What the hell is an FJ142, you ask? Well, that’s the term for a Land Cruiser that’s part 60-series and part 80-series. More specifically, it’s an FJ62 and either an FJ or FZJ80 mated together to have some newer-school running gear with the classically cool 60-series body on top. And if you’re looking for what’s basically a perfect Land Cruiser, then you’re probably talking to TLX4x4 about it. Their latest build is a truly gorgeous 1989 FJ142 that’s in perfect shape and ready to rip.

I don’t typically love posting about resto-modded vehicles here. I think the market for them is absolutely out of touch, minus a few exceptions (Singer, Icon, Ring Bros, stuff like that). Usually, I see a press release flow my way that talks about a K5 Blazer or a fastback Mustang that has a starting price north of $300,000 while still getting gross Dakota Digital gauges and a cheap-ass Grant steering wheel. Speaking of wheels, almost every resto-mod Defender always has the worst wheel choice, too.

But this FJ142 is done right. Yes, it’s still wildly pricey for what it is, but the level of fit, finish, and detail here is excellent. TLC has mated an FZJ80 chassis to the lovely FJ62 body, but there’s no old Toyota V8 under the hood. Instead, you have a 430-hp LS3 V8 that works perfectly with the off-roady readiness that is the FZJ80 chassis. Of course, that’s upgraded, too, via some Old Man Emu springs, Fox shocks, better brakes, and a set of 33″ all-terrain tires. The TLX4x4 fits a 40-gallon fuel tank, upgrades the front and rear bumpers, and adds a Warn winch.

The cabin looks like a Land Cruiser, just elevated with nicer materials. I’m talking about hand-stitched leather, billet handles, TLC’s own gauges, and an upgraded sound system that includes Apple CarPlay via the JVC head unit.

I mentioned it was expensive. These start at $250,000. That’s a downright silly amount of money for an old Land Cruiser. But the market is crazy right now. Someone just spent $170,000 on a stock low-mileage unmodified example. Back to this TLC version, though, as I do think it’s very expensive but the level of care and detail applied here is the reason these builds stand out from other companies trying to do the same thing. These are a level above, and were I a man with more means, I could understand why someone would put one in their driveway.