latest custom restomod project: the 1978 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 named Project Texan. This vehicle is a testament to the company's commitment to blending the charm of vintage off-roaders with modern performance and luxury.
Extensive Upgrades and Customizations
The heart of Project Texan is a Chevy 350 small block engine, replaced from the original. This new engine comes equipped with Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), a March chrome pulley kit, and necessary modifications to suit the FJ40's unique specifications. The vehicle's powertrain has also been upgraded with a TR4050 5-speed manual transmission, replacing the original 4-speed. The rebuilt axles, steering knuckles, tie rods, and power steering ensure a smooth and responsive drive.
The suspension of the vehicle is ARB/OME with Bilstein heavy-duty shocks, providing an optimal balance between off-road capability and on-road comfort. The exhaust system, completely custom designed for this installation, complements the engine's performance while maintaining a distinctive sound.
Luxurious Interior and Exterior Upgrades
The interior of Project Texan features beige leather upholstery with black piping and diamond stitching, extending to the roll bar, jump seats, center console, shifter boots, and steering column. Gray carpet with black edge trim covers the floors, adding a touch of elegance. Sound deadening and undercoating have been added to enhance the driving experience.
The exterior of the vehicle retains its working-truck scars, a nod to its heritage, but with a modern twist. It is Raptor-coated jungle green with black accents, and features split-style LED headlights and rear lamps for modern illumination with period-appropriate looks. An ARB front winch bumper with a jerry can rear carrier has been added for increased utility.
Modern Components and Amenities
The electrical system, gauges, radio, antenna, LED lighting, and air conditioning have all been upgraded with modern components. A Rockford Fosgate sound system with barrel speakers mounted on the roll bar provides an immersive audio experience.
Cost and Origin
While Legacy Overland does not publish specific pricing for their custom restomod projects, the extensive work involved in Project Texan suggests a high-end price tag. Similar high-end restomods by specialist builders often come with significant price tags, reaching into the high five figures to six figures range.
Project Texan started its journey as a 1978 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 from Texas, and has since been transformed into a masterpiece of modern restomodding.
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The luxurious interior of Project Texan showcases a style that blends the charm of vintage with modern lifestyle, boasting beige leather upholstery, a Rockford Fosgate sound system, and sound deadening for enhanced comfort. On the exterior, technology introduces split-style LED headlights, Raptor-coating, and an ARB front winch bumper, while still preserving the original car's working-truck character. This custom restomod, born from a '78 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 in Texas, demonstrates Legacy Overland's commitment to sports performance, both on and off the road. [1] [2]
